U21 League Match: Blackrock 21 Clontarf 17
By Mark Byrnes
Clontarf were cruelly denied the opportunity to capture the JP Flanagan Premier Super 6 Section A as Blackrock secured victory late in injury time.
Clontarf got off to a great start with right wing Donal Murray scoring a try.
However, Blackrock quickly responded and were level on ten minutes when they stole possession from a Tarf lineout to score in the corner. Clontarf did not let this perturb them and scored further tries – the first from a well worked maul and another after great play from Collie O’Shea, centre partner James Harte touched down and converted to make it 17-5.
Blackrock fought back and a penalty on half time left it 17-8 at the break.
Blackrock were a changed side after half time and put Clontarf under tremendous pressure and great credit must be given to the Clontarf defence for holding out for so long. Blackrock kicked a penalty to leave it 17-11 after 47 minutes.
Clontarf’s only visit into opposition territory saw impressive out half Matt Darcy just halted short of the line and the opportunity was sadly lost.
Clontarf were reduced to 13 players for a spell in the second half but still were hanging on when Blackrock kicked a penalty with seven minutes left to set up a frantic finale with the score 17-14 to the northsiders.
Blackrock, again laid siege to the Tarf line and a series of penalties against Clontarf did not help matters as the referee continued to frustrate Clontarf and even baffle the Blackrock dugout.
Clontarf’s defence finally capitulated when Rock scored the winning try and kicked the extras to end Clontarf’s unbeaten run in the competition.