Shannon Notes weekending September 12th 2009

It was quite apparent after Last Saturdays Charity Cup semi final that there's still a bit of work to do on the training field for our seniors. It's been quite a while since Young Munster could celebrate a 12 point victory over Shannon at senior level, but I don't think anyone leaving Greenfields would argue the case that the Cookies were not the better side on the day. Much quicker and more forceful at the breakdown and very solid in set pieces, Young Munster raced into an early lead and never really looked back. Despite a promising start we failed to match the physicality of the home side and at times were guilty of wasteful possession. Although we trailed by 17 points heading towards the 30 minute mark, the reasonably strong breeze in our faces meant that territory in the second half should've been more plentiful. However, what was already an uphill struggle was made all the more difficult when we conceded possession whilst in an attacking position and with oceans of space to utilise, Young Munster scored a breakaway try. It's not all that often we are forced to turn around a 22 point deficit without scoring ourselves, and although Tadgh Bennett kicked a penalty before the break it was always going to be a tough task given the ferocity of Young Munster's efforts. A glimmer of light came in the opening foray of the second half when Garry Mc Namara barged over for a converted try , but it was a glimmer that never exceeded a mere flicker. It is disappointing to relinquish the charity cup, but bigger prizes are at stake in the coming months. We may be at disparate ends of the AIB league but an away game against Clonakilty in the Senior cup on Saturday will no doubt be another big task, especially after last Saturdays performance. It's our second time making the long journey to the west Cork club in the senior cup and memories of a fairly hefty defeat last timeout may surely spur Clonakilty to a big performance. Kickoff is at 2.30 and extra time will be played if applicable.

The U/21's had their first outing of the season when they played Garryowen in a friendly and although losing to the light blues it was a most useful exercise for the lads. It was a severely depleted panel that travelled the short distance to Dooradoyle with a substantial number of the squad unavailable due to Munster duties and two or three others unavailable for a variety of reasons. Those that did play, done well and gave the management food for thought as the competitive games begin this weekend. They travel to Rosbrien to play Old Crescent in the North Munster league with a 2.30 kickoff.

Our Seconds are due to play Transfield cup on Sunday, but at the time of writing neither opponents nor venue can be confirmed.

Underage training is in full swing and the number of players heading to Coonagh on a Sunday morning continues to astound, but there's always room for more. Any parent wanting to get their son involved can come along to Coonagh on Sunday Mornings at 10.30.

The women's and girls sides are also back in full swing and a very effective committee has been instigated this season. Headed by Leonard Cassidy we now have senior women's committee and girl's underage committee and as always new players are always welcome (with or without experience). Contact details can be found on www.shannonrfc.com