Women 13 – Blackrock 12

Galwegians defeated a deflated Blackrock and ground out a one point victory at a wet and windy Crowley Park on Sunday in an exhausting and torrid battle.

Galwegians got off to an intense start putting pressure on the Blackrock defence which they absorbed well, spending the first fifteen minutes in their opponents half. However minor handling errors from the Blues denied them the opportunity of getting points on the board. Blackrock however retaliated as the East side trudged their way down to their opponents half kicking for touch and forming a powerful maul from a secured lineout which they marched convincingly over the Galwegians’ tryline. Blackrock converted their try and 18 minutes into the game Blackrock were beating the hosts 7-0.

Galwegians substituted newcomer Christie O’ Toole for Heather Cary and minutes later due to injury international prop, Ruth O’ Reilly had to be replaced for Fiona Farrell. Galwegians were awarded a penalty 30 minutes in which Fowley kicked with ease over the posts lessening the gap 3-7 to the visitors. Galwegians’ casualty count continued to climb when Noreen Coyne had to be replaced by Ursula Sammon.

Galwegians started the second half with much improved line speed and determination which was a marked improvement on the first half. They showed conviction and accuracy and 19 minutes in their relentless efforts paid off. The hosts opted for a forward onslaught through ball carriers O’ Connor, Feely and Redmond and after multiple phases of patient composed rugby with strong rucking and excellent attacking play they opened up opportunities out wide for Mairead Coyne to sidestep her way into space and over the try line. Nicole Fowley failed to convert. Galwegians 8-7.

The ref blew the whistle, 21 minutes in and Blackrock were penalised for their indiscipline at the breakdown. No. 2 Annmarie Rooney was the recipient of the yellow and was sent to the bin for ten minutes for her efforts.

Galwegians’ no. 12 Emma Clery found herself over the line 23 minutes into the second half. Her explosive pace and power helped her to exploit the gaps in Blackrock’s defence on the right hand channel, resulting in an excellent try. No conversion. Bringing the Blues into a more convincing lead of 13-7.

However Blackrock retaliated with aggressive attacking play and their efforts paid off 32 minutes in when they scored a try which they failed to convert, 13-12. Galwegians continued to slog tirelessly and ferociously for the final duration, winning two of the opposition’s lineouts and attacking impeccably in an effort to put some more points on the board. The final whistle drew the match to a close with Galwegians victorious by a narrow one point victory thus getting their winning ways back on track.

Galwegians will take on familiar foes Highfield next Sunday 23/10/16 in Cork in what promises to be another tough battle in this league competition.