The Kerryman (South Kerry Edition)
Tralee upset the odds and Clonakilty to advance in Junior Cup
MUNSTER BANK OF IRELAND JUNIOR CUP Tralee 18 Clonakilty 17
TRALEE created a massive upset in the Munster Junior Cup when they knocked high flying Clonakilty out of the competition in the west Cork venue.
Tralee came into the game as distinct underdogs as they are struggling near the bottom of Division 3 in the league whilst Clonakilty are lying in second place at the top of Division 2.
Clonakilty had the benefit of the breeze in the first half but Tralee travelled with intent and soon put the home side under pressure. Their endeavour was rewarded with a try from Eoin O’Carroll who touched down in the corner with just 12 minutes gone on the clock.
Clonakilty responded quickly however, and Michael O’Regan scored a converted try for them to take a 7-5 lead with 25 minutes gone. Tralee didn’t let this set back deter them and Jack Quilter punished some Clonakilty indiscipline to slot home a good penalty on the stroke of half time to see Tralee take a 8-7 lead in at the break.
Tralee started the second half as they had finished the first and Quilter slotted over another penalty with 55 minutes gone. Clonakilty responded once more and they scored a try after Tralee failed to respond quickly enough to a quick tap penalty.
Soon afterwards a good rolling maul from the Clonakilty pack saw them score their third try through Downey to make it 17-11 with less than 10 minutes left in the game. It looked like Clonakilty had the game sown up but somehow Tralee found a way back and a great kick and chase from Fearghail O Nualain saw the winger touch down and Quilter duly slotted over to put them 18-17 ahead.
There was more drama to follow and with time almost up Clonakilty had a chance to snatch the game with a penalty but Deasy’s effort went wide and their chance was lost. The final whistle sounded soon afterwards and the Tralee players savoured a brilliant victory.