Women 12 – St Marys 20

Women downed in opening AIL game of the new season

From the kick-off, Galwegians seemed to start the game on the back foot.

The hosts touched down first with scores from ex-Galwegian and number 8 Carol Staunton and full-back Gillian Dufficy. It wasn’t until the 41st minute when number 8, Emma Clery, broke through St Mary’s defence to score that the visitors really started to make their presence felt. This unconverted try gave Galwegians an injection of energy and tenacity that was lacking for the majority of the first half.

10 seconds into the second half, Galwegians immediately increased the tempo with scrum half Mary Healy crossing for a try. Claire Raftery converted. From there, the game turned into something of a dog fight between the two teams with some excellent work defensively on both sides.

However, when Staunton broke away from a 60th minute lineout for her second try of the day, the tide turned in St. Mary's favour at 17-12. With the pressure on, the penalty count began to increase around the ruck area and the Dubliners sealed their victory by taking 3 points from a penalty directly in front of the posts.

Final score St Marys 20-12 Galwegians.

The Blue Belles would like to welcome and thank all the new players that travelled to the game on Sunday and also to congratulate the two new caps Nicole Fowley and Ellie Duffy.

The second round of the league sees Galwegians V Highfield. This takes place Sunday 4th November in Crowley Park. All support welcome.