Club Notes: Week Ending 03.11.13

This week’s club notes come from Clonmel, Cobh, Kilfeacle and District, Midleton, Nenagh Ormond and Waterford City rugby clubs.

Click here for Clonmel Club Notes

Click here for Cobh Club Notes

Click here for Kilfeacle & District Club Notes

Click here for Midleton Club Notes

Click here for Nenagh Ormond Club Notes

Click here for Waterford City Club Notes

Click here for Shannon Club Notes

Clonmel RFC

Courtesy of:- Paul Condon, Club PRO

Munster Junior League Division 1

Following our away win over near neighbours Kilfeacle the previous week, there was no Munster Junior League action over the bank holiday weekend with all the teams taking the opportunity to rest the aching bodies and re-charge the batteries in anticipation of the next wave of matches.

After the opening three league games, the Clonmel firsts currently lie in second spot on twelve points, one point behind table toppers St.Marys from Limerick  in the 14 team division one table. Our next opponents are Kanturk currently in fourth position on eleven points. The Kanturk game is at home and needless to say, the big focus for the home side is in maintaining the good start to the league campaign. Kick-off on Sunday is at 2.30pm in Clonmel.  

Munster Junior 2 League:
The Clonmel 2nd XV also had a rest day over the bank holiday weekend and now eagerly await the home clash with Waterpark. Clonmel currently top the five team section C of the league with Waterpark in second sport so the next encounter will be a big game for both sides.  Fixture details have yet to be confirmed with the game schedule to be played this weekend in Clonmel.

Womens Munster League Group A:
Rounding off senior squad activities, again no games took place last weekend in the Women’s Munster League. Clonmel play host to St Senans on Sunday next with a 1pm kick-off. This will be only the second outing for the ladies after their first game away to Thurles. Spirits are high in the ladies camp and support is very encouraged for this first home game of the season for the ladies. 

East Munster U16 League:

After a good away win over Carrick the previous week the Clonmel side went down to a heavy defeat to Dungarvan in Clonmel last Sunday. Dungarvan were strong from the off and ran in five unanswered tries against the Clonmel side. The final score was 03-29 in favour of Dungarvan.

Halloween Party Friday 1st Nov 6.30pm

6.30 pm Kids V Parents (Tag Game Allegedly?)
7.30pm – 9.00pm Disco-Fun Halloween Games – Food & Entertainment .Fancy Dress
Our annual minis Halloween rugby game and party takes place this Friday night. This is a really big night for the Kids, they get so much satisfaction of playing against their Parents/Guardians and coaches, So please throw on a pair of boots and tracksuit and join in the fun, even if you just stand there and take a few Tackles from the kids, You will enjoy it
There will be no training on Saturday 2nd  (Coaches are normally nursing their injuries after the kids get some playful revenge !!!!! )

New Sponsorship deal signed.
Clonmel Rugby Football Club is delighted to welcome local firm Clonmel Waste Disposal as the clubs main sponsor for the next three seasons. Clonmel is a fast developing club who are always looking to improve its facilities but more importantly provide the necessary coaching skills to allow all age groups within the club, from Minis to Seniors, fulfil their potential.

Clonmel Waste Disposal Ltd is a thriving business in the local area and having met with the club officials, were delighted to support the club’s ambition to provide the facilities and tools necessary to make Clonmel RFC a very successful club.

The club is greatly appreciative of the support of local business and looks forward to working with Clonmel Waste Disposal in the upcoming years in achieving our goals. In past years Clonmel Waste Disposal have been sponsors of the annual Tag Rugby tournament and are delighted to now become the main sponsor for the club.
 
Upcoming Fixtures:

– U14s:  No league game scheduled
– U16’s: No league game scheduled.
– U18’s  No league game scheduled
– The 2nd XV are home to Wateropark in the fourth round of the South Munster Junior 2 league. Time to be confirmed.
– The Ladies XV are home to St Senans on Sunday, November 3th. Kick-off is at 1pm.
– The 1st XV are home to Kanturk  on Sunday November 3th in the fourth round of the Munster Junior League. Kick-off at 2.30pm 

Changes and updates to fixtures will be notified on the Clonmel Rugby Club Facebook Page, on twitter @ClonmelRFC. and on the club website. 

