Clinical Thurles too Strong for Fethard
Evans Cup / Gleeson Cup Final Double Header: May 7th 2023
Thurles 2nd XV 41- 11 Fethard 2nd XV
In a highly anticipated rugby match at Loughtagalla, the stage was set for an intense, winner takes all, contest between Thurles and Fethard in this Cup Final Double Header. The prize for victory was immense, and the atmosphere was electric as both teams took the field, ready to leave everything on the pitch. Shay Scanlon had his men in prime condition for what was the final game of the 2023 season. The last minute defeat to Ard Scoil Old Boys, in last week’s Webb Cup Final was enough motivation to get the home side fired up for the inevitable battle that is always guaranteed when you play Fethard
The game kicked off on time at 2:30 with the advantage of a strong wind in Fethard’s favour. The visitors, drew first blood with a penalty expertly slotted through the uprights by Peter Wall, giving them an early 3-0 lead.
However, a period of indiscipline from the home side presented Fethard with two more opportunities to extend their advantage. Unfortunately for the visitors, Wall failed to convert either of these attempts, squandering the chance to increase their lead. It was a costly miss as Thurles seized the opportunity to make their mark on the scoreboard.
Thurles' sharpshooter, Conor O'Hagan, stepped up and coolly slotted two penalties in quick succession, swinging the momentum in favour of the home team. With those successful kicks, Thurles snatched the lead at 6-3, leaving the Fethard supporters on edge.
As the game approached the 30-minute mark, Thurles showcased their attacking prowess with a moment of brilliance. James Devaney, intercepted a wayward Fethard pass, and starting from deep inside his own 22, embarked on a mesmerising run, evading numerous tackles and showcasing his speed and agility. With thunderous cheers from the home crowd, Devaney touched down under the posts, setting off wild celebrations. O'Hagan added the extra points, boosting Thurles' score to 13-3.
Just before halftime, Thurles further extended their advantage with a superbly executed play. Dylan O'Shaughnessy, the team's try-scoring machine, received a well-timed chip through from Eamon Connolly and gracefully gathered the ball before diving into the corner. The crowd erupted as O'Shaughnessy's try took the score to 18-6 in favour of Thurles as they headed into the break with confidence and momentum on their side.
At the start of the second half, Thurles wasted no time in increasing their lead. O'Hagan, continuing his flawless kicking display, converted an early penalty, further adding his individual tally and pushing the score to 21-6. Fethard by now, were facing an uphill battle against a determined Thurles side.
Undeterred by their deficit, Fethard fought hard to find a way back into the game. However, Thurles remained resolute in defence and showcased their attacking prowess once again. On the 50th minute, O'Shaughnessy demonstrated his try-scoring abilities once more, crossing the line to the elation of the home crowd. O'Hagan's successful conversion took the score to a commanding 28-6 in Thurles' favour.
Thurles' dominance continued to grow, and their relentless pressure led to another breakthrough. Matthew Kelly powered his way over the try line on the 68th minute, extending Thurles' lead to a commanding 41-6. The home supporters now a little more relaxed as the game headed for the closing stages and victory was in sight.
However, Fethard, to their credit, never gave up. Despite the mounting odds against them, they displayed resilience and determination. In the dying moments of the match, Fethard managed to score a late consolation try, much to the delight of their large traveling crowd. The final whistle blew, and the score stood at 41-11 in favour of Thurles.
Thurles emerged as deserving champions of this Cup Double, showcasing their exceptional skill, teamwork, and tenacity throughout the match. Their clinical finishing and solid defence proved to be too much for Fethard to handle.
Final Score Thurles 2nd XV 41- 11 Fethard 2nd XV
Thurles RFC
15 Eamon Connolly, 14 Matthew Kelly, 13 Conor O Hagan, 12 Luke Fogarty, 11 James Devaney, 10 Nate Morehu, 9 Dylan Shaughnessy, 1 JJ Shoeman, 2 Darragh Sweeney, 3 Rob O Donovan, 4 Andrew Bourke, 5 Dwayne Stanley, 6 Joey Kelly, 7 Donncha Ryan ( c) 8 Conor Moloney, 16 Andrew Halloran 17, Ciaran Murphy, 18 Stephen Kirwin, 19 Ollie Delaney, 20 Richie Houlihan, 21 Tommy Connolly, 22 Brandon Meaney 23 Jack Kavanagh
Fethard RFC
Peter Wall, Jack Kelly, Robert Wall, Conor Pearson, James O Meara, Patrick Gaynor, Dale Murphy, John Hayden , Evan Looby, Jonathan Spliiane, Killian O Keefe, Andy Walsh, Emmett O Mahony. Patrick Griffin, Angus MacDonald
Give It A Try
Give it a Try continues this and every Wednesday at 7pm for Girls that want to play rugby. It is open to Girls aged 6 up to U16 years and there is no experience necessary. We have a team of coaches ready to show you everything you may need to know. Check the TRFC social media for more details
