Energia All Ireland Junior Cup
On a bright , cold windy day, Creggs RFC played host to the visiting Tipperary side Kilfeakle & District RFC. Playing with a strong wind Creggs kicked off with Kilfeakle immediately going into attack. After a powerful break by Nato Kiripati, Creggs won a penalty 40 meters out kicked by Mark Purcell. On 20 minutes, after a scrum on halfway, a quick ball released Mark Purcell for a 15 meter break linking with Cormac Dolan, gaining another 20 going deep into the red zone. Kilfeakle lost ground a short time later when their outhalf missed touch and kicked dead from a penalty on the 22. Creggs cleared downfield winning a penalty on the 22 which Mark Purcell kicked to go 6 – nil going into half time.
Winning a 22 drop off, Brian Diffley gathered to break 20 yards who off loaded to Shane Dowd whose pace brought Creggs to the 22 eventually being released to the backline where Mark Purcell was to score 7 more points getting the first try of the game after 52 minutes pushing the lead to 13. Kilfeakle went on the attack and after 10 minutes ran two separate penalties inside the Creggs 22 eventually scoring a try on the left touchline bringing the score to 13 -5. Kilfeakle felt dominant and their pack won a scrum penalty on 70 minutes and ran it onside the 22 to score a try at the posts making it a one point game. From the kick off they again attacked and Creggs were penalised on their 10. Kilfeakle took the kick successfully going 2 points clear with 6 minutes left.
This team’s experience and fitness and skillset showed itself when Mark Purcell gathered making 15 meters before laying off to Ronan Dowd at pace who work his magic to the 22 where he passed to his cousin Mark Dowd racing home Creggs 2nd try at the posts. Converted by Mark Purcell Creggs went ahead again 20 -15. With only minutes left Creggs forwards and backs mixed play with quick handling to release Lee Kilcoyne for another Creggs try to finish the scoring at 25-15. This was a huge team win with all 20 on the pitch playing their part backed up by a committed coaching side.
Photo compliments of Steve Fahey Foxshots77
AIL Rugby & Club Rugby
Connacht Rugby Club & Community