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| 1st XV 2007-08 |
| Last Updated
: 27/04/08 |
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LATEST 1st XV NEWS
A
Stroll in the Sun!
Instonians 69 QUB 17
This was a great result against a QUB team which
had given us a very close race through the season.
The students were forced to field an under-strength
side, but Instonians had also to make several
crucial changes. We had lost Jamie Scott and Richard
Fegan through injury, and our excellent back row,
Steven Corr has gone to New Zealand for a development
season, so Scott Uren moved from back row to centre,
where he played a very good game (also turning
up at scrum half, wing, full back and flanker
throughout the match.) Adam Glass came into the
pack and Josh Devitt, who showed all his lightning
pace in attack and crucially in defence, came
in on the wing.
As the score shows, Instonians were allowed to
cross the line almost at will. They played adventurous,
open flowing rugby, and, following the pattern
of the season, our fast and aggressive forwards
claimed many of the tries. That is not to belittle
the backs. Rather it is a testament to the team
spirit of this side, and very few players took
too much out of the ball or showed any sign of
greed, but were selfless and generous in their
passes. Michael McKeever, for example, has a had
a great season for the club - in fact his departure
from the field through injury at Waterpark was
a major contribution to that near fatal defeat
- but the fact that he did not appear in this
try count is no reflection on his attacking skills.
The players once again looked as if they were
really enjoying themselves, none more so than
John Gardiner, who sold an outrageous dummy to
score beneath the posts, the second of his personal
tally.
Also to cross the line for a brace were Darren
Lyttle, David O’Hara and Scott Uren, while
Adam Glass, the excellent Gary Mitchell (who gave
the students a very hard lesson in the front row)
and Josh Devitt also claimed scores. Owen McMurray
landed seven conversions.
Instonians lost by the narrowest of margins to
Bruff earlier in the season, and there is no reason
why they cannot claim the victory next week at
Donnybrook, if they continue to play like this.
Happy days are here again!
INSTONIANS 40 CONNEMARA 10
Instonians
deservedly gained a place in Division Two with
a convincing win over a gutsy Connemara side
at Shaw's Bridge on Saturday.
A very good crowd turned up hoping to witness
an Instonian victory, and they were rewarded with
a great all round performance, despite the wet
and windy conditions and a very heavy pitch. The
team played to its collective potential, with
a combination of concentration, control and commitment.
The work ethic was obvious but every player looked
as if he was enjoying himself, and gave us a great
display of skill and flair. The fact that of the
six tries, three came from backs and three from
forwards reflects the all-round strength of the
team.

Richard Fegan, whose return from Malone has been
a welcome addition to the club, has matured as
a player during the season, and his hunger, speed
and skill claimed two tries. Adam Telford added
to his impressive scoring tally when he finished
off a break by Davy O’Hara, who has proved
to be a consistent and energetic scrum-half. The
hard-working and abrasive Darren Lyttle crossed
the line from a five metre scrum, and the strength
in depth at prop was reflected in a score from
Chris Good. It was fitting that Wilbur Leacock
who has been a corner-stone of the team, finished
the try count.

Well
done to all concerned. There has been some great
rugby played by this squad, and considerable
strength of character was required to recover
from stumbles along the way. It was a marvellous
day for the club and it was great to hear ’A
Score’ and ’Rickity’ echoing
through the Shaw‘s Bridge. We look forward
to the play-offs and more especially to continued
success next year, as this young and talented
side develops still further.
Down
to the wire - BUT, it's in our hands!
Corinthians 7 - Instonians 20
This
was a great result in a part of the world that has
proved the downfall of recent Instonian teams, and
everyone involved should be very proud that they
have the chance of promotion within their grasp
on Saturday.
Instonians won the toss and played
into the wind, and began the game with control and
composure, retaining the ball well. Although Corinthians
threatened to take advantage of the wind during
several periods of the first half, the defence was
sure, and Instonians were first to appear on the
scoreboard, when Adam Telford intercepted a pass
to sprint from deep inside his own half to score.
His form has been one of the features of the season,
and he ranks third in the top try-scorers' list
in AIL Division 3.