Clonmel U16 v Dungarvan

Cobh Pirates RFC

Courtesy of:- Liz Cotter, PRO

Great weekend results:

U14s continue great start to season with another great win over Cork Constitution RFC with a scoreline, 20-10 to Pirates.
Bobby Kahn, Matthew Soan, Sam Baricaua & Jim Keavney all scoring tries…
Cian Lynch, Cathal O’Dea & Olan Farrell also put in a great display to ensure the 14s remain unbeaten for season 2013/14

Well done to players and coaches and keep up the great work lads !
U16 had a great away win over Muskerry RFC, winning 23 to 5 Three new players Matthew McCarthy ,Cormac Durnin and Paidi Kearney played very well in what was very poor weather condition, so well done to all….
Great start guys….keep it going…
Juvenile Fixtures: Saturday 2nd
Mini
u6 – Training at 11am
U7, U9 & U11 away to Bandon
U8, U10 & U12s Blitz at home to Dolphin and Mallow
U14 League at home to Fermoy
U16 League at home to Midleton
U18 League at home to Crosshaven

Adult Fixtures: Sunday 3rd
Ladies Development League  Home v Thurles RFC, Paddocks, KO 1pm
MJL Div 1   Home v Kilfeacle & District RFC, Paddocks, KO 2:30pm
J2L    Away v Old Christians RFC, Rathcooney, KO 12:00

Best of luck to all competing teams

Other Club Notes:
The Juvenile Section are doing the ‘Clothes for Recycling’ fundraiser again this season. We will gratefully accept bags of clean old clothes, or any textile material this Saturday at 11am in the Paddocks – and again the following week. Many Thanks for your continued support.

Kilfeacle & District

Courtesy of:- Denis Wade, Club PRO

Ulster Bank All Ireland Junior Cup Round 1
Our Lady’s Boys Club    14
Kilfeacle and District R.F.C.  30
On Saturday 26th of October at 2:30p.m. at The Sportsground in Galway refereed by Paul Haycock, Our Lady’s Boys Club from Galway took on Kilfeacle and District in a clash between two sides who are chasing their first ever All Ireland Cup win. In the Connacht League, OLBC are joint first after having lost just once in five games. They come into this competition in much better form than last year and with the league’s Top try scorer in Conor Mulligan they have the fire power. By contrast Kilfeacle and District have stuttered as of late, losing our last two league games and badly needing a win to steady the ship. Unfortunately it was hardly champagne football weather but both teams applied themselves creditably in slippery conditions. On the day the castlist for the nautical O.L.B.C. who reside by the coastline included Mike Burke, Paul McCreanor and Ger Fahy, with James Moran, Gareth Clarke, Willie Cullinane, Shaney Connors and Dave Reilly in the pack. Ciaran Coyle and Donncha Carey in the halves with midfield shipmates Dave Prior and Conor Mulligan. Noel Farragher and Darren Griffin were minding the coastlines and Dave Dooley at fullback. Paki Curran and Sherief Marzouk cover the frontrow, Sean Connolly second row/loose, Conor O’Donavan and Harry Dowling the backs. The travelling band of players who arrived to confront them had an ensemble list which included Simon Barry, Tom Doyle, Stephen Flood, in the engine room in behind roaming loose were Alan O’Mahony, Diarmuid O’Donnell, Ger Luby, Jack Sullivan and  Cormac O’Donoghue. Gavin Hueston, Diarmuid Carr, Packie Burke, Charles Walsh, Jonathan Corcoran, Pat Ryan, Brian Nugent directing from fullback, were in the chorus line apologies back line behind them dancing and skipping their way through the opposition. The understudies on the day included Josh Featherstone, Brian Leahy, Ricky Witney, Gary Noonan and James Ryan (Salmon).
Truth be told in the last two games played by Kilfeacle and District at times it looked like we  didn’t want the win as much as the opposition, doubtless that wasn’t the case but that was the way it looked. On Saturday 26th of October at 2:30p.m. at The Sportsground in Galway it never looked that way as the hunger and desire amongst the ‘Boys in Blue’ was palpable. It was obvious from the kick off in the manner in which Johnathan Corcoran claimed the ball without regard for his own safety. He secured possession but in doing so suffered damage to his back and ribs which meant his performance in this epic production had prematurely ended and understudy Josh Featherstone was called into the lime light. Johnathan had fallen in battle bravely flying the Kilfeacle Battle Standard. The Kilfeacle Battle Standard did not stay lying on the ground and on the day it was picked up immediately by (the ever retiring) Alan O’Mahony, who was to play the staring role in this performance. He rallied the troops around him and each and everyone of them, to a man, answered his call to battle. However Kilfeacle and District weren’t going to have it all their own way this wasn’t a Fairytale nor was it a Thriller more like a Gritty Drama as Dave Prior starting the way he wanted to finish, for O.L.B.C.  with a try under the posts for seven-nil with 12 minutes gone. Finally in the 32nd minute Kilfeacle took centre stage and Gavin Hueston kicked a penalty to make it 7-3 to the hosts. This score spurred Kilfeacle into action and we started using space well against the Boys Club backline and Brian Nugent crossed the tryline on our fourth attempt, 11 metres in from left hand touch. The conversion kick was missed with 90 seconds remaining on the clock and 8-7 it stays at halftime the visitors ahead by one.

