Shannon Notes Week
ending
It's not often that in the space of 24 hours you relinquish two significant
trophies, but such was the case last weekend when we bowed out of both the Munster
Senior cup and the Transfield Cup. Glorious sunshine on both days ensured a
fast pace to the games, and probably the lack of match practice for both the
seconds and the seniors was the telling factor in the outcome.
Cork Constitution came to Coonagh with a highly experienced side which
contained a significant number of contracted players, which was a daunting
prospect for our lads who were lining out for only their second competitive
game of the season. But such is the nature of the fixture list.
It appeared from the early stages that we were going to be in for a torrid
afternoon, especially when Con crossed the line, but while it did take a while
for the lads to get up to speed with the pace, they certainly began to match
the intensity. The second half brought further improvement and parity when Dave
Quinlan burst over for a trade mark score and at that point there was no
doubting that we had the measure of the visitors. A sustained period of
pressure for Cons gave them the lead again, but we did have the chance to draws
level again when we were camped in the corner desperately searching for another
equaliser. It didn't come, and the rather lopsided 21-7 scoreline after Con
crossed for a very late try, did not reflect the true nature of the game. Cons
did deserve to win the game, and it's a pity such a big clash came so early in
the season for our lads and mores the pity it was the
The AIB league is fast approaching and next Saturday we travel to Blackrock and
the club are running a supporters coach to the game .I can be contacted on 087
2717163 for bookings.
On Sunday the Seconds lined out in the Transfield cup against UL/Bohs and again
a strong opposition denied victory. 20-13 it finished up and as with the
seniors it looked as if the visitors to Coonagh would make easy work of it ,
but again a highly spirited display ensured we were capable of winning. The
pacey UL/Bohs backline provided the greatest threat while our scrum was well on
top. Through slick handling UL/Bohs went ahead and it seemed they had the
ability open us up at will however a gutsy response from our lads saw them claw
their way back before half time. A gifted try for Bohs in the second half at a
lineout proved disastrous and they went on to claim the spoils. All in all this
was a reasonably positive performance from the seconds in only their second
game and things can only get better. This Sunday they play Garryowen in a
friendly at 2.30 in Dooradoyle.
The U/20's opened their season when they travelled to play a tournament in
Newbridge and acquitted themselves fairly well qualifying for the semi-finals.
They begin their
The thirds also start Gleeson league action on Saturday when they play
The U/18's had an excellent win over UL/Bohs in the league by 34 points to 5.
Although we were missing several players due to inter pro duties and schools
tied those that stepped into the side played magnificently. In total six tries
were scored with Conor Cunnae crossing twice. Aidan O'Donovan, Neil Mc Donnagh,
Shane Mc Namara and Darragh O'Doherty also got in on the try scoring action.
This Sunday they play
The U/13's have such large numbers that this season we can field two teams
which is fantastic. Last Sunday the blacks beat Ennis while the Blues were
defeated by UL/Bohs.
They are back in action on Sunday when they play Garryowen in Dooradoyle while
the U/16's host Kilfeakle in a friendly.
The Committee would like to remind anyone that drives through Coonagh village
to adhere to the speed limits and be conscious that they are driving through a
residential area.
Another reminder to those who bring their dogs to Coonagh that at all times the
dogs should be on a lead and please remove any foul that they produce,
especially on the pitches.
The Club secretary reminds people that ticket packages are still available and
with the Magners league games in
Andrew Mc Namara
Shannon RFC PRO
087 2717163
amcnamara@eircom.net