Unfortunately a missed penalty kick to touch, followed
by a missed tackle allowed Corinthians to come back
into the match and attack our line. Our indiscipline
at a ruck gave the home side a penalty, which they
took quickly and the resulting score was converted
to make the score 5-7. Instonians responded well
and Corinthians infringed following a run from Richard
Fegan. Niall Malone kicked the penalty to allow
us to regain the lead 8-7. A good period of play
ensued just before half time.
Everybody played to their peak, displaying correct
decision-making, great concentration, determination
and skill, which culminated in an overall magnificent
team performance with forwards and backs playing
high quality rugby. After good forward effort, quick
and skilful handling from the backs allowed Michael
McKeever to cross for an unconverted try, so that
Instonians went in at the break 7-13, seemingly
a comfortable cushion for a second half playing
with a strong wind.
Straight from the kick-off in
the second half, we lost the opportunity to gain
dominance and field position because of bad tackling.
We failed to use the wind blowing with us from right
to left by allowing them to dictate that the game
was played on our right wing. However last ditch
defence and sheer will to win kept us in it.
Instonians struggled to obtain any possession, but
significantly Corinthians were not able to convert
their pressure into points. Eventually we found
a phase a play in which the forwards used strength,
determination and technique in the rucks and the
backs moved the ball with intelligence, and a series
of phases ended as Niall Malone gave a very nice
pass to Mark Wilson who scored between the posts.
The try was converted for a score of 7-20
The team
has displayed loads of quality and commitment but
with that must draw on sustained concentration to
produce the beautiful combined forwards and backs
rugby played in the last ten minutes to beat Carlow,
and before half time to beat Corinthians.
This is
a good team which can face the challenge to be winners
on Saturday.
Glory
- seconds from disaster!
Instonians
24 - Co.Carlow 20
This knife-edge result has kept Instonians
in the hunt for promotion, and it was a well-won
victory, with the final touch of the match securing
the win.
After a couple of unfortunate defeats, there
was an obvious anxiety in the team, and perhaps
it was the fear factor which led to an error-strewn
start to the game. Playing with the wind in
the first half we missed several opportunities
through missed passes and turnover ball, although
an early good run from Mark Wilson supported
by Niall Malone gave us the cushion of an quick
lead in the first 10 minutes. About ten minutes
later, a good piece of forward work arising
from a secure lineout from Kenny and some good
work from the front row, allowed Davy O’Hara,
who had an excellent game, to squeeze through
a gap to score again and bring the match to
14-0.
The supporters started to smile and consider
the possibility of a vital bonus point.
But shortly afterwards, a lack of concentration
allowed Carlow straight back into the match
and the score of 14-7, with the wind, did not
seem so comfortable. Carlow really began to
believe in themselves, their physicality increased
in contrast to ours, and they buffeted our line.
Crucially we lost Scott Uren and Darren Lyttle
to the sin bin. This was an unlucky turn of
affairs, as the home spectators felt that Carlow
had been infringing for most of the match, and
our players’ misdemeanours did not seem
to reflect the balance of the match.
The period after half time for the 13 men on
the pitch was vital, and the fact that they
did not concede during this time, speaks volumes
for the character and perseverance of the side.
Perversely, once our numbers returned to 15,
we lost our edge and again concentration and
allowed Carlow in for a fairly soft try, to
make the score a very nervy 14-12.
Our forwards upped their performance and the
scrum began to dominate, aided by the return
of Chris Schofield. It was a set of good scrums
which allowed Davy to put away Adam Telford.
The pass was slightly impeded by the referee,
and it was a matter of judgement as to whether
Adam squeezed in at the corner, but thankfully
the try was given. 19-12 and we breathe slightly
more easily.
But this was a short relief as Carlow battled
on and another slightly erratic decision gave
them a penalty. They scored from the maul from
the lineout and the score went to 19-17 with
about fifteen minutes to go.
The next period was one of grim determination.
As Carlow recycled and recycled and as their
coaches urged them to be patient, we gave them
a penalty, which they converted. 20-17 and many
at the ground feared that that was the end of
the season’s hopes.
But happily the boys persisted in their own
belief, and Instonians played intelligently
in the last moments, keeping the ball in hand,
using forwards and backs with control and patience,
and finally Niall Malone switched the ball to
the blind side and Richard Fegan, as only he
can, with great hunger, skill and determination
eluded Carlow’s defence to score in the
corner in the final seconds. Soccer style celebrations
followed as his fellow players fell upon him
in joy and relief.
