MARCHONS, MARCHONS...J1
Author: David O'Siochain
2005-12-06
Following last weeks defeat of table-toppers Greystones, the J1's regained top spot in the Metro League and continued on their mini odyssey by travelling to Stradbrook to take on Blackrock last Sunday.

This was Tarf's third consecutive away game having fallen to a two point loss at Templeville Road but returning to winning ways lastweek at Dr Hickey Park.

Straight from the off, the J1's began to exert forward dominance into a stiff breeze. With the lineout benefiting from the accurate arrows of Clontarf's very own Phil Taylor - Niall Carson - the pack began to build multiple phases and were unlucky to be denied a try from Peter Woods after the final pass from Dave Hewitt was mistakenly judged forward.

But the pressure finally told as the Rock boys conceded multiple penalties deep inside their own half and John Kennedy crashed over under the posts following a catch and drive deep inside the Rock 22. Kennedy converted and later added a penalty to bring Tarf's lead to ten points.

The final try of the first half was a well worked move from a lineout. Alan Trenier caught the ball at 4 transferred to 2 and then the ball was flicked to Carson in the five metre channel. Carson was held just short but from the ensuing pick and drive Daragh Ffrench breached the line aided and abetted by Trenier.

Into the wind in the second half the J1's battled hard but failed to find the same cohesion which defined their play in the first half. However, they marshalled their defence and restricted the home side to a couple of half chances.

Late into injury time Rock ball was turned over in Tarf's 22. Trenier set up quick ruck ball on the right before the ball was flashed across the field as forwards and backs interlinked in a devastating counterattack which resulted in an 80 metre try. Daragh Ffrench selflessly finishing off the move under the posts

Final Score BLACKROCK 0 CLONTARF 24

After ten games played the J1's have won 9 lost 1
- Points for = 349
- Points Against = 88

---