Senior Rugby Roundup

Holders Cork Constitution qualified for the Bateman Cup Final where they will face Lansdowne in the decider.

Cork Constitution bidding for their sixth successive Bateman Cup title had to work hard at the Palace Grounds to defeat the Ulster Cup holders City of Armagh 20-13. Two penalties from Aidan Moynihan had the Temple Hill side 6-5 ahead at half time. Robbie Faloon scored a try for the home side. Tries from Vincent O’Brien and Luke Cahill both converted by Moynihan saw the holders book their final place.

Lansdowne defeated Sligo 34-15 in the other semi-final.

Sunday’s Well lost away to Rainey Old Boys 15-8 in Division 2B of the All Ireland League. The ‘Well made a great start with a try from Cyprian Jouve and a penalty by Shane O’Riordan to lead 8-0 after ten minutes. Rainey fought back to lead 15-8 at half time. The ‘Well held on to at least secure a losing bonus point.

Thomond unveiled their floodlights at Liam Fitzgerald Park on Friday night but lost their Division 2B local derby tie to Bruff 11-10. Sean Herlihy kicked Bruff into a 6-0 lead with two penalties. David O’Halloran replied with a try for Thomond which Evan Cusack converted. The lead did not last long as former Thomond player Mark Cosgrove got in for a try for Bruff to leave them 11-7 ahead at half time. The only score of the second half was a Cusack penalty for Thomond.

Results:

Ulster Bank League Division 2B: Belfast Harlequins 18, Wanderers 22;

Rainey Old Boys 15, Sunday’s Well 8;

Division 2C: Thomond 10, Bruff 11;

Bateman Cup Semi Finals: City of Armagh 13, Cork Constitution 20;

Sligo 15, Lansdowne 34;

Senior Friendly: Cashel 28, Shannon 12;