Killorglin beat RCD in thrilling Kerry derby

MUNSTER J-LEAGUE DIVISION 3

Killorglin 27 Rugbai Corca Dhuibhne 17

KILLORGLIN hold the local bragging rights after a good home win over Corca Dhuibhne in a middle of the table battle at Ballymalis last Sunday. The west Kerry side were at a serious disadvantage when they lined out with just 14 players, but great credit is due to them for the way that they battled against their opponents in what was a very tough and physical match.

Having said that, Killorglin certainly deserved their victory. They played with the wind in the first half and were first to strike when Tom Healy barged over.

Corca Dhuibhne took the initiative from the restart Caoilte Cumeen got them back on level terms with a well worked team try. Killorglin looked the better team and were making good yardage. Donough McGillycuddy restored their lead just before half time with a good try on the right hand side that Luke O’Shea converted with his usual precision to leave Killorglin 12-5 ahead at the break.

Corca Dhuibhne put the pressure on early in the second half and following several phases of attack were awarded a penalty try to level the contest at 12 a piece. Killorglin began to grasp the initiative once more afterwards, but Corca Dhuibhne defended heroically with Mike Walsh, Adam Daly, Brian Murphy, Nathan Flannery and Alan Devane especially prominent in this regard. The pressure eventually told, and Luke O’Shea slotted over a penalty to push his side 15-12 in front.

Corca Dhuibhne legs were visibly tiring and with the advantage of the extra player, Killorglin soon put the contest to bed. Rob Lynch put the nail in their coffin with two more tries, one converted by O’Shea, to put the result beyond doubt. The Corca Dhuibhne spirit was still shining brightly though, and Brian Murphy struck for a try with time running out.

It was too little too late and Killorglin finished as deserving winners. Killorglin also had the welcome sight of Dave Hayden making his comeback to the side.