Sunday 13th November: Blackrock (away)

Green Team

The Greystones Green team took on Blackrock in Stradbrook on a beautifully dry and sunny morning, ideal for good rugby. The match did not disappoint, with a plenty of good running on display from both sides.  Both teams started positively and tried to run the ball at every opportunity. Greystones started to get the upper hand with two quick tries – the first coming from a clever and decisive break by Conor McAleer who passed to Darragh Rochford to finish off some excellent play, and the next following a powerful drive from Harry Noonan who used his strength to drive through the Blackrock defence.  Blackrock immediately hit back through a try from their speedy winger who outpaced the Greystones defence and ran half the length of the pitch for an excellent score. Greystones added a further try from Conor Lacy which was countered by an excellent backline move from Blackrock that was finished off by their winger to leave the score 3-2 at half time. Greystones came out of the blocks very quickly in the second half, where some excellent rucking meant there was plenty of possession for the backs. Mick O’Gara made one of his many powerful runs and passed to Sean O’Brien whose pace and strength saw him getting his first score of the day. 

This was quickly followed by another try from Darragh Rochfod whose support play enabled him to finish off some positive running by Sean O’Brien. Greystones continued to keep the pressure on Blackrock and this was rewarded when a clearing kick was fielded by Mick O’Gara who then used his pace and determination to beat the defence for his first try of the game. He quickly followed this by finishing off another score that was the result of the ball passing through the hands of all of the Greystones backs.   Blackrock, who never let their heads drop, countered and scored following a powerful run from one of their athletic props. Fittingly the match finished with a score from Sean O’Brien that was the result of hard work from the pack and the hands and pace of the backs.  Every one of the twelve Green Team players made a significant contribution to an enjoyable and skilful game. The team demonstrated excellent shape throughout, with the rucking and overall endeavour of the forwards providing an excellent platform that enabled the backs to play flowing and exciting rugby. The game was played with a tremendous attitude, commitment and spirit by both teams.

Final Scope: Greystones 8, Blackrock 3 

Team: Harry Noonan, Jonathon Landers, Conor Lacy, Evan Downey, Liam Marshall,  Liam Lupton-Smith, Charlie Byrne, Conor McAleer, Darragh Rochford, Sean O’Brien, Jeremy O’Donovan, Mick O’Gara.