With three minutes of the second half gone Kilfeacle are up by four with a handily-struck 38m penalty and we remain hot on attack. With sixteen minutes gone in the half and Kilfeacle performing well as a unit, the visitors use width again and yet again Brian Nugent joins the line to create an overlap and goes over for his and our second try 15m in from the right touch. Much to Gavin Hueston’s dismay 16-7 stays unchanged, as the conversion attempt is drawn away left. Halfway through the second half and O.L.B.C. were  nine points off the pace. O.L.B.C.’s defence was holding strong but were getting too much practice tackling. Kilfeacle and District were being awfully selfish with the ball, nobody ever told us ‘sharing is caring’. There was twenty seven minutes gone in the half when Diarmaid Carr scythes through four tackles from thirty five metres out to play a captain’s role and score a well deserved try. Gavin Hueston’s kick is good and with thirteen minutes left it’s 23-7 to Kilfeacle and District. On the half hour mark it is 23-15 courtesy of a Donncha Carey clearance, caught on the run by Mulligan 45m out in full stride, Our Lady’s Boys Club are back in the game and can see a glimmer of light. That glimmer of light disappears when Cormac O’Donoghue slams the door shut by waltzing through midfield to score under the posts. Gavin Hueston has his easiest kick of the day to finish the scoring at 30-14 and seal the victory.

Kilfeacle would like to thank everyone who travelled on the day and wish Our Lady’s Boys Club the best for the rest of the season. Our next league game is a tough away game to Cobh Pirates on the 3rd of November. The team as ever are proud and humbled by the amount of support they receive and hope that their supporters will continue to come along and support the "Boys in Blue".

Seconds win in the Gleeson league beating Garryowen.

Kilfeacle and District R.F.C. 23
Garryowen R.F.C.           22

On Friday night the 25th of October at 8:00p.m., Kilfeacle and District R.F.C.’s seconds welcomed Garryowen to Morrissey Park for their first outing in the Gleeson League. Both sides approached the game in a good frame of mind and displayed plenty of endeavour and the game contained a lot of free flowing play and was very entertaining for the small crowd of spectators that were there. Kilfeacle won the toss and elected to play against the wind for the first half. Garryowen started with the win at their backs. The vast majority of the first half was played in the home sides twenty two and after three minutes Garryowen were seven points up after being gifted a try by some poor tackling and disorganisation. This pattern was to continue for the first twenty minutes and after fifteen minutes Kilfeacle were a further five points behind. In the twenty first minute Kilfeacle and District managed to break out of their own half and earn a penalty which Mark Bourke kicked to give Kilfeacle their first points of the game. The home team’s pack consisting of Ian Kelly, Ricky Whitney, Tadgh O’Donnell, Patrick Finnan, Bill Donovan, Gary Noonan, Stephen Quirke, Pierce Breen, Richard Hayes, Alan Kiely and Patrick Noonan were finding it hard to gel as a unit and were misfiring in the lineout but were slowly coming to terms with Garryowen in the scrums. Because of this the backs consisting of Michael Fitzgerald, Mark Bourke, Brian Leahy, Brian Roche, Bryan Nugent, Mike O’Connell, Keith Bourke, John Peters and Kieran Ryan were getting very little ball so only once in the whole of the first half did Kilfeacle break into the Garryowen 22. But when they did they made it count and an extreme team effort saw Pierce Breen, who gave a man of the match performance, touch down the ball for an unconverted try, it must be said against the run of play. The score line read 12 points to 8 in favour of the visitors. Four minutes later Garryowen scored another penalty to widen the gap but for all their possession and territorial advantage the visitors found it very difficult to build up good phases of play and their endeavours were plagued with handling errors. Then in the last play of the half Garryowen scored and converted another try to bring the halftime score to 22 points to 8. Little did anyone think that the second half would be scoreless for Garryowen or that the second half would be dominated by Kilfeacle and District.

During the half time break both coaches communicated their message to their charges. Tony Cooney and Aidan Gennery did a lot of talking to their charges who in turn did a lot of listening and what was said and what was heard made a difference.  The home side started the second half well and used the wind to their advantage however they were now playing better as a unit and after ten minutes started to come to grips with the conditions, their opponents and most of all each other. They started to build good phase play but every time the made it out of their own half any error or misplaced kick saw the ball return over their heads to relinquish any ground gained. In the twenty second minute the Kilfeacle side had eleven phases of play ending with an expertly performed offload in the tackle by Bill Donovan to release the backs. The combination of Michael Fitzgerald and Brian Leahy released Brian Roche who finished a lovely run under the posts to provide the easiest of conversions for Mark Burke. The score now read 22 – 15 Kilfeacle were within a converted try of Garryowen after being pummelled in the first half. Now Garryowen were on the receiving end but it seemed that no matter what Kilfeacle threw at Garryowen that they were the match for it. Garryowen were happy to defend their lead and it was obvious to all present that they were happy if they could keep what they had and soak up the pressure. Everyone was now aware that one score could win or lose it. In the thirty fifth moment of the second half came the moment that changed everything, an excellent kick by Keith Burke, off his left leg out, of his own twenty two, under pressure ended in a lineout for Kilfeacle and District in the oppositions twenty two. Seven phases of play later Pierce Breen touched down for try in the corner. Mark Burke’s conversion attempt was to tie the game. It came back off the posts and Garryowen remained two points ahead with three minutes to play. Now Kilfeacle’s pressure was starting to tell. With only one minute left on the clock the Garryowen defence, which had been so miserly up to this gave Mark Bourke his last kickable attempt at goal. Which he converted with aplomb to the delight of the hardy home support. Garryowen to their credit put in an almighty effort in the remaining minutes but their opponents and the time were against them and the target was just a bridge too far. Finally the referee sounded the full time whistle to the dismay of Garryowen and the joy of the home side.

