HAT-TRICK FROM PEAT KEEPS RAILWAY ON THE RIGHT TRACK

RETIRED Ireland prop Lindsay Peat kicked off Railway Union’s run of three unanswered second-half tries during a 24-5 bonus-point victory away to UL Bohemians. Railway began their Energia All-Ireland League Women’s Division title defence with a tough assignment, but Peat, who is now also the club’s scrum coach, steered them in the right direction. The Dubliners drew first blood through flanker Molly Boyne, but UL manufactured a tremendous 20-metre maul try, driving prop Geena Behan over to make it five points apiece at the break. Emerson Allen’s lineout steal, and a charging run by Lisa Callan, paved the way for Peat to restore Railway’s lead, yet it was not until the closing stages that John Cronin’s charges made certain of the result. Ireland Sevens international Anna McGann showed her speed to finish off an excellent 80-minute breakaway effort, before number 8 Deirdre Roberts converted some late pressure for try number four. Meanwhile, Ellen Connolly’s late try was converted by captain Nicole Fowley as Galwegians drew 31-31 with Suttonians at the Station Road venue. They surged into a 24-7 halftime lead thanks to tries from Sinead O’Brien, Lea Turner, Dearbhla Canty and out-half Fowley, who finished with 11 points. Australian recruit Annie Buntine and her new centre partner, Sutts skipper

Catherine Martin, got among the tries as Stephen Costelloe’s talented side recaptured the form which saw them win last season’s Conference crown. Nonetheless, there was still enough time for tighthead prop Connolly to cross right at the death and Fowley, just inside the 22 and to the left of the posts, held her nerve to land the levelling conversion. Ballincollig went down 85-10 at home to Old Belvedere. Dannah O’Brien kicked 10 conversions, while Clare Gorman (4) and skipper Deirbhile Nic a Bhaird (3) led the ‘Belvo try-scoring. Ireland’s Enya Breen made her Blackrock College debut during the second half of their 40-7 triumph over Cooke. Winger Anna Doyle completed a brace of touchdowns.