This fixture was postponed due to the snow fall on the 3rd of Jan and with close to 4 weeks without a game both teams were very eager to play. The chants and clatter of studs coming from both dressing rooms was a indication of the battle that was about to unfold.

Middleton with a bigger stronger pack took possession from the kick off but their attack was shut down every time by the excellent defensive work of Thurles, especially our centre Daniel Delaney and back rows Ciaran O Mahony and Finn Green. Thurles playing into a strong breeze and glaring sun found it difficult to get a foothold in the game.

Paudie Kavanagh was unlucky not to get the first score of the game, when he kicked and chased a ball over the tryline. The close race between himself and a Middleton player resulted in no try but a goal line drop out. 

Thurles did get the first score of the game through Captain Daniel Groome, after a few phases and big carries from Jason Carroll and Luke Ryan, Daniel took possession near the Midleton 10 Meter line and just inside the 15 metrechannel, where Middleton were outnumbered. And it was an easy run in under the posts, Daniel added the crucial 2 points.

Middleton bounced back and scored 2 unconverted tries to take the lead to 10-7 at half time. 

Thurles got the first score of the second half through Paudie Kavanagh who powered over the line from 10 metres out. Daniel Groome added to 2 extra points. Middleton were quick to react and got over for another try again unconverted but put them in the lead by one point, 15-14. Thurles added another try through Daniel Groome, very similar to his first score and again Daniel added the extra 2 points which would be crucial. Daniel looked certain to get another try after a well worked move from a scrum saw him through, only for a fantastic tackle from the Midleton fullback. 

Midleton, down by 6 points and with only a few minutes remaining, stepped up a gear and their number 8 ran in a try from 40 metres out and touching down under the posts. The conversion went just wide of the posts, and this left the final score at 21-20 to Thurles. 

Thanks to all the parents who provided the food after the match and thank you to Midleton for travelling and providing a ref at short notice.