Garryowen FC Notes w.e. 6th April 2008

 

A 34-17 bonus point victory over Old Belvedere at Dooradoyle last Saturday consolidated our position for the AIB league plays offs. The first 7 minutes saw the scorekeeper earn his crust as the visitors scored under the posts after 45 seconds. The attending journalists had difficulty keeping up with what unfolded in the next few minutes. Inside centre, Conan Doyle was on the end of a Kingsley grubber to the right corner at the City end and he just got the touchdown after the ball bobbled around and deceived the cover. That was in the fourth minute. No sooner had the game restarted when Keith Earls raced inside and out from all of 60 yards for a truly fine score. After that, we appeared to have the greater control although ‘Belvo were no slouches. A fine Kingsley effort near the posts and a further drop goal for good measure made the light blue denizens breathe more easily. Conor Kilroy kicked a penalty and two conversions to establish a comfortable 23-10 lead. The illusive fourth try didn’t arrive until the 57th minute and again Doyle applied the finish when racing clear from 30 yards to score in the corner. A couple of Kilroy penalties ensured we had enough in the tank as a late ‘Belvo converted try might have yielded even more if against a less committed home defence. It was a fairly busy day at Dooradoyle. As soon as the final whistle sounded, the U18’s from Old Belvedere took on a Garryowen FC scratch side. The college selection prevailed 12-5 in an open and entertaining game. The “man of the match award” went to  Mark Melbourne although Frank McKenna, Damien Varley, Conan Doyle and Keith Earls were other notables worthy of selection. Mark was presented with his prize at our customary post match “supporters meet the players” forum in the warmer confines of the clubhouse. Mick Coughlan (IRFU) launched the Tag Rugby season which commences on 22nd May. Dooradoyle is the official IRFU venue for Tag Rugby in Limerick. To participate in this immensely popular and social competition, please contact Mick on 086 8233360. The club commemorative book was also launched which chronicles the successes of our teams last season in Ireland and in France. Copies available at our final AIB league game v UCD on 19th April or direct from JJ Gunning on 086 6795996. In the Munster J2 quarter final played in miserable conditions on Sunday, our 3rd XV just got the better of Cork Con but only after a titanic struggle. Finnian Chesser got the vital breakthrough in the 60th minute and Diarmuid Waters landed a fantastic conversion from the touchline. One score was always going to be enough on a soggy pitch and Waters also added a penalty to ease his side 10-0 into the semi final v Ballincollig. The day was horrible and great credit is due to both teams for a fine sporting game.