After the game Tony Cooney, second team coach said, "It took us too long to come to grips with the conditions but in the second half we showed that we could play and were very unlucky not to score more. We had the capability and the desire to win and a very resolute Garryowen defence held us out when many more couldn’t and they deserve praise for that. To Garryowen’s credit they were unlucky not to be further ahead at half time and if they had converted some of those first half chances it would have been a different game. I am delighted for the squad as it was a squad effort and special mention must go to Aidan Gennery for the coaching he has done with this group of players, it has brought the standard of play up several notches. I believe that full commitment from everyone on Friday nights is essential, especially now when we have this first win under our belts!"

Kilfeacle were happy with the team performance and would like to thank Garryowen for the game, which was played in the correct spirit.

Under 14s win in the East Munster league.

Kilfeacle and District R.F.C.    19
Clanwilliam F.C.           16

On Sunday 27h of October, Kilfeacle and District R.F.C.’s Under 14s welcomed Clanwilliam to Morrissey Park in the East Munster league. The inclement conditions made it a dour affair but to their credit both sides approached the game in a good frame of mind and displayed plenty of endeavour. We thank Clanwilliam for a game played in good spirits and wish them the best for their season.

Training still going strong.
We are delighted to announce that the training for the underage/younger teams continues every Friday. If you missed last week’s training do not fear, as the place to be is Morrissey Park, Kilfeacle, every Friday night. If you enjoy team sports in healthy surroundings with experienced coaches, great facilities and loads of fun then Morrissey Park is the place to be Friday nights.

Midleton RFC

Courtesy of:- Jason Boyle, Club PRO

Midleton 11 Suttonians 9

After a wet morning, the weather cleared to a sunny afternoon at Townspark as Midleton welcome Suttonians for the third round of the Ulster Bank All Ireland League.  You wouldn’t have thought that as Suttonians get the game underway events would unfold to make this a most memorable encounter.  From early on it looked like Midleton would be heading to a comfortable win, but that was to be far from the case. 
As the game starts Midleton quickly gather the opening kick and return the ball back to the Suttonians half.   Midleton are then penalised for going in off their feet.  Play is now in the Midleton half as Suttonians attempt to drive forward with a kick over the top that goes over the dead ball line.  About 5 minutes played at this point and it’s a scrum to Midleton.  Midleton clear and play is back to about halfway, Suttonians mount an attack and some good forward play sees Midleton on the defence, Suttonians force the penalty and with just under 10 minutes played the first scoring opportunity falls to the Suttonians fly half; Adam Martin.  He takes the kick from out to the left and easily puts it over – Midleton 0 Suttonians 3.
Midleton mount an attack on the restart and are rewarded with a penalty just inside halfway and over to the right.  Midleton fly half Christian Walker attempts a long-range kick but puts it wide.  The score stays Midleton 0 Suttonians 3. 

With about less than 15 minutes played, Midleton full back Diarmuid O’Sullivan puts in a great tackle and wins the ball, quickly recycled by Midleton the ball is moved across the pitch and winger Diarmuid Rohan is in for a try at the corner.  With the conversion missed the score is now Midleton 5 Suttonians 3. 

The game restarts and O’Sullivan gathers, kicks and brings play back to half way.  Midleton are up quickly and putting the pressure on forcing a penalty.  This time Walker splits the posts to bring the score to Midleton 8 Suttonians 3. Midleton are now looking dangerous and eager to push on.  At this point it is looking like Midleton are going to have a confortable game and an opportunity to put up some good scores.

The game restarts and Suttonians mount an attack, Midleton defend well but knock on, the ref plays advantage and Suttonians gather and kick to the corner.  Midleton win the line out and clear bringing play back to the 10m line.  Another lineout – Suttonians win and attack again, Midleton defend but are penalised for not releasing.  A chance now for Suttonians to close the gap from in front of the posts and Martin delivers.  Midleton 8 Suttonians 6.

