The Kerryman (South Kerry Edition)
Castleisland knocked out by late try
A QUIET weekend on the junior rugby scene saw just Castleisland taking to the field in competitive action. Cup competitions took centre stage last weekend with the Munster Junior Cup providing the local teams with an opportunity to progress.
Last weekend’s round two encounter with renowned top quality Cork side Midleton was always likely to be a tough encounter for the J2 side but that didn’t stop them from taking it to the Rebel side as Castleisland went in search of an elusive Munster Junior Cup victory.
The 18-11 loss was closer than the final score line suggests as Midleton ran in a try late on, but on the day the victors probably deserved their win.
The loss sees Castleisland out of this prestigious cup competition however there are bigger fights to fight next year as the club go in search of something resembling a positive league challenge.
There was some action in the ladies leagues with Listowel-Tralee seeing off Bantry Bay by 15-8 in the Girls Under-18 League Final. The club had less luck in the Girls Under-15 League Final when they lost to Carrick-Fethard by 1215. Kerry ladies and girls rugby is strong right now and all the signs are positive looking into the immediate future.
There was no action in Kanturk’s game with Tralee as the game failed to make it to the starting gates. It has been a difficult first half to the season for most Kerry clubs with Tralee, Killarney, Castleisland and Corca Dhuibhne all finding life tough in their respective divisions. For Killorglin it should be noted that they are holding their own in the J3 which is a great credit to that club and its players. Killorglin are still holding top spot in the J3 and look to have the measure of the sides around them however there is little doubt that promotion is a long way from being secured so there will be plenty of tough battles ahead before this one is put to bed.
In the J1, Abbeyfeale really have done the area proud as they continue to battle hard in the J1. After only securing their status in the J1 last year it would be easy to assume that the west Limerick side would have their work cut out for them to stay in the division however that pre-season fear seems to be unjustified as the club have battled their way up to seventh out of 14 in the mid-season table. If Abbeyfeale can continue this positive run of form there will be plenty big days ahead in the J1.
The New Year will see a host of big challenges ahead and for the local clubs a quick, positive start to 2017 will be required if relegations are to be avoided come seasons end. It is unlikely that many promotions are on the cards in 2017 however if any club can manage it next year it will likely be Killorglin who at this stage are the side to beat in the J3. There will be plenty fun and games in the upcoming months as the leagues and cups continue to throw up surprises at every level.