Clane RFC 21-10 Swords RFC: Clane Seniors begin new season with victory

We began our 2019/2020 season strongly after an impressive victory against visitors Swords on Sunday. The weather made things difficult for everyone, but we managed to overcome the conditions in the end.

We started the game very strongly, dominating possession and territory during the opening exchanges. Despite this, Swords kept their discipline and managed to stay penalty-free throughout this period. We continued to push, but in the end we were held scoreless due to committed defending and handling errors.

Swords then managed to push up into our half for a brief period, capitalising on some ill-discipline on our part in order to score the first points of the match. We quickly responded however. The pack patiently worked through the phases close to the Swords line, testing their defence before the ball was spun wide. Some quick hands and excellent running meant Cillian Quirke was able to touch down in the corner for the opening try of our season.

The weather worsened in the second half, but the team continued their strong first half showing. Our opponents managed to get their hands on the ball more often, but some good line speed and strong tackling held them at bay for the most part. The forwards’ hard work again resulted in sustained pressure in the opposition 22. Eventually the pressure told, and Brian Corbett managed to crash through the defenders before scoring under the posts.

Tight defence was the catalyst for our final score of the game with only a few minutes left. A kick in behind put Swords under pressure to move the ball out. However, as the ball was passed out to their backs, the ball was dropped. Jimmy McMahon’s line-speed was rewarded as he picked the ball up and dotted down, giving us an unassailable lead.

Swords were rewarded for some good attacking play as they eventually wore our defence down in the dying seconds of the game, barrelling through between the sticks.

Clane will be happy with a very professional performance, holding their opponents at bay for much of the match. Plenty of new faces have been integrated to the squad alongside the new coaching staff, so this start will give the side plenty of encouragement for the season ahead. Congratulations to Scott Sterling, Conor O’Flaherty, Luke Gannon, and Glenn Predy on their debuts for the seniors. Hopefully there will be many more wins ahead!

We continue our season with an away trip to RCSI this Sunday 29th September. Below is the league table after one game. Lets continue our good start!