Midleton restart and immediately go on the attack. Great play sees a line out to Midleton on the Suttonians 10m line. Midleton win and a great driving maul pushes Suttonians to their line.  Midleton then win a penalty and it looks like try number two is in the making, however the touch judge has spotted something and, on conferring with the Referee, the penalty is reversed and Midleton Prop Brierly is harshly punished with a red card for an alleged stamping incident.  Midleton are now down to 14 men with just over 20 minutes played. 
Suttonians clear but then it’s a scrum to Midleton for a knock on at the lineout from the penalty. Suttonians win a penalty off the scrum and take play into the Mildeton half. Suttonians maul from the lineout hoping to take advantage of the numbers difference but a knock on sees a Midleton scrum with about 30 minutes played. Midleton then win a penalty and that brings play back to around the half way mark.  
The Midleton team appear galvanised by the loss of Brierly and are putting Suttonians under pressure at every opportunity.  Midleton attack again, a long kick down to the Suttonians 22 and the fullback Conor Lennon, calls the mark. Midleton push on again attacking and get a good driving maul going from which a drop goal attempt is missed.   Again Midleton attack, even though its 14 versus 15 there is a pure determination in the Midleton team that keeps pushing them forward.  Midleton are constantly attacking, winning a great turnover and then forcing a knock on.  With seconds left in the half Midleton then win a free, Midleton tap and go and race for the line, it looks like we are in for the second try but the Ref brings play back for a Midleton knock on.  Scrum Suttonians on the 5m line.  Midleton pressure again, Suttonians clear and that’s half time.

The second half gets underway with Christian kicking short and Suttonians awarded the scrum.  Suttonians attack now and play is soon at the Midleton 5m line.  Suttonians, seeking to capitalise on the 1 man advantage, are frustrated by the vigour and strength of the Midleton defence.  Midleton give a penalty though and Suttonians decide to take the points.  Midleton 8 Suttonians 9.

Christian restarts for Midleton and the ball is out for a lineout to Suttonians.  Midleton are relentless now and attack again winning a scrum in the Suttonians half.  It has to be said; Suttonian forays to the Midleton half are few and far between at this point despite the numerical advantage.  Midleton’s attacking strategy pays off with another penalty and a chance at points – Christian kicks and Midleton are back in front Midleton 11 Suttonians 9.
Suttonians restart, Midleton gather and go hunting again, kicks are traded for what is eventually a lineout to Midleton just inside their own half.  The next 15 minutes are spent battling for ground, tired bodies at this stage on both sides and the injury count starts to rise, yet Midleton are relentless in defending the slimmest of leads. 

Its around 25 minutes in now to the second half, Suttonians again mount an attack but are again frustrated by the Midleton defence giving a penalty away and an opportunity for Midleton to go on the attack.  Midleton fly-half Christian is penalised with a yellow – Midleton are now down to 13 men – those left on the pitch are fighting hard and still trying to push forward.  Midleton win a penalty but the shot is wide.  Still Midleton 11 Suttonians 9.  All Suttonians need is a penalty and with Midleton down to 13 they are pushing hard for it. 
About 10 minutes to go and its pulsating stuff, how Midleton can appear like 15 with 13 on the field is a mystery but they are doing it.  Play is kept in the Suttonians half and they are unable to open up the Midleton defence.  Christian returns to the field and a collective sigh of relief goes up from the supporters as Midleton are back to 14 men.  Suttonians attack again and win a scrum just inside the Midleton half from which they try to mount an attack in the final minutes of the game but it comes to nothing and the ref blows for full time.

To see it was to believe it, over 60 minutes with 14 men, 10 of that with 13, the joy was there on every players face as Midleton held on to win.  Credit where it is due, if ever a team showed heart and soul putting bodies on the line and fighting for their club then it was at this game.  Undoubtedly one to remember in the early stages of this competition and one that tells a lot about the commitment and resolution of this team to want to win.  Congratulations to them all from 1 to 20 and to their coaches for a great game.

Nenagh Ormond RFC

Courtesy of:- Eithne Darcy, Club PRO

Senior XV
ur Senior XV took on Sunday’s Well last Saturday in the third round of the All Ireland League. The lads were confident going into the game after having secured two bonus point wins in the first two rounds while Sunday’s Well were lying at the bottom of the table after two fruitless matches in their opening fixtures. However, Sunday’s Well were a tough nut to crack and their game plan, coupled with the slippery conditions, meant that Nenagh were unable to execute the free flowing rugby we have come to expect from them.

The Well defence was good and Nenagh struggled to break through for some time. Dan Fogarty, who has shown great form with regards his kicking this season, opened the scoring with a good penalty. Nenagh had most of the possession but were finding it hard to secure their own ball which resulted in a number of turnovers. Eventually, Dan Fogarty again added to the score but this time it was a deceptive step which took him clean through the defence to touch down. He converted his own try leaving the score 10-0 to Nenagh at half time.

