By Kevin O’Siochain
The ghost of players past returned to haunt Clontarf as they crashed out of the AIB Cup at the hands of Belvedere.
Former Tarf fullback Conal Keane secured victory for the home side with a penalty minutes from full time in a closely contested fixture at Anglesea Road. Enforced changes on both side detracted somewhat from the spectacle usually enjoyed when these clubs meet.
Despite starting strongly and creating turnovers from the restart, Clontarf quickly found themselves 8-0 down. Belvedere exploited an uncharacteristically porous Clontarf line-out defence, working the blind-side channel well. Ex Clontarf under 20’s wing David Mongan going over in the corner for the opening try of the game.
Clontarf entered the break 14-6 down having failed to assert themselves in the game. A poorly executed kicking game handed Belvedere consistent territorial gains. Clontarf arguably created the better scoring opportunities of the teams, showing a willingness to spread the ball wide and keep it alive where possible.
Peter O’Brien’s introduction after the break created some space in midfield for the Clontarf attack to build momentum. Carl de Shenu eventually crossing the line for a superbly worked team try. However a host of unforced errors undermined Tarfs’ attempts to stamp their authority on the game. Clontarf created enough to snatch a victory here but in the end a lack of urgency to push on from 14-14 invited the home side to defend a narrow lead having edged ahead.
Clontarf return to action in the AIL this Saturday with an away visit to Cork Con. Having taken two steps forward and one step back against Blackrock and Belvedere respectively this clash will provide a litmus test Clontarf’s progress. Cian Healy makes his long awaited test debut in an Irish jersey this Sunday against Australia. We wish him well and continued success!