Listowel RFC 12 Killarney RFC 21 – Match report -by Ian Harrington
Killarney secured a notable win over a strong, robust and heretofore unbeaten Listowel side last Saturday morning played out in perfect conditions for rugby. Listowelโs large pack, matched by strength and size all over the pitch, was counteracted by Killarneyโs fast-paced, fast-moving game in an intriguing tie.
Killarney scored first when a concerted team effort resulted in a Pierce Slattery try under the post, converted by Finn Kennelly. Listowel responded immediately with a devastating attack coming from a turnover in the middle of the pitch which Killarney couldnโt halt. At this stage, the game was an exciting end to end contest with neither team getting the upper hand. The Killarney boys were unlucky just before halftime when a nicely worked try was subsequently chalked off for a foot in touch.
Halftime score 7-5 in Killarneyโs favour.
It was Killarney who again struck first in the second half when a combination from Cathan Harrington Shane OโSullivan and Josh Coffey resulted in another Pierce Slattery try once again ably converted by Finn Kennelly.
Listowel at this stage piled on the pressure and spent a lengthy period in the Killarney 22. The incessant pressure told when a Killarney player was yellow-carded for a high tackle and a converted try under the posts soon followed.
With only 2 points now between the sides and both teams giving it their all, the last ten mins was an exciting affair. Disciplined and concerted team play by Killarney led to the decisive try by Josh Coffey from a line break 2 mins from time.
Ultimately, Killarney had the game plan to stop Listowelโs strong ball carriers through well organised, committed, well-executed tackles throughout particularly by Alex OโLeary, Cathan Harrington, Stephen Walsh and Daire OโBrien along with some superb counter-rucking by Shane OโSullivan. Donncha Coffeyโs running ability and the able performance of Gearoid Sugrue in his first match as scrumhalf all contributed to halting Listowelโs superb start to the season.
Credit must go to the gracious and sporting Listowel management and to a very fair and competent refereeing performance by Gus Sweeney who generously offered his services at short notice.
