Women 10 – UL Bohs 15

The game opened in Crowley Park in ideal weather conditions. Everyone expected a very tight game and both sides didn’t disappoint. 13 minutes in and the visitors opened the scoring after a string of relentless forward play and then fed their backs the ball to sail over the try line, securing the first try of the game which they converted with ease. Galwegians 0- Ul Bohs 7.

This was a tough game and both sides very evenly matched however it seemed the hosts were making minor errors which kept them on the back foot throughout the game and costing them vital opportunities to get in the lead.

Thirty minutes in and Bohs nearly found themselves over the line however Amelie Roux no. 5 was responsible for denying Bohs a near-certain try. A mere seven minutes later Bohs scored their second try of the game with an off load in the tackle to their winger who ran freely into open space. 12-0 to the visitors. Griffin for UL Bohs was penalised moments later for not releasing on the ground, allowing Galwegians to capitalise and get points on the board. Nicole Fowley stepped up to kick for the posts which she did with precision securing 3 points for the hosts, drawing the first half to a close, 3-12.

The battle continued when UL kicked off in the second half. Galwegians showed great patience with excellent play which led to a well-deserved score which Fowley converted 12-10. Galwegians utilised good attacking play from their forwards with powerful pick and go options and hard running allowing Healy to carry well and draw in defence to pass to her comrades Raftery and Fowley in back line who shipped the ball to young newcomer Sarah Jane Fox to make it over the try line.

Minutes later UL Bohs were awarded a penalty which Niamh Briggs kicked over the posts. It was evident that Galwegians weren’t going down without a fight and demonstrated some excellent attacking play from Clare Raftery and Mary Healy with Edel Mc Mahon running a nice line on the inside shoulder however this effort was narrowly held up by Niamh Briggs on the try line.

It indeed was a ‘blue’ day as the ref blew the final whistle. Galwegians 10- UL Bohs 15. It must be said that the 15-10 defeat was not without its virtues. Foremost among which was gargantuan performances from front rowers Ruth O’ Reilly, Ciara O’ Connor and Laura Feely. Demonstrating strong ball carries, great rucking and even a switch move out in the backline thrown in for good measure! Furthermore cover defensive workrate was also evident from engine room second rowers Amelie Roux, Christie O’ Toole and Denise Redmond also Marian Sheridan and captain Edel Mc Mahon who shored up any gaps on ruck and maul fringes and worked tirelessly throughout the game.

Galwegians will take on familiar foes Blackrock in Crowley Park in what will be a physical and gripping encounter. KO at 1.00 16/10/16. Come out and support the girls.