The next two games must be won but the team
and management must congratulate themselves
on this lucky escape.
Oops!
Waterpark 28 Instonians 27
This was a vital match which Instonians should
and could have won but which Waterpark did not
deserve to lose. Instonians were unlucky to meet
a Waterpark team revitalised by a recent change
of coach, a club man who is acting in an unpaid
capacity, and who has found a formula for success.
Although our boys tried hard, in too many situations
Waterpark were more aggressive and competitive.
Fifty-fifty balls tended to go their way, our
first up tackling was often not good enough, there
were too many turnovers, and our tally of forced
and unforced errors was higher than usual. Once
again, we kicked away possession, and once again
we proved that when we kept the ball in our hands
we were a dynamic force.
We stuttered to begin with and were 10 nil down
before we really got our hands on the ball. A
couple of lineouts had gone astray (though the
lineouts recovered well in the second half) and
Waterpark had maintained good pressure. Eventually
we decided to move the ball effectively and with
speed and scored two good tries from Malone and
Scott to go in at half time 10.12. Unfortunately,
Michael McKeever, who along with the skilful and
pacy runner, Richard Fegan, had looked hungry
and competitive, was injured and had to leave
the pitch. Subsequently our mid field defence
looked much more vulnerable.
In the second half, the pattern seemed to continue.
The Waterpark team grew in confidence and lucky
bounces and pressure opened a hefty gap in their
favour but to the boys’ credit they fought
back and when two more tries by Mitchell and Simpson
were added to our haul, giving us the bonus point
it looked very much as if we were going to win
the day. Somehow or other, a lack of concentration
led to a very late try for Waterpark, and as we
tried to claw back a victory, a vital penalty
goal was missed. Desperately, we attacked their
line and were able to recycle the ball effectively,
before Malone attempted but failed to slot a drop
goal and the final whistle blew. Two bonus points
gained, but it should have been a win, which,
given the other results, would have left us in
a much more secure position.
The boys will once more be feeling very disappointed,
but if they play to their strengths they can seize
the victory.
A Close Run Thing!
Bruff 6 Instonians 5
This was a hard-earned bonus point, which could
easily have been a deserved away victory. The
boys will have been disappointed by the defeat,
but every individual played well, and they should
be proud of the performance and look forward to
the remaining games of the season.
Instonians started very well with the wind and
quickly imposed themselves, as the forwards took
it to the opposition and the backs made incisive
incursions. However, it quickly became apparent
that we were going to play a kicking game, and
throughout the match many kicks were not well
executed. The tone was set when Chris Schofield,
having started one of his trade-mark rumbles chose
to kick, instead of continuing to carry.
A
good period of play followed and what would have
been a deserved try was prevented when "Scho"
was held short of the line. Shortly afterwards,
good interplay between backs and forwards, finished
off by Richard Fegan, gave us a 0-5 lead. This
promised well and demonstrated that Bruff’s
renowned defence could be breached by spreading
the ball. Bruff is a good all round team without
any starry players. They have excellent set pieces
and they look comfortable moving the ball. But
our set pieces are just as good, if not better,
and there were points at which we had their pack
under pressure but did not push the pressure through
to domination.
In
the critical period before half time, Bruff put
us under enormous pressure, and although we held
out with stout defence and determination, penalties
became inevitable and Adam Telford was sent to
the sin bin. In his absence in the second half,
Bruff astutely kicked to the his wing and two
penalties were conceded for off-side offences
making the score 6-5.
Bruff
now gained in stature and looked like a composed
and competent team who knew what was required.
Instonians might have chosen the option to retain,
retain and re-cycle, but again pursued the kicking
route which resulted in the Bruff back three running
it back at us. In fact we found it hard to get
out of our half in the second half. Close to the
end, a break-away gave us the opportunity for
a penalty to seize the victory. Heart-breakingly,
the penalty was missed and we were forced to leave
with the consolation of a vital bonus point.
Nearly
"All's Well that ends Well."
Instonians
38 Sunday's Well 13
A good win, six tries and a much needed bonus
was a fine result for Instonians on a windy
Saturday, but although there was much to applaud
in the performance, the boys will know themselves
that they can raise their game further, and
only poor finishing by the visitors kept the
winning margin healthy.
