Pat Lawler Tournament

Three games went in to extra time and all were very close with the Garryowen Sligo game turning into a real battle seeing Garryowen getting there narrowly in the end of extra time.

By:  Mick McLoughlin, UL Bohemian RFC

Cub Final:  Wexford Wanderers 3 Galwegians 0

The Shield Final was a close run match till early in the second half when Garryowen ran in two quick tries which secured a well earned victory. The Cup Final saw two Clubs slug it out neck and neck till half time. Wexford throughout the competition were very impressive and in the end proved too strong for a very gallant Galway side. All in all this was very successful and enjoyable event.

Three clubs make their debut in the Tournament – Crosshaven, New Ross and Wexford Wanderers. Before the presentations were made the Event Coordinator Mick McLoughlin took the opportunity to thank all the club members involved particularly, Mike Clancy for arranging the referees and tenting etc, Martin Hanley for getting the grounds in order, Ed Irwin for organising the Catering, Mike Doyle for acting as MC for the day, Adrian O’Sullivan for official photography, Tony Quilty for the Event programmes and the many pitch and traffic marshals who did a marvellous job.

It very nearly turned into an all Wexford Cup Final but Galwegians pull away from New Ross in extra time in the semis. Garryowen and Wexford Wanderers were presented with their trophies by Patricia Lawler. Garryowen captain Mike Sheehan accepted the Shield trophy and Peter Barry accepted the Cup. Our Senior Vice President Frank Malone thanksed all those involved particularly the many referees who participated and the personnel of the St. Johns Ambulance services. He also thanked the three club doctors who were available to us: Eamonn Kavanagh, Maurice Rowsome and Matt Kiely. All in all a mighty day was had by all and the organising committee would like to take this opportunity to thank all the clubs for attending.