Shannon Notes October 20^th 2007

For a change, it was a happy camp returning from Belfast last Saturday. We had to endure an all too familiar finale to the AIB cup game against Belfast Harlequins in Deramore Park before we could look to the next round, as once again the home side looked as if they would snatch victory at the death. The script for games between these two sides has been uncannily similar for the last four occasions we have meet in Belfast; we start well, take control, second half comeback by Harlequins. Home side win in the last few minutes; but this time round the lads dug deep and their resolve held firm and it was they who snatched a dramatic win in the dying minutes. High drama indeed.

It was probably no more than we expected, but nonetheless we can do without such circumstances. Our excellent start to the game began with the first of Andrew Thompson’s four penalties. It was added to by a Cain O’Connor try and before the 20^th minute had elapsed we were 16-0 up. All going well and even when Harlequins reduced the score to 16-3 at half time there was no indications of what was to materialise.

The second half saw us receive two rather harsh sinbinnings, and that was the kick-start that Harlequins needed. They scored a converted try which gave them confidence and then as the game closed out another came from a mistake and they took the lead. Been there, done that was the cry from their supporters. Well not this time was the response. In a mature and patient fashion we got back to their territory and engineered a penalty which Tommy knocked over. It wasn’t one of our better performances, but for character alone in those dying minutes it was a superb show. The serious rugby has well and truly started and continues this weekend with the ODM Munster senior cup. Reigning kingpins of Club Rugby Garryowen will come across town to Coonagh for what’s sure to be a cracker of a game. Kick off is at 3pm.

Our second XV began their league campaign with an impressive win over Young Munster in Coonagh on Sunday. Played in summer sunshine the game was entertaining throughout and Young Munster put up a battling performance, especially in the first half. It was however, an effort in vain as the lads raced into an unassailable lead as the second half progressed. Each of our four tries were impressive, all coming from their backs. With the breeze to their backs it was Young Munster who made all the running in the opening period and went into the lead with two penalties. The eventual outcome looked most unlikely during the first half and despite Richie Mullane crossing for a try; it was still the visitors who looked the more comfortable.

They added to their lead with a further penalty before the half time break, but the game turned very much in our favour as the second have progressed. We took the lead when Stephen Garvey raced to the line and then it was Johnny Paradise who crossed after some rampaging running from Brian Meade. We were now pretty comfortable and handled what little resistance Young Munster offered with much more confidence than that of the first half. The final try came from Dave Barry which was personally sweet for the scrum half as it was against his former club. Shane Mullally scored his second conversion which brought the final tally up to 24-9.

It was a very encouraging start for the lads and they’ll certainly want to keep it up when they face Thomond this Sunday in Woodview at 3pm.

The thirds suffered their first Gleeson defeat when Garryowen beat them by 18-13. It was a battle of two excellent sides that will no doubt cross swords again this season. Mark O’Brien was his usual productive self while Graham Culliton played well also scoring two penalties and a Conversion. The league is a long way from being over the lads and I’ve no doubt they’ll bounce back this Saturday when they play Richmond in Coonagh at 4.30.

What a weekend it was for U/12’s who travelled to Ealing for their annual tournament. Not only did the 46 players represent the club with pride and distinction, they produced scintillating performances and their endeavours were rewarded with a clean sweep of trophies. Three Shannon teams took to the field, with two sides playing in the one section. Magnificent throughout, all three teams remained unbeaten, but they did have serious challenges posed to them by the host club in all sections. In fact, in one such game between ourselves and Ealing, the sides could be separated, and after extra time and sudden death, it came down to the toss of a coin and lady luck was on our side. All three sides were deemed winners in what was a superbly run tournament. In total, 104 people travelled, and with the organisational skills by the tour committee exemplary, it was a trip that will live long in the memory of those that travelled for a long time. Hearty congratulations to everyone involved.

It’s back to local matters this weekend for the U/12’s as the Blacks are away to Thomond and the Blues are away to Newcastlewest.

The U/18’s were rather unfortunate to draw 5-5 in their league game away to Bruff last Sunday. They lead throughout but a late try from the home side split the points on offer. Andrew Graham was our try scorer on the day.

This Sunday they are at home to Old Crescent at 11.30. Other underage fixtures this weekend sees the U/13’s away to Old Crescent and the U/14’s play Young Munster in a friendly.

The AIB league is only a mater of days away and our first game sees us travel to play newcomers Old Belvedere. A supporters Coach is being organised by the club and we would love to see a big support for the lads on the opening day and it’s a support that the lads will greatly appreciate. The Coach will leave Thomond Park at 9pm and will cost only €10. I can be contacted on 087 2717163 for bookings and names will also be taken at the senior game this Saturday.

Andrew Mc Namara

Shannon RFC PRO

087 2717163

amcnamara@eircom.net

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