That Old Back Line Magic !

Clondalkin 16

AIB 8

Jonny Stapleton

Three sensational back row interventions enabled Clondalkin thirds to make it three wins from three games last Saturday afternoon.

Firstly man of the match Ross Fitzgerald and flank partner Graham Gallagher produced a combined try saving hit when Clon were on their line and the ropes with the scores at 6-3 deep into the second half.

Gallagher’s blind side replacement, Stephen Kenny then produced a unique and miraculous try of the season contender to ease home tensions with 15 minutes to go.

Before underage graduate Fitzgerald capped of another vintage open side performance and ensured the result with a fine individual try that displayed his pace, awareness of space and kicking prowess!

Clon made a bright start to what was a tough and hard fought tie but got no reward for their endeavour failing to turn pressure into points. The hosts failed to add width to the ball at the appropriate times and ironically had no problem sending four early penalties attempts wide of the mark.

And not content with failing to punish the visitors short comings and indiscretions Clondalkin’s most sadomasochist squad set about self harming.

For the third game running the unbeaten side gave up field positions, points advantage and wasted potential try scoring opportunities by conceding needless penalties.

Out half Andy Tyndall did eventually find his range and sent the ball sailing over the cross bar much to a crowd which boasted more first and second team players than a Tuesday or Thursday training session.

However, but for a gutsy if somewhat scattered and last gasp defensive display Clon could have went behind as half time approached.

AIB did manage to put a penalty in the bank to make it 6-3 at the turn.

The weather worsened but Clondalkin’s approach to the game improved after the restart.

In up-the-jumper conditions Clon began to move the ball and attacked out wide. Matthew ‘Veggie’ Brocklebank benefited and almost crossed the white wash but the speedster ran out of gas five metres from the line.

And after coming close to extending their lead the home outfit were minutes later in danger of going behind.

With a game devoid of a structure AIB began to threaten the home line but former underage stars Gallagher, Fitzgerald, Kev Dunphy, Ged Nugent and Alex Molly along with Simon Cumminsky, Chris Murray and Dave Moody hit the bankers were it hurt most getting one over for all those most effected by the rescission ensuring the score board showed a Clon profit in the process.

Gallagher and Fitzgerald in particular excelled defensively holding the opposing number eight up as he dove over the line.

And just when it appeared the third string would have to employ all their resolve to just to hold on for victory Kenny literally turned defence into attack and settled the tie.

The livewire and aggressive flanker registered a massive hit that forced the opposition winger to fumble, his team mate gathered the ball only for Kenny to steal it from him before racing home from deep within his own half.

Not to be out done Fitzgerald then registered his second try in two games after a delightful chip and chase to make irrelevant the visitors late touch down.

Added by admin September 14, 2010 (10:01PM)

This article hasn't been commented yet.

Have a comment? Please register