Clontarf (7) vs Clondalkin (13)

J5 League

Article by Jonny Stapleton



Clondalkin's flying fourths will be looking to make it five successive J5 victories when they take on St Mary's for the second time in two weeks this coming Saturday.

Victory away to Clontarf last weekend ensured Clon retained second spot in the competitive league, a position they could further cement with a win over Senior Club Mary's in Gordon Park this weekend.

A super Peter Fitzgerald effort ensured a lethargic visiting effort went unpunished and an under performing Clondalkin grinded out one of there more unimpressive wins. Clon dominated the majority of the first half put only had a Tyndall, who was making his second row debut, penalty to show for their efforts. The back line did manage to cut open the home defence with some slick play on numerous occasions but were continually let down by the final ball.

Tarf to their credit did posses a sturdy pack and their battle hardened veterans attacked the fringes regularly. However the like of Frank Lynam, who is enjoying a rugby renaissance in the back row, Brennan, Collie McHugh and Tyndall put in the tackles to ensure Clon were never troubled. The home maul attacked to some success the poor visiting line out but in truth Clon never looked like conceding. Clon again dominated territory and possession after the turn, but once again failed to finish off any of the try scoring opportunities they created.

And it looked like it might stay that way until the talented Fitzgerald had his say. The pace full back took a lovely line of the out half leaving the near by cover in his wake before brilliantly side stepping his opposite number to touch down under the posts. Tyndall converted and Clon went 10-0 ahead.

The hosts instantly raised the tempo and only a brilliant Philly Byrne intervention prevented them mauling over the line. However, Byrne only delayed the inevitable as after a number of attempts the sturdy Tarf pack rumbled over the line.

With just three points separating the tie and in danger of loosing a game they should well and truly have had wrapped up by half time Clon went in search of a cushion.

They came close via Fitzgerald, Stephen Kenny, Donal Kennedy and Brennan but needed a last minute Tyndall penalty to extend their lead and ensure their seventh league victory.

Meanwhile Clon thirds fell to the same opposition at the same venue while the first will be looking to build on their impressive wins over Navan and Portarlington with a win away to Clane this weekend.

Clon Ladies Team also put in an impressive performance over the weekend but despite a brave display fell by 20 points to a Blackrock team that boasted two Irish internationals.

Added by Murts February 15, 2010 (4:18PM)

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