Sunday's
Well played with the strong wind behind them
and Instonians spent much of the first half
in our own 22.The Munster pack was big, combative
and played as a unit, while our forwards too
often played as individuals and we lost some
of the cohesive strength. Our set pieces were
not as consistent as usual. In the scrums,
we were not favoured by the interpretation
of the laws, and in the lineouts the gusty
conditions made long throws difficult to control.
Although we did achieve some turnover ball,
spectators felt that we did not take it to
them enough. Instonians spent much of the
first half tackling. There were many excellent
tackles and quite a few terrible misses.
The two early tries were against the run of
play. In the first, Niall Malone took an interception
deep within his own half and with no support
play had no option but to run the length of
the pitch and score beneath the posts. The
conversion was slotted by Owen McMurray. For
the second try, a fine break by winger Adam
Telford was finished off by Darren Lyttle.
This was not converted and with two Sunday's
Well penalties forced by forward pressure
the score at half time was 12-6.
In
the second half, the expectation was that
Instonians, with the wind behind them, would
play for position, but in fact we continued
to run it, even from within our own 22, a
high risk strategy. The forwards began to
come into their own, and the next two tries
were scored by Scott Uren, from drives from
the pack. Wilbur Leacock took an opportunist
try from a Sunday's Well mistake at the front
of the line-out, and as the result now seemed
certain, the reserves took to the field. The
visitors seized the opportunity for a consolation
try, but in the final moments Michael McKeever
crossed the line to extend the points tally.
The next game is the crunch match away to league
leaders Bruff. The Munster side have only conceded
an average of four points per game in the leagure.
By all accounts our boys are quite capable of
beating them, but we will need to apply the
controlled power and aggression of eight forwards
playing together, and feeding our talented and
speedy backs to achieve the result. And we will
need to tackle, tackle and tackle again.
Back
on Track?
City of Derry 7 Instonians 29
All
credit to Clem and his management team for getting
the side moving again after a disappointing
post-Christmas display at Banbridge. While the
engine did not seem to operate quite as smoothly
as before the break, this was a much better
performance and the boys appeared much more
hungry and determined. Instonians played to
their strengths and used the fast-running backs
to good effect, and the large travelling contingent
of supporters went home more hopeful of a positive
outcome to the season.
The
score, however, slightly flatters Instonians,
as the home side fought hard, and enjoyed good
spells of possession and territorial advantage.
Derry were unable to capitalise on that and
now find themselves struggling. Ulster rugby
would be the losers if the north-west side went
down, and we wish them well for their remaining
games.
The
only change to the line-up for this game was
the return of Niall Malone at out-half while
Owen McMurray started at full back. The good
conditions enabled a fast running game and it
was not long before the speed and quick-thinking
of forward and back combined, as Scott Uren
made a good break to allow Richard Fegan to
finish in the corner. Not long after, Richard,
who looked as if he was enjoying himself, eluded
several Derry tackles to sprint to the line
for a second well-taken try. Owen converted
this try and added a penalty to leave a satisfactory
0-15 scoreline at half time.
Crowd-pleaser Chris Schofield pulled off one
of his bullocking runs from far out and after
a couple of nifty interchanges, finished it
off himself, crossing the line to his own delight
and that of the Instonian faithful. Owen again
converted. Adam Telford will think himself unlucky
not to have added to his personal try tally,
as, after a very good passage of play and strong
finish to cross the line, he was judged to have
stepped into touch.
For some reason, the Instonian scrum did not
enjoy its usual dominance in the second half,
and as Derry began to pile on the pressure Mitchell
and Schofield were replaced in the front row
by Simpson and Good. Although both are excellent
replacements, it was noticeable that a couple
of line-outs following the substitution were
lost, perhaps because of less effective lifting.
Derry’s pressure resulted in a converted
try, but Michael McKeever, who had a very good
game, clinched the valuable bonus point crashing
over for a try which Owen converted.
A good result, intelligently captained by Wilbur,
but he will need to ensure that every player
matches his own work rate for every minute of
the game, if we are to succeed. There are too
many turnovers on the ground and the first-up
tackling is still not urgent enough, but it
was a satisfactory performance on which to build.
