On a lovely cool day, Old Christians Rugby Club fumbled their way to a 24 – 5 victory over Kerry visitors Castleisland,who were valiant in defeat.
The first try of the game coming courtesy of Castleisland who got over from close range after continuous pressure on the OC line. Indiscipline was a constant theme throughout the day for the home side and multiple pens led to good field position for the visitors, which they duly converted into 5 points.
This awoken OC to a point and their first try came from Sean Kelly, who capitalized on multiple phases of play to break through the opposition's defence and score a well-deserved try. Some strong carries from Cian Smith and Jack Lonergan set the platform and Sean used his strength to power over. Conversion missed.
The game was littered with yellow cards with Cian being shown the first yellow card for a high shot and taking a 10 min break.
Few minutes later the home side went the length of the field with a great carry from Shane Foley setting a good field position before Jamie Hayes showed some excellent decision making and handling to release Oscar Clarke who ran it in from 40. Conversion missed again leaving the score 10 – 5 at HT.
A try early in the 2nd half from marauding hooker Mark Gleeson settled the nerves somewhat from a strong maul platform but OC struggled to get the bonus point. Mistake after mistake frustrated players and fans alike not helped by a further 2 yellow cards in the shape of Mark Deane and Conor Smiddy.
The home side were making things very difficult but finally managed to get the all-important bonus try 10 mins from time. The returning Ruari Casey making his 1st team seasonal debut following over 15 months out barrelled his way over from close range.
Johnny Marnell added the conversion to make the final score 24 – 5. A day for the die hard but 5 points on the board is very welcome and continues the excellent start to the season.
All eyes now turn to Tralee on Sat for the final league game of 2024 before 2 cup games close out the year.