The second half continued to be a tough affair with Sunday’s Well’s Niall Horgan taking the first points with a good try which was converted by Shane O’Riordan. At 10-7 Nenagh felt the pressure and upped their game, determined not to concede a losing bonus point at home. Fogarty slotted another penalty and Derek Corcoran, who had worked tirelessly throughout the match, scored the try which sealed another good victory for Nenagh Ormond. Fogarty also converted this try to leave the final score at 20-7 and Nenagh remain at the top of Division 2B.

We travel to Tullamore this Friday night for the next round of All Ireland League action. Both sides will be up for this match and it promises to be a great night of rugby and craic. Bus leaves the clubhouse at 5pm on Friday evening. Anyone wishing to travel can contact any committee member for details.

Under 18s

Our Under 18s suffered their first loss of the season to a strong Thurles team on Sunday morning. On a day that the weather played a major factor Nenagh struggled from the off playing into a very strong gale force wind. Thurles capitalised and led 5-nil after five minutes. Nenagh responded well and equalised from the kick off. Thurles upped it a gear and scored twice to lead 15 – 5 at the halfway mark.

Thurles started the second half as they finished the first scoring early to leave the score 20-5 to Thurles. Nenagh with only XV players were unable to stop Thurles scoring a final try to finish the game 25-5 . All credit due to the Nenagh XV. Training as usual Tuesday and Friday nights at 7.30pm. Memberships also due.

Under 16s

Last Friday night, 25th October saw our U16’s play an East Munster League match against Thurles RFC under lights in Lisatunny.

We were blessed with a cold but dry night which saw Nenagh Ormond take to the pitch with a strong side. Nenagh dominated the early part of this match with hard work from the forwards led by Kevins Shinners. Nenagh scored the first try of the match with a powerful run from Catalin Cernean which was converted by Daragh Molloy. Thurles hit back with a fine try from their forwards which was duly converted leaving the sides level. The Nenagh forwards started to dominate the match which saw the Nenagh backs run in 2 tries before half time through Brian Doughan and Alex Moisei leaving a half time score of 17 – 7.

In the second half Nenagh dominated the match scoring four tries through Rory McCarthy(2) Jack Moloney and an excellent try from Brian Connaughton who ran from his own 22 to score under the post, leaving the final score at 39-14.

The Coaches would like to thank Paul Spain who lined the pitch before the match and the parents who provided food and refreshments after the match. A special thank you to the ladies who helped in the kitchen.
Training continues each Tuesday and Friday Night from 7pm at Tyone – all new players welcome.

Under 14s

Nenagh Ormond Under 14s continued with their league campaign on Sunday last when they hosted Thurles in the field at Tyone. Weather conditions were very bad and the Nenagh lads, sporting their new jerseys, played with a strong wind at their backs in the first half. The work rate from the forwards was very good and they were winning some great turnovers as a result. Eoin England and Ian Armitage both did well to secure a loose ball and great rucking produced quick ball which went out along the backline where Evan Murphy raced in for the first of his three tries. He followed up again a few minutes later when he slipped two tackles to give Nenagh a ten-nil lead at half time.

The weather conditions worsened in the second half and Thurles were piling on the pressure but Nenagh were working hard and held their line intact. Then a penalty kick from Evan Murphy appeared to have drifted wide when Johnny O’Meara slipped through to touch it down for a fifteen-nil lead to Nenagh. Evan Murphy secured his hat-trick when he broke through from the back of a scrum to give Nenagh another try and seal the result at 20 points to nil. This was a good performance and another win in this league although the conversions were proving difficult and will be an area to work on for future games.

Just a word of thanks also to A Sportsman’s Dream who sponsored the new jerseys and to let all of our members know that they can avail of a 10% discount with their membership booklets.

Mini Blitz at Nenagh Ormond

The rain poured down on Sunday morning but it was all action in Lisatunny as our mini teams hosted a very successful blitz. Teams travelled from Clanwilliam, Thurles and Roscrea and the morning of rugby was enjoyed by all. The hard work of our dedicated mini coaches was plain to see and there were some outstanding skills on display. The future of rugby at Nenagh Ormond looks bright!
Well done to everyone involved in organising a great event for our young players.

Under 12s

Nenagh hosted teams from Thurles and Roscrea on Sunday morning last and, despite the conditions, there was a great turnout. The benefits of six weeks training showed on the field. The players showed some great handling skills and running and their ability to keep the ball moving ensured they scored plenty of tries against two well-organised teams.
Team: Jack Deane, Danny Wilkinson, Dylan Murphy, Sean Richardson, Kevin Cleary, James Meagher, Luke Gleeson, David O’Sullivan, Hugh Guest, Eoin O’Meara, Paidi Williams, Conor White, Jack White, James Duff.

