Big win for Killarney in the derby

MUNSTER JUNIOR LEAGUE DIVISION 3

Killarney 34 Killorglin 10

DERBIES can throw up some classic encounters, or else the games can be rather one sided.

Unfortunately, the latter was the case in this game, as Killarney showed why they are riding high at the top of Division 3 with a comprehensive victory over local rivals Killorglin.

The game was the first ever rugby contest played at the Barraduff Community pitch and both sides went at each other from the start. The Barraduff pitch was a credit to the Killarney club ad was in excellent shape despite the heavy rain of the previous days.

A nervous opening from both sides saw a number of handling errors and turnovers, but Killorglin’s Luke O’Shea was the first to strike with a penalty after a strong scrum forced Killarney into the concession of the penalty.

Killarney began to get into their rhythm and Mike Henderson crossed for a good unconverted try to push his side 5-3 ahead. The game was ebbing and flowing midway through the first half, and Killorglin were next to strike when Dave Hayden crossed over the line. O’Shea converted once more, and the away side now led by 10-3.

There was still time for more drama in the first half and Killarney’s Peter Kelly crossed the line for a good try with Paudie Sheehan converting to see the sides go in at 10 points apiece at the half time break.

Whilst the first half was a nip and tuck affair, the second half was a much different story with Killarney completely dominating the game. Killorglin’s lack of replacement on the bench certainly came against them as Killarney took full advantage of the visitor’s tiring limbs.

Man of the match Brendan Fuller struck for two good tries, with his second coming after a great break from Aaron Jones. Two minutes later Paul O’Sullivan went over the line. Killarney were rampant now, and in time added on Darragh Roche struck for Killarney’s fourth try to seal the win and a valuable bonus point for his side.

Killarney now join Tralee at the top of the J3 table on 29 points, whilst Killorglin slip to seventh place with 14 points with seven games played. With just three games left to play the Killarney lads are in with a serious chance of promotion to Division 2.