Fetch
the Jump-leads!
Banbridge 19 Instonians 8
Banbridge started the match with urgency, attack,
physical intensity and determination. They played
to a well-defined match plan which suited their
capacity and strengths. Instonians started the
match tentatively, sluggishly and without speed
or impact. For the first ten minutes, they did
not move from their own 22 and it was only the
tackling of Scott Uren and missed penalties
from Banbridge which prevented the score rising
at a point a minute.
The Instonian supporters who had travelled
in decent numbers buoyed after the 78 pointer
against Midleton, experienced a worrying feeling
of déjà vu and those who had anxiously
expressed their doubts about a four week break
from competitive matches for the team as a unit,
felt that their worst fears were justified.
Once again in Instonians’ recent history,
the team has come out of a Christmas period
looking very rusty, slow of thought and foot
and with their physical sharpness reduced. Although
all the boys tried hard, and bravely endured
long sessions of Banbridge pressure without
conceding, there was no cohesion, and even the
best players made uncharacteristic mistakes.
Although starved of ball on the ground - Banbridge
were well organised and more aggressive in ruck
and maul - Instonians could have had enough
ball to let our backs move effectively, and
it would appear that the home team could not
have coped with the sheer pace of our backs.
Our line-out was always decent, and although
we struggled in the scrum to begin with, by
the second half, our forwards had remembered
what it was like to play in a competitive match
and had begun to assert themselves in their
customary fashion. But our tactics continued
to play to Banbridge’s strengths and runners
from the back of the scrum, and forwards running
in the middle of the field were constantly turned
over. The kicking game plan was hard to fathom.
In addition, as players became more and more
frustrated, we gave away a lot of foolish penalties
which allowed Banbridge to run up the score
board, and deny us any hope of even an away
bonus. For the record, Adam Telford scored a
well taken try, which was typical of the play
of most of the season, but that was a rare bright
spot in an otherwise bleak afternoon.
However, this is a side of considerable mental
strength and team spirit, as well as talent
and skill, and they should put Saturday behind
them and go on to make us proud and secure the
results the players deserve.
Festive
Feast
Instonians 78 Midleton 3
Celebrity chef and Instonian, Paul Rankin,
was a popular speaker at the pre-match lunch
on Saturday, but not many supporters could have
anticipated the feast of rugby which the Firsts
cooked up against a bullish Midleton side. Few
can remember a 78 point victory in a competitive
match, and it brings the club back to even standing
with Bruff.
There
are several important factors about this resounding
result.
- It was the first time for weeks that the
conditions suited our backs and the speed
and power of the runners was awesome.
- Midleton were a predictably aggressive Munster
side, and as the afternoon wore on they became
more frustrated and more aggressive. Instonians
were more than a match for the physicality
of the visitors.
- The team continued to play for each other.
Even at the end, when it would have been tempting
to go for a personal try tally, players unselfishly
gave well-timed passes. There was evidence
that each player knew their role and executed
it. This is particularly pleasing as there
are several big personalities in this team,
but the collective work ethic is strong.
- This team is fit.
Despite the one-sided result, it took Instonians
a little while to get into a pattern, and there
were mistakes and over-elaboration, but once
the forwards established their supremacy, there
was only going to be one winner. Again the try-scoring
honours were shared by forwards and backs, which
is indicative of the balance of this team, and
they were claimed (I think) by Gary Mitchell
(the first two!) Darren Lyttle, Wilbur Leacock,
Richard Fegan, Scott Uren (2) David O’Hara,
Mark Wilson, Adam Telford and Owen MacMurray.
There was excellent vocal support for the home
side. In the next two weeks we play Harlequins
and Derry in the Ulster League, before a very
important game against Banbridge in AIL on 12th
January. The boys would appreciate - and deserve
- a lot of support.
Undefeated
Instonians
38 - Nenagh 15
The lunchtime supporters were treated to a
rare visit from a poet, as Michael Longley,
a former pupil and ex-teacher of RBAI, addressed
the diners to great appreciation.
Outside, the conditions would have tested the
descriptive powers of any writer, as the wind
and rain lashed across the Shaw’s Bridge
pitch. Although the weather was atrocious, the
surface was in good condition, and Instonians,
having won the toss, opted to play into the
gale. They are getting accustomed to having
to deal wisely with the elements this season.
