Rathdrum make up for poor show last season

but despite the home sides best efforts, Rathdrum were soon attacking in the Edenderry 22. And indeed it wasn’t long before the first score was to come Rathdrum’s way. Following a strong turn over from flanker Neasa Clissman, Heather Cullen darted across the line to open the scoreboard. The try was easily converted by Mo Dowling and Rathdrum’s feathers were up.

For the next quarter Rathdrum did not allow Edenderry escape their 22, however, they did not manage to capitalise on this extended stay. Edenderry, with a notably heavier pack but perhaps greener backline than Rathdrum, marched towards the Rathdrum 22. However, their inexperience on the outside was cleverly exposed by winger Caitlin Olohan, who intercepted the pass to happily sprint the 75m to the tryline and score beneath the posts. The half closed 14–0 with Rathdrum determined.

As anticipated, Edenderry reappeared from the break with a new lease of life and enthusiasm and they were quickly hammering on the Rathdrum line. In true Edenderry style they piled their forwards to drive across the Rathdrum line. The conversion was not to be.

Rathdrum found answer in the form of full back Orla Redmond, who, not to be outdone, also intercepted a loose pass from Edenderry. Similarly, she merrily sprinted the 75m to the tryline, and, with Dowling’s conversion the visitors now sat at 21-5. Edenderry had one last bash at the Rathdrum defense, and Rathdrum were found perhaps wanting. They drove once more across the Rathdrum tryline to close the game 21-10.

The women now build towards next Sunday when they invite Railway Union to the Ivy Leaf Grounds.

Squad: Lindsey Madge, Hannah Fennell, Aine Geoghegan, Nikki Fennell, Noelle Ward, Neasa Clissman, Kellie Fennell, Ann-Marie Burke, Heather Cullen, Mo Dowling (C), Caitlin Olohan, Sammy McCoy, Sue Brady, Lisa Cahill, Orla Redmond, Steph Burch, Heidi Keogh, Sarah Miley, Nicola Souster, Patricia Byrne, Vickie Doyle.