Wicklow outgun Garda

THIS was the sixth match between these teams in the space of two seasons, and what a game! Wicklow kicked off with the wind at their backs. Garda knocked on and Wicklow applied pressure. After two turnovers, Ciara Patrick gave a flat pass to Alana Sheridan who went through the gap to give Wicklow an early try. The conversion was pushed just wide.

Wicklow scored early in their most previous game with Garda but never got back into the match, however, there was great determination this time round to prevent Garda from getting in easily.

Wicklow defended commendably, however they were heavily penalised.

Wicklow received a yellow card for being offside, but still they kept Garda out, making tackle after tackle. Garda remained in Wicklow’s 22 for over 20 minutes and were held up short of the line on numerous occasions.

Just before half-time Garda managed to break the strong Wicklow defence and went over for a seven-pointer. Their lead would have surely been greater had it not been for the massive defensive effort in the first half.

Wicklow regrouped at half-time and Alana Sheridan and Kayleigh Sullivan formed a new centre partnership.

Wicklow started the half with great purpose, Jess Schmidt had a great drive up the centre of the pitch.

The ball came to Leanne Sullivan who kicked ahead, the ball chased by Rachel Griffey who made the hit on the recipient. Ciara Patrick picked up the ball and passed to Kayleigh Sullivan who got the ball away to Amy O’Neill. O’Neill finished off a fantastic team try and the conversion was added.

Shortly after Wicklow scored again, the pack put in a great drive which was recycled quickly, and the ball was given to Alana Sheridan who showed brilliant strength to break the first tackle and then had the pace to score under the posts. Garda were down but far from out, they attacked relentlessly for the remaining 15 minutes.

Caitlin Griffey was putting immense pressure on Garda at the breakdown, however Garda were determined and eventually reached over for an unconverted try. Garda had one last attack for the last play of the game, but Wicklow held strong and kept them out. The final whistle saw the scores stand at 19-12 to the home side.

This performance saw Wicklow at their best. Although they had little possession, they made the most out of it and were dangerous in attack. The Wicklow defence was outstanding which made them worthy winners.

After the match two ‘Bank of Ireland Player of the Month’ awards were presented. Alana Sheridan won the honour for October. She is at her best this season both in attack and defence. The November award went to a deserving Caitlin Griffey, who gives 100 per cent in every match and displays great commitment and work rate.

Wicklow will now be focused on their away match against Tullow on Sunday 10th at 1 p.m. They need to hold on to the momentum from this week and prepare themselves for next weekend.

Wicklow tries: Alana Sheridan (2), Amy O’Neill (1)

Wicklow conversions: Ciara Patrick (2)