The loss of Eric Elwood, through injury, early in the second half was a costly one for Galwegians as Cork Constitution deservedly took the All-Ireland League Division One points at stake in Temple Hill yesterday.

A superb try from centre Ronan O'Donovan was another important factor in the outcome of this game, which had appeared to be going Galwegians' way in the opening quarter.

Conor Mahony kicked Constitution into a first-minute lead with a penalty, but Galwegians hit back with a brilliant try from Gavin Duffy, which was converted from the touchline by Elwood.

Mahony kicked a further penalty at the mid-point of the half and then Constitution took control. The outhalf kicked his third penalty and was instrumental in setting up O'Donovan's try under the posts, which he converted himself to establish a 16-7 half-time lead.

Galwegians were unable to make any real impression after the break, particularly without Elwood. They did peg Constitution back with a 77th minute penalty, but the home side finished strongly and could well have pushed out the lead further. Mahony missed a fairly simple penalty and was also off-target with a drop goal attempt in injury time.

CORK CONSTITUTION: R Kenneally; D Hurley, D Dillon, R O'Donovan, A Sherrard; Mahony, A O'Sullivan; I Murray, J Fogarty, R McGrath, K Murphy, M O'Driscoll, D O'Callaghan, U O'Callaghan, J Murray.

GALWEGIANS: G Duffy; G Brady, P Duignan, M Murphy, F McLaughlin; E Elwood, J Heaslip; D McFarland, K Tierney, P Bracken, J Casserly, M Swift, J Charlie, B Gavin, J O'Connor. Replacement - J Muldoon for Elwood 53

Referee: A Rolland (Leinster).