Clontarf 9 Blackrock College 3

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Clontarf, who started out as firm underdogs for this AIB clash, reminded early front runners Blackrock of their proven league pedigree. Ultimately the home side made the most of the slight wind and slope advantages enjoyed by both sides at an increasingly wet but playable Castle Avenue.

Clontarfs’ sluggish start to the season continued in the opening exchanges which saw the visitors camped inside the Clontarf half. The home sides’ inability to secure the restart or effectively clear their lines allowed Blackrock take the lead through an early James Power penalty. Unphased Clontarf responded swiftly with a superbly struck Martin Dufficy drop goal.

Blackrock threatened much but converted little in an opening half in which Clontarfs’ scramble defence was severely tested. Clontarf however came closest to crossing the try line after Aaron Dundon put through Michael Keating having found space in the loose. Keating, showing his massive potential and raw pace, ran an excellent support line and was perhaps unlucky to be pinged for a double movement on the line.

In the second half Clontarf made the most of the Castle Avenue slope and noticeable wind advantage to enjoy the lions’ share of territory. Despite working deep into the Blackrock half through good, phased possession Clontarf left their opponents 22 on at least three occasions having failed to convert pressure into points. In the end Clontarf edged ahead through an opportunistic drop goal and solid penalty strike from Dufficy.

For much of the game Clontarf proved far more effective without the ball in hand, constantly disrupting their opponents’ set-piece, and creating good turnover ball in the loose. From one to fifteen the defensive effort was immense. Denying Blackrock kickable penalty opportunities in trying conditions was a credit to Clontarfs discipline and a major plus to take from the game. Henry Bryce delivering on early season form cut a physical presence in midfield and under the high ball. Similarly, fellow recruit Peter Synott was highly effective in support and on the ground.

In what was a must-win game so early in the season, Clontarf did just enough to continue their climb up the division 1A table. The level of intensity and commitment sustained by the players over the 80 minutes must be applauded. Clontarfs’ newly assembled squad look to be turning a corner and seem prepared to fight in the trenches for one another. The ability to grind out ugly W’s may not win hearts and minds but is exactly what is needed as playing conditions worsen in the coming months.

Clontarf resume old rivalries next Saturday against Belvedere in the AIB Cup looking to overturn an early season defeat and build upon their recent run of results.