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WICKLOW RFC’S first team took on newly crowned All Ireland Junior Cup Champions Ashbourne in a dour Leinster League game at Ashtown Lane on Sunday.
The game was played on a wet and windy day with a strong breeze that favoured the away side in the opening half.
Wicklow started well and soaked up whatever pressure Ashbourne could exert. They defended well and kept the scoring opportunities to the absolute minimum. A penalty just before halftime was all the meathmen had to show for their efforts. 0-3 at the break.
With the wind at their backs for the second 40 minutes most observers would have fancied Wicklow to go on and win the game. Unfortunately, Wicklow produced a lacklustre and disappointing second half.
Ashbourne made and early breakthrough after a generally solid Wicklow defence was uncharacteristically breached. The conversion was missed but the away side led 0-8. Far from an unsurmountable lead given the conditions
Ashbourne to their credit held onto the ball well and defended very well.
Wicklow seemed intent on playing too much rugby in the abysmal conditions. They were