Women 19 – Tralee 8

Galwegians got their league campaign back on track with a win against up-and-coming Tralee at O’Dowd Park last weekend. The two teams had met previously, crossing paths at the semi-final stage of last season’s AIL Cup. That fixture finished with a tight Galwegians win, and though this victory was more clear-cut, both teams provided another tense and entertaining spectacle.

The Galway side suffered the early loss of hooker Tosh Haywood with a broken arm but coped admirably; the lack of trust and confidence which had marked their last two games had vanished, pointing towards a more dynamic and coherent performance. While unforced errors were rampant, Galwegians reacted to mistakes positively with strong attack and defensive displays.

Emma Clery shone at full-back, her scything runs making countless yards towards the opposition try line. Half-backs Sorcha ni Chadhain and Claire Raftery once again organised , and Kate O’Flynn was impressive in her switch from wing to wing-forward. Tralee, led by the indomitable Siobhan Fleming, tested Galwegians at every opportunity, providing huge pressure during line-outs and at ruck time.

While Galwegian’s defence was more efficient than on previous occasions, sustaining a multi-phase attack within its 22 during the third quarter, it could not keep out the impressive Siobhan Barrett, who touched down under the posts for a well-deserved try. Barrett had earlier scored a penalty for the home side ensuring that they were just four points behind at half-time.

Galwegians secured their win with two Carol Staunton tries, converted by Raftery, either side of that provided by lock Heather Cary.

After a break in league action next weekend, Galwegians return to the competition where St. Mary’s College awaits in the next round.