Super start for Arklow girls

ARKLOW RFC BARNHALL 24 10

ARKLOW RFC’s under-16 girls kicked off their league challenge against a physically larger Barnhall side last Saturday at home.

The scale of the task was evident when the Barnhall side took to the pitch, however the Arklow side, who were depleted by injuries and holidays, did not shirk away and faced into challenge.

Strong running from Prudence Isaac helped secure valuable ground into the Barnhall half with great support play from Lara Prestage, Aine Hendley allowing Arklow keep Barnhall defending their tryline for early part of the game.

This pressure eventually paid off when Jane Neill crashed over just to the left of the posts. Emer Cullen was successful with the conversion.

However Barnhall responded quickly and some indecision in the Arklow defence allowed them cross for a try almost immediately leaving the score at 7-5 to the home side.

The Arklow side quickly regrouped, centre Emma made a fantastic line break, hard work from Caoimhe Kelly Nolan and Clodagh Lee allowed quick second phase possession for Prudence Mabuza to cross over just before half time.

Arklow continued this work rate into second half. Emma Keane a constant threat with her line breaks.

The smaller pack of forwards from Arklow also managed to improve their srummaging in second half – credit to front row Ciara Moore, Leah Cecil and Kerri Cleary in this area – which gave excellent front foot possession allowing Mabuza score her second try of the day. Emer Cullen again successful with the conversion.

However, Arklow knew they could be complacent as the well drilled Barnhall side were a constant threat. This proved correct when the Dublin side crossed for a try after some handling errors from Arklow.

However, a final try from Mabuza, completing her hat-trick put the game beyond doubt despite a late try from Barnhall leaving the final score at 24-10.

This was an excellent start to their league campaign.