Under 11s

Nenagh Under 11s played Clanwilliam in awful conditions at home on Sunday morning. Two evenly matched teams played out a draw, scoring one try apiece. On a day not suited to passing the ball both teams served up lots of honesty and some of the tackling was a joy to behold. Clanwilliam took the lead with a try off a close-in scrum but our lads didn’t let their heads drop and with three minutes to go after some fine work Sonny Dower scored the equaliser. Special mention this week to Eoin Tighe playing his first game of rugby and his future is bright.
Team: Daire Slevin, Jack Gleeson, Tom Kennedy, Sonny Dower, John Brislane, Barry Ryan, Evan Rainsford, James Finn, Peter Collins, Liam Cooney, Tommy Ryan, Niall O’Sullivan, Martin Ryan, Eoin Tighe and Jamie Cottrell.

Juvenile Table Quiz

Annual Juvenile Table Quiz takes place on Friday week, November 8th in the Kenyon Bar at 9pm. Tables of four are €20 each. Spot prizes, raffle and auction on the night. Last year’s Juvenile Table Quiz was a huge success and a very enjoyable night so do come along and support our young players. All support will be greatly appreciated.

Waterford City RFC

Courtesy of:- Damien Kennedy, Club PRO

2nds Unlucky in local derby

Waterford City 03  Waterpark 08
Our 2nds were left to rue missed penalties last Sunday away to Waterpark in very tight league game. The game was extremely competitive from start to finish with 1st half being controlled by Waterpark. On 20 mins a penalty to Waterpark brought them to within 5 yards of the City try line and despite some valiant defence Waterpark found their way through for the opening score to lead 5-0. 5 mins later Waterpark added another 3 points to bring the score to 8-0. City were not about to lay down and some super carry’s from forwards Tom Bowes, Davey Whelan and Kevin Whelan put the home team under pressure and just at half time City earned a penalty which young Micheal Hayes stepped up and converted to bring the score to 8-3. The 2nd half conditions become windier and City were beginning to gain a foothold in this game and captain Eamonn O Keeffe was leading from the front with the line out being City’s main platform of attack. On 55mins City pressure resulted in Waterpark conceding a penalty to the right of the posts but the kick was missed. 5 mins later City earned another penalty from a similar position but that kick was also missed . A wayward Waterpark line out ball landed in Davey Whelans hands and a super run nearly saw him over the line but Waterpark defence held firm and relieved the pressure. Sean Stafford controlled his team well from out half and some clever kicking kept the game in the Waterpark half. City saw another penalty kick missed on 70 mins with the wind playing its part. The final 10 mins saw both teams throw caution to the wind and play some good open rugby but in the end Waterpark put the ball out off a scrum on the halfway to leave the score 8-3 in their favor. A good performance from our lads who left noting on the field but will look to make amends for this loss when they take on Cashel at home in the coming weeks.

U-18s left frustrated away to Clanwilliam
We travelled up to Tipperary Town to play Clan William on Sunday. We found ourselves 19 points down when Ryan Phillips smashed through 2 tackles and then beat the full back with a lovely stop and go then took off to score under the sticks, Connor Brennan slotted the kick to go in half time 19 to 7.Although there pack was much bigger than ours we competed well at the breakdown getting as many turn overs as they did.Clan scored 2 more tries but our lads were magnificent in their never say die attitude and they out played Clan for the last 20 minutes of the game where Aiden Power touched down in the corner after some great work from Tony O’Brien who smashed into 3 defender only to pop the ball to Aiden who handed off to score in the corner. It was a good game of rugby both teams using their own strengths against the other and played well.Another disappointing loss 29 to 12, disappointing in how we lost and not on the whole performance.Players to mention Tony O’Brien, Ryan, Aiden, but man of the match was Jake Phillips who covered every blade of grass,well played and that goes for the whole team, see you all Wednesday.

U-16s claim big win

Waterford City 44 Clanwilliam 12
Well done to our lads who claimed a super win away from home after a disappointing loss last week. Superb team effort.

U-14s defeat Clonmel

Waterford city entertained Clonmel in this very evenly contested league game at home.playing with a strong breeze and the slope, Clonmel opened the scoring with a try after 10 minutes. However city came back strongly and scored a try close in by Sean Walsh, converted by Tom carney. City went further ahead just before half time , with a great passage of play, which started in their own half, and, after many offloads, and quick rucks, Tom carney touched down for an excellent try. 12-5 to city half time. Although the second half was scoreless, some wasted chances by city, and to their credit, some strong defence from Clonmel. The game finished with a well deserved win for city. Final score City 12 Clonmel 5

Mini Blitz

Our little guys travelled to Waterpark last Sunday and had a fantastic time with all of our teams giving a great account of themselves, well done to all involved and thank you to Waterpark for running a great day.

