Shannon Notes weekending April 25th 2009
Two years ago against the same opposition, Dolphin, at the same stage of the season we had more or less the same result, a bonus point win. Back then though, the post match dressing room was one of despair and regrets with heads buried in hands and some home truths spoken. The feeling that day when we lost out on a semi final spot on a slender points difference, was one that laid the foundations for what transpired last Saturday in Coonagh. No one who was part of the team back then wanted to endure the same empty feeling, and it was those thoughts that drove the squad in the days leading up to the game. The permeations may have seemed complicated to many, but within the management we had a fair indication that one game in Dublin was crucial. The fact that so many teams playing against those at the upper end of the table had little to play for certainly showed, and as the updates came in we knew that our point's difference would come into play. A bonus point win would have sealed our place for sure, but as the game transpired it didn't look likely, so we were watching St Marys rack up the points against Terenure. The updates were coming thick and fast, calculators were deployed, until eventually, with a little under five minutes remaining the true nature of the task came to light. Having already crossed for three tries, and leading a superb Dolphin side narrowly, nothing but a fourth, and winning bonus point try would secure our semi final spot. It was a fact unbeknown to many of the spectators, but once the message got to the team, it was the be all and end all of our season. To say that anyone associated with the side could have predicted the next few minutes would be untrue, but what was known is that every player would give their all for the prize. Marcus O'Driscoll was introduced and almost immediately made his presence felt. Frankie Mc, the old dog for the road so to speak, made the searing break and then we had Kelly. Stephen that is, already a major contributor with an assist for John Clogan's try and a five pointer of his own. A chip, a chase and that was it. He may never score a more crucial try, and that try propelled us to second place and another crack at a semi final against Garryowen. Dolphin were worthy of their pre match position of second place and while initially disappointed with how Saturday went for them, I'm sure they will reflect on a top eight position as a reasonable achievement.

As for our lads, amidst the initial euphoria it was quickly pointed out that there was no silverware on display last Saturday. No one needs reminding of the enormity of the task facing us this weekend. Garryowen in Coonagh last season won't bring back any happy memories, but things have moved on, and I think our young squad has matured exponentially since then. While it may bore or even infuriate some, but once again it's the same old faces in the semi final. Con's by virtue of a superior points difference topped the table despite losing one more game than Shannon and Garryowen, while the Clontarf put paid to an all Munster quintuplet. All four clubs have the same goals and ethos, more or less, which may go some way to explaining the regularity of their appearance at penultimate stage.

Coonagh will once again see a large crowd attend the much anticipated semi final rematch. As it was last year we have a Traffic management plan in operation on the day. Fortunately we have once again received the generous co operation of the Direct Route consortium and will have access to the construction road for the new tunnel. Access to Coonagh will be via the Clonmacken roundabout on the Condell road from 1pm and no match traffic will be allowed through the Coonagh village after this time. Signs will be erected and Stewarts and Guards will be in place, so please adhere to any instructions given. With a 2.30 kick off we would advise people to arrive early and perhaps car pool with your buddies in order to minimise the volume of traffic.
If Saturday's sweet victory wasn't enough, Tuesdays Lions announcement brought further pride to the club when Jerry Flannery and Alan Quinlan were announced as Shannon's 4th and 5th Lions players. It is a tremendous honour for the players and their family and we are fortunate to be able to share in that honour. Not since 1993 when Gallimh adorned the famous red jersey have we had a lion in Shannon, so for two to come on the same trip is fantastic. Indeed the whole of the Limerick rugby fraternity are rejoicing with the inclusion of five players from city clubs. Congratulations are extended to the colossus and inspirational figure of Paul O'Connell on his captaincy along with Keith Earls and David Wallace. It's great to see our neighbours Thomond get recognition for their mammoth contribution to the career of Keith Earls. On the down side it was a bit disappointing that Marcus, Peter Stringer and John Hayes didn't make the initial party, but you never know, there's a lot of rugby to be played between now and then.
In general, it was a very good week for all of Limerick Rugby and we also congratulate Young Munster for near miraculous maintained their Division 1 B status and to Old Crescent for their top four finish while Thomond survived Division two admirably. Long may the limerick Flag be flown high and proud.
Our own U/18 ladies rounded off a great season when they won the prestigious Tom Fahy Memorial blitz in Clonmel. Six Teams took part and after some great rugby , our girls made the final against the hosts and their efforts were rewarded when they scored the only try of the game. Our underage girl's rugby has grown rapidly this season and with results like this , and our senior ladies gaining All Ireland success , will only increase the interest so congratulations to everyone involved.
Underage is winding down, but not before some very important cup games take place. On Friday evening the U13's Play Garryowen in Dooradoyle and the U/14's play Richmond in the canal bank. Should the 13's win , then the final is on Monday evening. On Saturday the U/12's compete in the Brian Fitzgerald Blitz hosted by St Marys in Corbally and on Sunday the U/16's are at home to Thomond in the semi final at 11.30 and again if they should advance the final takes place next Tuesday.
Tickets for the semi final of the Heineken cup will be distributed to successful applicants on Monday and Tuesday evening next in Thomond Park between 7.30 and 9pm. Please be advised that due to the obvious demand not every member will receive the allocation that they have applied for. With Munster rolling to further success, the demand for season tickets for next years campaign will surely exceed that of this seasons, and with that in mind the club is now taking bookings for our member's allocation. The package includes Heineken cup group matches and the Thomond park Magners league games. As an incentive, a reduced price for those Members that pay in full prior to August 31st will see Category A tickets cost €350 and Category B costs €300. After that date the cost will increase to €400 for Cat A and €350 Cat B. We would ask members who are interested to contact Tadgh Crowe immediately and secure their application with a deposit.
Finally our annual Golf classic takes place in Shannon Golf club on May 15th. Against the backdrop of difficult financial times the subcommittee have borne economic circumstances into account and have reduced the entry fee for a team of four to €300. Individuals can also partake at €75 and this includes participation in our customary on-course barbecue where refreshments will also be available and a meal after playing. All great value and for bookings Ger Mullane can be contacted at 087 2541915 or e-mailed on gmullane@shannoncoiledsprings.ie.
Remember, Saturday in Coonagh 2.30. We need your support.