Plenty of positives for Wicklow after big win

MULLINGAR WICKLOW 17 62

THIS was a fine performance for Wicklow with plenty of positives.

The pack, when they got going, were very good in the loose, and provided quick ball to the back line who capitalised on the match being reduced to 13-a-side.

Both sides are in transition, Wicklow welcoming new players from the u18s and Mullingar having lost some top players since last season.

The first half was evenly matched, Wicklow got two quick tries; firstly the outstanding Saoirse O’Reilly, converted by Erin McConnell, who had a fantastic game. The second try was scored by Hannah-Rose Buckley, following a great line break.

Niamh O’Leary touched down for a great try, after McConnell was just stopped short, with O’Leary on her shoulder. Kayleigh O’Sullivan got her first try of the game soon after.

Mullingar struck by at Wicklow twice, by their number 23 Nicki Feary. She was a stand out player on the day for Mullingar, very fast and elusive.

The second half saw Wicklow pull away, Vicky Rice scored, along with Kayleigh O’Sullivan and Saoirse O’Reilly, who scored a hat-trick respectively.

Mullingar scored again, through their number 10 which was well deserved. Amy O’Neill, unfortunately, suffered an injury and was taken to hospital. She had been outstanding in both attack and defence, and we wish her a speedy recovery.

Wicklow have been on a roll in their run up to the league and they were impressive in this first league clash.

Defensively, Wicklow have aspects to work on, they were too porous against Mullingar and it forced try-saving tackles to be made. This could be food for thought going forward this season.

Tries: Hannah-Rose Buckley 1, Niamh O’Leary 1, Vicky Rice 1, Saoirse O’Reilly 4, Kayleigh O’Sullivan 3

Conversions: Erin McConnell 3, Leanne O’Sullivan 3