Although most observers would have expected
a close, dour encounter, Instonians began the
game by spreading the ball, and within four
minutes Jamie Scott had broken from the 22,
and the ball passed from Owen MacMurray to Adam
Telford for a try.
Not long after Josh Devitt kicked the ball
ahead, and Michael McKeever’s skill and
handling led to a second try which was converted
by Owen.
The third try was a trademark forwards effort,
as a drive from a lineout, with superb power
and control from the forwards, led to a try
for Wilbur Leacock.
The game now developed into a scrappy phase.
Nenagh applied a lot of pressure and although
Instonian defence was stout, the indiscipline,
which must be guarded against, led to number
of penalties, one of which was converted by
Nenagh. Nenagh are a team with a lot of fine
qualities, organisation and aggression, and
they probably felt that they were unlucky to
be going in 14 down at half time.
Stephen Corr and Josh Devitt were forced off
by injury, and the strength in depth was evident
in the vital fourth bonus point try, when replacement
John Gardiner was involved in a good move which
combined the skills of Davy O’Hara, Niall
Malone and finally the excellent Scott Uren,
who scored.
The fifth try was claimed by Niall Malone,
but after that the game deteriorated. Some shape
was lost by substitutions, and Nenagh battled
away ferociously enough to gain two tries, to
leave the score at 38-15.
This was a great result. The backs looked sharp
and fast. They played for each other and for
the most part tackled well. There is a lot of
talent out there. The forwards were once again
magnificent. Scott worked tirelessly and his
technique is excellent. Wilbur leads by example
and is inspirational and astute. Darren imposed
his purposeful aggression. The team looked very
happy in the club house afterwards and they
deserved to do so.
Congratulations
to the coaching team of Clem, Niall and Jarrett.
There is a cohesion, strength and structure
about the team’s performance. Just keep
up the concentration!
Still Unbeaten
Naas 3 Instonians 7
Once
again, the conditions played a dominant role
in a hard-fought encounter with a determined
Naas side.
Instonians played with the wind in the first
half, and began well. The customary dominance
in the scrum was quickly established and in
the opening period there were several opportunities
for push over tries. Such was the ascendancy,
that it looked as if a four try bonus point
was a strong possibility. Despite effort and
pressure, we were stopped short of the line
on many occasions, however, and it was only
when we spread it wide and gave the backs a
chance that we managed to break the deadlock
with a good try in the corner by ‘Rusty’
Fagan, who has joined the club from Malone this
season. Owen McMurray slotted a fine touchline
conversion to make it 0-7.
It was worrying that Naas were in contention
at half time with the wind advantage to come.
Although we dominated the scrums, we never put
their line-out under pressure, which allowed
them to stay in the game.
In the second half the home team kicked, but
we ran it well in counter-attack and came close
to scoring on a couple of occasions. To add
to the anxiety, it looked for a while that indiscipline
might cost us dearly with a referee, who was
keen to give penalties, but we settled down,
and it was good to see a level of maturity and
control.
In the last period the determination not to
lose was epitomised by the driving of Wilber,
and astute tactics ensured that we held out.
This was the sort of game that we have thrown
away in recent seasons, so it is most heartening
to record a deserved win at Naas. Well done
to the boys and thanks to the travelling Instonians
supporters who added to the occasion.
Another
win - just!
Instonians 22 Queen’s 21
This vital top of the table encounter left
Instonians joint top of the table with Bruff,
but trailing on points difference.
It was a hard-fought victory, in which the
conditions were a major factor. A stiff wind
gave QUB the edge in the first half, but by
the interval the wind had more or less disappeared
and a steady heavy downpour negated the skill
of the two talented sets of backs and allowed
the power of the Instonians pack to dominate.
At the start of the match, both sides attempted
to play some running rugby, and Queen’s
were also able to capitalise on the wind advantage
with some intelligent kicking. However, handling
errors on both sides led to a disrupted phase
and indiscipline allowed Queen’s the first
strike with a penalty. Instonians struck back
with a good try from Darren Lyttle who played
a purposeful, combative game. It came from a
five metre scrum, and it was an early sign of
Instonians’ strength. The try was not
converted.
