U14 Rugby Killarney V Corca Dhuibhne: Sunday 14th Oct 18.
Match report by Ian Harrington
Last Sunday in glorious conditions in front of the stunning backdrop of the Dingle peninsula and an enthusiastic and warm local support, Killarney RFC U14s secured a dramatic last-gasp win with a final score of 31 – 30 in a highly entertaining game played in a great spirit by both sides.
Both teams displayed good ball handling and running skills with flowing rugby and plenty of scores. It was Corca Dhuibhne who scored first with a try after 10 mins and Killarney had to defend staunchly against a well-coached and organised side. Killarney’s outhalf Pierce Slattery scored some pivotal tries; he was aided by great vision from scrumhalf Donal Hickey along with individual running from Stephen Dalton and Josh Coffey to keep the pressure on the Corca Dhuibhne defence.
Ultimately, the high success rate of Finn Kennelly’s kicks at the goal to convert Killarney’s tries proved the difference between the sides in the end. Excellent defensive performances with great tackling from Cathan Harrington, Daire O’Brien, Gearóid Sugrue and Gavin Walsh kept Killarney in the match.
With time almost up, the score was 24-30 in Corca Dhuibhne’s favour, when a breakaway involving Donal Hickey, Cathan Harrington and ultimately Pierce Slattery resulted in a try under the posts from 50 meters. With the clock in red, Finn Kennelly stepped up to slot the conversion against the wind to secure the victory in the last action of the game.
Special mention must go to the warm and sporting welcome we received as always from an impressive Corca Dhuibhne side.
Final Score: Killarney 31 Rugbaí Chorca Dhuibhne 30