Shannon RFC

Courtesy of:-  Siofra Scanlan, Club PRO

It was an important AIL win against Dungannon last weekend in Coonagh by our Senior XV. The weather turned glorious to suit our mood with some important points gained. Well done to all involved. We are away to Bucaneers in this week’s AIL. We know that not everyone can travel but we urge anyone who can to come along and support your club and team.

Events & News

HEINEKEN CUP TICKETS MUNSTER V PERPIGNAN DECEMBER 8TH
Shannon RFC have Heineken Cup match tickets for sale for the Munster V Perpignan game on December 8th. We are offering anyone who purchases a ticket a free pint, hot whiskey/hot port, tea/coffee or soft drink on producing your Shannon RFC Match ticket AFTER the game and ONLY at the bar in the Shannon RFC Clubhouse. Should anyone wish to purchase tickets please contact Tadhg Crowe on 0876524958 or secretary@shannonrfc.com. Cat A, Cat B and Terrace tickets available.

PRESIDENTS WALK
Many thanks to all who turned up for the walk this year. The conditions were not great but we all soldiered on in true Shannon spirit and all present completed the 5k. We would like to say a special thanks to the Mayor of Limerick, who came to the clubhouse to open the proceedings. We would like to also say a big thanks to all the people involved in helping out on the day. Volunteers, Stewards, face painter, barstaff and Dj Eoin. Can anyone who has a  sponsorship card to hand in please contact any of the Committee Members to do so. All contact details are on the website

SHANNON RFC CLUBHOUSE, YOUR LOCAL FOR MATCHES
Shannon RFC Clubhouse will be open on Saturday 2nd November for the Rabo Direct Pro 12 game between Munster and Ospreys. Why not stop in before the match and see the new look clubhouse. Full bar available and now also serving Heineken beer on tap. Doors open early with kick off at 19.15pm in Thomond Park.

SHANNON RFC APP
The info is in and we have officially reached 4,625 people, 495 have downloaded the app and we have a following in 60 countries all over the world. Please feel free to share the link with anyone who may be interested. We would love some feedback from all of you who are following us on the app so feel free to email me directly at siofrascanlan@gmail.com
If you still have not downloaded yet here is the link. http://clubapplive.com/shannonrfc.

SHANNON RFC SCRAP METAL CHALLENGE SUNDAY
Shannon RFC in association with United Metals hosted a Scrap Metal day on Sunday 20th October in Coonagh from 11am to 6pm. All at Shannon RFC would like to thank everyone who contributed to this event. You have raised some very important funds for the club and it is much appreciated. A special mention to Morgan who organised this event.

YOUR CLUB, YOUR COUNTRY IRFU DRAW 2013
Tickets are available for the 2013, Your Club Your Country IRFU Grand Draw. The tickets are €10 each. The Prizes are amazing and it is a great way to support your club. Tickets are available from any Shannon Committee member. All contact details for committee members can be found on http://www.shannonrfc.com/contact.htm
For a full list of prizes please see the IRFU website at http://www.irishrugby.ie/club/your_club_your_country.php

PLEASE DRIVE CAREFULLY THROUGH COONAGH
We would ask everyone to please take care, slow down and observe the speed limit through Coonagh Village on the way to and from the matches and training.

YOUR CLUB, YOUR THOUGHTS
We always like to hear from our members near and far. If you have a story, any interesting historical information or an article about the club that you would like to share we would love to hear it.Any submissions for consideration can be sent to siofrascanlan@gmail.com

UPCOMING FIXTURES

Saturday 2nd November

AIL~ Seniors~ Bucanneers V Shannon, Dubarry Park, Athlone  2.30pm
SWC~U20~Galwegians V Shannon, Crowley Park, Galway, 2.30pm

Sunday 3rd November

MSSL ~2nds~ Shannon v Bruff, Coonagh 2.30pm
AIL~Ladies~ New Ross V Shannon, New Ross, 1pm

Underage Training and Fixtures

Sunday 3rd November

Minis 10.00am
U6,7,8 & 10              Top  Pitch
U11                          Training Pitch
U9  Blitz @ Coonagh  New Pitch
U12 Blitz @ Coonagh Well Pitch & 1/2 Training Pitch
YOUTHS
U14 League V Bruff @ Coonagh 12pm  Well Pitch
U14 Conference V Ennis @ Coonagh 12pm New Pitch
U16 League v Ennis @ Coonagh 11.30am Top Pitch
11.30am
U15 Training Pitch
U13 Training Pitch
Now lads as you can see we will be very busy this Sunday so patience and order is required from all.
U12 and U9 Blitz must be finished by 11.45 am the latest suggest you start at 10.00am
2 U14 teams will have to share a dressing Room
2 Ennis teams will have to share as well
U16s and Bruff U14s will have the other 2 dressing rooms
Reminder that Registration is being taken in Cabin. Last week-end so must be paid if you haven’t.

Thought Of The Week

"Excellence is the gradual result of always striving to do better"