Despite this, the next try came with a students’
catch and drive from a lineout, an advantage
which sprang from a mix-up in the Instonians
three-quarters. The Queen’s kicker slotted
the conversion to make it 5-10.
The match developed into a series of forward
tussles, with the home side maintaining the
upper hand. But pressure was not converted into
points and from a series of mistakes, Queen’s
were able to regain territory, and they were
able to capitalise as they moved wide from a
scrum and scored in the corner. It was a difficult
day for kickers - and for hookers’ throws
- and the visitors’ try was not converted.
5-15.
Owen managed to slot a penalty shortly before
half time, and for a while both teams tried
to play a kicking game. A needless penalty in
the Instonians’ 22 gave the students a
half time lead of 8-18. The wind could have
been assessed as a ten-pointer, but for some
reason it faded, and Instonians were faced with
bucketing rain and a difficult deficit to overcome.
As the match degenerated in the backs with
scrappy ball and kicks directed at the QUB wings,
the front five came into their own and the final
result of the match belongs to them, as their
technique, strength and guile prevailed. Darren
Lyttle claimed another try from another scrum
and Owen converted. 15-18
Queen’s claimed another penalty to open
the gap again, 15-21, but shortly before the
final whistle Niall Malone gathered a loose
ball and sprinted over to score a surprising
try which delighted the home crowd. His conversion
gave the victory 22-21.
‘Never
in doubt,’ agreed the Instonians faithful.
Good points: the magnificent work of
the pack; the ability, once again to come from
behind; an evidently strong sense of teamwork;
making correct leadership decisions; fitness.
Needs
to be worked on: first up tackling (look
at our points against); kicking to the attacking
backs; needless penalties.
But well done. A very good result.
Another
Bonus point Win!
Ards 13 Instonians 31
Instonians deserved the win and the bonus point
after a gutsy and controlled performance against
a good Ards team.
With
Wilbur back from injury the front row had its
familiar formidable appearance, and changes
to the backs meant that Niall Malone went to
full back, while Owen McMurray resumed at out
half, a combination which allowed Niall to make
several excellent runs from deep. Josh Devitt
returned to the wing. Instonians are fortunate
to have considerable strength in depth this
season and on most weeks we start with an excellent
bench of subs.
The
home team had the wind in the first half, but
although Ards played well they did not do enough
to impose themselves upon the game. They notched
up ten points, before half time. When an Ards
player was yellow-carded, Instonians pressed
hard with waves of attacks against a resolute,
if desperate defence, but did not manage to
convert the pressure into points, and we wondered
was it going to be one of those days, but just
before the interval whistle, Adam Telford went
over on the wing, Owen converted and the half
time score was 10-7.
In the second half Instonians came out with
determination, but after ten minutes, a serious
injury to Mark Wilson forced the game to be
halted for thirty minutes. We are glad to learn
that the problem is tissue damage, and wish
Mark well for a speedy recovery. As the players
came back on to the field, the light faded and
the wind increased a little, and Instonians
tightened the pressure with a series of very
powerful forward drives. Another yellow card
for Ards intensified the problems for the home
team, and two John Gardiner tries and one each
for Michael McKeever and Adam Telford led to
the much-valued bonus point.
Lots
of positives from this performance. There was
plenty of hunger on the pitch, exemplified by
the work rate of Stephen Corr. There was a composure
and control which should bode well for the future.
Yet again, the team came back from being points
down. The forwards played with strength, passion
and concentration and the backs look very hard
to stop when they are going forward. Jamie Scott
had a very good match.
On the negative side, we need to improve our
start, to impose ourselves from the beginning
and to cut out early indiscipline. There was
a tendency to stand back from the first-up tackle,
especially in the first half, and the disruption
of rhythm caused by substitution needs to be
guarded against.
When Ards beat Instonians towards the end of
last season the web report spoke of ‘abject
defence’ and ‘lack of pride’.
That was certainly not the case yesterday, but
the key to this year is to keep the momentum
and the concentration.
Top of the table
Instonians 34 Rainey O.B. 22
At the lunch before Instonians’ match against
Rainey Old Boys, around twenty former captains
joined the diners. While they will have enjoyed
the result, one or two of them may have shaken
their wise old heads over several aspects of the
game.
