RUGBY:SHANNON REGAINED some self-respect in a hard-fought clash with Division 1A leaders Cork Constitution at Coonagh on Saturday, despite losing 26-20.
In normal circumstances, any defeat, particularly at home, is a disappointment. But these are far from normal circumstances following Shannon’s 53-point drubbing by St Mary’s last week.
So, to recover from an early 0-13 deficit, outscore their rivals by three tries to two and end the game by securing a losing bonus point in injury-time was an important step forward for Shannon.
Old Belvedere produced the performance of the weekend to overwhelm Young Munster 31-0 at Tom Clifford Park and stay in second spot behind Cork Constitution in the table.
Once again, their outstanding backrow did most of the damage, with Jason Rison getting two of their tries and Leo Auva’a securing the other. The remainder of their points came from the boot of Colman Keane with four penalties and a conversion, and a conversion from Andy Dunne.
St Mary’s have gone third following their hard-earned 10-9 success over Dolphin at Musgrave Park. The try was scored by substitute David Campbell after a break from scrumhalf Matt D’Arcy.
In what was a particularly good day for Dublin clubs against Limerick opposition, Blackrock accounted for Garryowen 16-11 at Stradbrook to move off bottom of the table.
The vital try was scored late on by Blackrock substitute Alex Dunlop.
In Division 1B, Buccaneers have moved level with Clontarf at the top following their 45-15 hammering of UCC at Dubarry Park. The Connacht outfit came good in a second half to cross for five tries, with Kolo Kiripati and Brian Tuohy getting two each.
At Stevenson Park, Clontarf went down to a surprise first defeat, 30-17. Paddy Jackson accounted for 20 of Dungannon’s points with a try, three penalties and three conversions.
Home advantage undoubtedly sees Lansdowne at their best. Having scored 61 points on their last outing on the back pitch at the Aviva Stadium, they trounced Galwegians 45-14, scoring five tries.
The remaining game saw Bruff edge out UL Bohemians 14-13 in at Killballyowen.
The Cahill brothers, Brian, Eoin and Tony, all contributed scores for Bruff
