Wanderers leap forward
WEXFORD WANDERERS’ development took a leap forward on Sunday at Park Lane when the club fielded a men’s third XV for the first time in many years.
The club, which is reaping the benefits from its strong youths section over the past few years, is starting to retain players in its Senior ranks which has created a serious buzz.
The visitors were Arklow seconds who are also in rebuilding mode following a difficult few seasons. The game, which was played in difficult conditions, started with Wexford in the driving seat in all areas of the field.
The first try came from winger Seán Stewart who was released by Logue who drew in the Arklow defenders. Next up was Logue who rounded the Arklow wings before scoring under the posts to give Hudson an easy conversion.
The under pressure Arklow side tried to use the boot to relieve Wexford’s relentless attacks, but in the conditions kicking to touch or line-out throwing was always a difficult proposition. Prior to the interval both Stewart and Logue doubled their tallies to put the game beyond a contest.
In the second period Arklow hit back hard and well-drilled defensive play by Wanderers snuffed out these threats despite Arklow getting to within five metres of the line on at least two occaions.
Wanderers still had some gas left in the tank and Holloway added a try before the final whistle for a final score of 24-0.
The game certainly provided the Wexford side with what they wanted, a good run-out to get some game time prior to cup season. The hope is that the side will compete in the Anderson Cup later in the season.
The next action at Park Lane will be the outing of the second XV next Saturday in their final league outing of the season where they will battle it out with Enniscorthy to see who will finish second in the South East J2/J3 Leinster League.
The following day, Sunday, February 19, sees Wanderers’ first XV welcome Boyne to Park Lane in the opening round of the Provincial Towns Plate. The time for both fixtures is 3 p.m.
Meanwhile, the date for the club annual dinner dance in the Talbot Hotel has been announced as March 17 which will give rugby supporters an added reason to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day this year.
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Team: Reece Moore, Kevin Redmond, Jason Guirrine, David Kelliher, Rory O’Connor, Seán Redmond, Dave Martin, Tom Barry, Aaron Smythe, Tommy Hudson, Stevie Holloway, Maurice Logue, Rob Casey, Seán Stewart, Colm O Corcora. Subs. - Dermot Graham, James Byrne, James Bolger.