'TARF GET HOME SEMI !
23/04/2007
Clontarf 43 Dungannon 0


The last time anyone in Castle Ave cheered news from Stradbrook was when a rumour swept Clontarf that a 10 ton chunk of space debris had fallen on the ‘Rock clubhouse during their AGM!
Seriously though, Blackrock’s performance on Saturday in denying UL Bohs a win and therefore helping Clontarf to a home AIL semi final was cheered to the rafters in ‘Tarf.
Clontarf’s part of the deal was to put together a performance against a Dungannon side that has only recently moved out of contention for the top four in the league.
It was a comprehensive victory with the home side running in 6 tries in all including two from Rantz McDonald playing in his customary position on the wing. ‘Tarf were dominant in all phases and when they scored the first points in the second half to bring it to 18 0 any thoughts of a Dungannon comeback were quashed. What followed was a rout with the visitors run ragged by the end. The pack was again at its narky best with the backrow in particular bullying their opposition around the park.
So next Saturday we have Garryowen back in Castle Ave for the AIL semi final.
Two weeks ago in the League they turned us over with a powerful defensive performance. Many of the ‘Tarf team felt they had blown the chances of a home semi after that result. Some even felt the need to apologise for the loss of income the Club would suffer in travelling for the Semi.
Those apologies were genuine but not appropriate because there are plenty of Clubs around who would give their eye teeth to make an AIL semi and wouldn’t give a jot where it was played. No player need run out on the pitch with the distractions of the Clubs strategic finances in his head. Clontarf have now made the semi’s for the 5th time in 6 years. That is a fantastic achievement!
The sporting Gods have worked their magic and the semi is in Castle Ave. Clontarf is not the easiest place to visit when you are looking for a result. Garryowen will take comfort in their performance two weeks ago and Clontarf will take comfort in their familiarity with the Limerick men.
If any motivation was needed for this game let it not be financial. Let it be this…..

Phil Werahiko is coming to the end of a glittering 6 year coaching career in Clontarf . His commitment to the success of Clontarf rugby and his selfless dedication to the development of each of his players has been outstanding. There is no better Club coach in Irish Rugby and few better men in the game.

He has two more weeks to go in Castle Ave.
After 6 years he has two weeks to go.
Two weeks , two games.

Get it right.

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