It’s not often that you get an opportunity to beat one of the top
sides in the country twice in the one season, but when you do, you grab that
chance with every ounce of energy. The AIB league may, from time to time,
produce high scoring classics, but the frequency of low scoring classics in
horrendous conditions would be akin to a hot Irish summer. Cork Constitution
are a formidable side with plenty of experience and last Saturday’s 3 nil
victory proved that our cup semi final win was no fluke. Granted we did have to
defend our line on numerous occasions, but boy, that defensive wall was at
times heroic, especially as Cons laid siege towards the end of the game. Wave
after wave of attack was not only stopped, but man and ball was driven back.
One of the biggest cheers of the day came at the death when one such siege was
lifted with an enormous boot and soon after the final whistle came and an even
bigger cheer erupted around Coonagh.
The conditions deteriorated as the game progressed but both sides
served up a game to warm the hardly souls who lined the terrace. When Andrew
Thompson slotted over a 23rd minute penalty few would have
imagined that it would be the only score of the game, but that it was, despite
the valiant efforts by Con. Every one played their part in this win and while Fergal
Walsh was named AIB Man of the match it could have been several others. Andrew
Finn had a stormer on the wing and on a number of occasions his reliving
long range kicks gave a morale boost to the lads. Magnanimous as always in
defeat, Cork Con may well have felt a draw would have been a fair result
especially as they had two chances to bring parity towards the end of the game
but the penalty attempts were missed and victory was ours and with it a
repossession of top spot In the league. It may well be a slender lead and
there’s no doubt that we will have to maintain high standards if we are to stay
on top. Saturday’s performance was far from flawless and as always improvements
in certain areas will be worked on, but what cannot be questioned is the
determination and heart that the lads displayed. It was great to see Trevor
Hogan back in the club colours and although he plies his trade in the
capital, he still remains a great
Also on Saturday, our U/20’s prepared for the resumption of
the AIL with a comprehensive win over Thomond and this Saturday they play the
first of their three remaining games against UL/Bohs in Annacotty at 11.45. The
lads lie in second place in the table, trailing UCC by just three points and
lead UL/Bohs by six points so Saturday’s game is of great significance so I
would urge all our supporters not travelling to the North to give the lads a
boost.
The weather played havoc with all other
fixtures last weekend including the seconds friendly against
The thirds head out to Bruff for a
friendly on Saturday with a1pm start while at underage the U/18’s play
UL/Bohs, the U/16’s play Garryowen,both at
12pm, the U/13’s play Bruff at 11. All are league games and take place
in Coonagh, subject to pitch conditions. The U/14’s entertain Boyne RFC
in a friendly.
Club registrar, Ger Mc Closkey has
asked me to mention that if any member has yet to receive their membership
book, than give him a call at 087 2745926 and he will rectify the matter.
Andrew Mc Namara
Shannon RFC PRO,
amcnamara@eircom.net
087 2717163