It was a bit of a mixed bag for the Club over the weekend, with two wins and two defeats. As the nation collectively shed a tear over the impending departure of one of the game’s greats, there was the serious business of two cup campaigns, and the tail end of two league campaigns to be dealt with.
The 2nds faced Clontarf in Castle Avenue on Friday night in the 98FM Metropolitan Cup, and unfortunately were beaten 29-8 by a very strong side. The home side dominated the battles up front, and forced their way over for four tries, with our lads fighting till the end. After a great run of wins recently, this was one step too far, but no shame in defeat against a very good Clontarf team.
The 4th XV travelled to Merrion Road on Saturday morning knowing that a win of any sort would clinch a play off final spot against Clontarf. With the referee pulling out late, Wanderers and Nure agreed to a debutant ref, as Brian O’Sullivan stepped into the tightest pair of shorts available and into the breach. Nure ran out 23-15 winners in a high tempo game, and even the home side had to admit that the ref did a great job!
The 5th XV took a weakened side to face NUIM Barnhall, and were beaten 35-0 by the home side. A tough day at the office, but one which has little bearing on their league position. Their attention now turns to their relegation playoff against Greystones.
The 20s rounded off the weekend, with a 45-0 win in Templeville Road over St Mary’s in the McCorry Cup. A hugely impressive performance was marked not only by attacking flair, but also by the defensive tenacity of our lads. The scoreline probably doesn’t do justice to the home side, and the match ended on a low note with a serious injury to the St Mary’s captain. We wish him well in his recovery.