Newbridge (5) vs Clondalkin U 16s(48)

Challenge Match 10 Feb 07 Jonny Stapleton

ATTEMPTED comebacks seemed the theme of the most recent Six Nations weekend, but unlike both Ireland and Italy Clondalkin Rugby Club’s U-16 side successfully reversed a deficit to register an emphathic and very impressive friendly win last Saturday.

The Gordon Park natives found themselves trailing Kildare counterparts Newbridge and under pressure early in the first half, but turned the tie completely around to register a stylish away victory.

The ever improving youth side finished the game just two points short of the half century after touching down no fewer than nine times.

But after a very indifferent start a rout never looked likely.

The hosts dominated the early exchanges and took a deserved lead after some aggressive and direct play from their front eight.

They looked odds on to increase that lead over the next few minutes but the Clondalkin defense held firm and it wasn’t long before they leveled proceedings.

Captain Bobby Smith touched over from close range benefiting from a powerful Tom McGrath surge.

Nial Nolan then scored a trade mark wonder try dancing through the entire pack before side stepping the winger and out pacing the full back for good measure.

That score ended a nervy few moments for the visitors and gave them the confidence to go on and win the game.

Alan Doyle, who along with Ronan Jones and Nolan was dominating midfield, registered a career first try to leave it 19-5 at the turn.

Clon enjoyed complete dominance after the break, their pack became an unstoppable rucking force and with clean ball their backs became equally unstoppable in their pursuit of trys.

Nolan went on to register a hat trick and gifted fellow North Midlands representative team mate Dave Jebb an easy score, whilst McGrath and Wesley Smith both passed the white using the brawn over brains method.

The move of the match, however, was finished of by Killian Hynes, the winger used his blistering pace to finish a fine passing break, but there were shouts for the TMO when the linesman inexplicably raised his flag for a foot in touch.

A cup tie with Clane faces Clondalkin next and if they are to produce anywhere near their second half form they should progress easily to the next round.

Added by Murts February 13, 2008 (4:27PM)

Have a comment? Please register