This
was a good Instonians performance, and the vital
bonus point has brought us to the top of the
league, but it was a very hard-won match against
a gritty Rainey side. The need for enforced
changes had given selection problems, but in
the end the chosen side worked well, with a
front row of Schofield, Good and Mitchell, with
Gary throwing at the lineout. Inevitably, the
lineout was not quite as effective as usual,
although Gary coped manfully. The odd crooked
throw was not as damaging as it might have been
as the Instonian scrum was so strong that Rainey
was denied clean ball.
Throughout the game discipline proved to be a
problem, and early penalties were exchanged. Owen
MacMurray, returning to the 1sts, slotted the
first, a Rainey infringement which was forced
by urgent Instonian chasing but Rainey replied
with two soon after and Darren Lyttle was sin-binned.
The
experiment of using Adam Telford on the wing
seems to be bearing fruit with improvement in
ball retention, and he got the first of a brace
of tries finishing well from a good break from
Scott Uren. Scott continues to add a strong
attacking element to the side, although in this
match he was a little careless in the offload
on a couple of occasions. Adam Telford is a
very strong runner, and one very satisfying
element of this game was the speed of the backs
and their ability and determination to finish.
Owen converted the try.
Shortly
before half time, a crooked Rainey throw was
scooped up at the back of the lineout by Scott
Uren who crossed the line for a good opportunist
try, again converted by McMurray, giving the
home side a somewhat flattering 17-6 lead at
the interval.
After
the break, Rainey came out strongly and with
two penalties for continuous infringements at
the ruck, reduced the gap to 5 points. Needless
loss of points by failing to observe the referee’s
priorities could prove costly as the season
progresses. Pressure from the visitors mounted
and Instonians did not help their cause by kicks
aimed at the grateful hands of the Rainey backs.
Stout defence kept the line intact, however,
and another strong run from Telford sent scrum
half Davy O’Hara over for a third try.
Telford scored again after a good forward drive.
With
the bonus point secured, it might have been
more sensible to close down the game but a frantic
period of play ensued, with both sides playing
basketball rugby, resulting in a try for Rainey
which narrowed the gap once more. There was
no clear evidence of leadership on the pitch
at this stage, and when a penalty was awarded
in the last minute it looked as if Instonians
might go for the corner, instead of taking the
points. To the relief of the crowd, the side
opted for a kick, and Davy O’Hara slotted
the conversion which denied Rainey the bonus
point.
NO
DULDRUMS IN THE DRUMLINS
Ballynahinch 18 Instonians 34
Instonians gained a second emphatic win against
a Division Two side in three weeks, this time
bringing a well-deserved victory back from Ballynahinch.
Three Division Two sides have been defeated this
season.
Tries came from Davy O’Hara, Scott Uren,
Jamie McCullough and Mark Wilson, all converted
by Niall Malone who added two penalties.
The fact that three tries were scored by forwards
emphasises the teamwork evident on the pitch.
It was good to see that all units were working
well. The front five, the middle five and back
five were cohesive and efficient units. Set pieces
worked well and there was a noticeable improvement
in support play and rucking. The team, as a whole,
can take credit for this, but Scott is making
a huge contribution to the side by the continuity
work he brings. His defence is also aiding the
half backs, who both played well and controlled
the game. They are playing intelligent and thoughtful
rugby, linking forwards and backs well.
One aspect, which may need to be tightened, is
the period of the game when substitutions are
made. The men on the pitch must keep their concentration
and discipline while the new players settle in.
On this occasion, two soft tries were given away,
which could be critical in a more competitive
situation. This tendency must be eliminated.
On the whole, it is encouraging to record that,
over the last few weeks, the squad has begun to
perform well. The test is now to pick a winning
team from the considerable talent which is available.
The side still has scope to improve and maintaining
consistency over the season will be their biggest
challenge.
A.I.L.
Cup
Australia,
New Zealand, Young Munster - "Lo, how the
mighty art fallen!"
Instonians 34 Young Munster 24
Those Instonian supporters who chose to watch the
World Cup Match on television, on a gloriously balmy
autumn afternoon missed a fine encounter against
Young Munster, who, although in the division above
the home side, were well beaten.
There was much talk in the clubhouse before the
game of previous Instonians/Young Munster matches,
when internationals and inter-provincials lined
up against each other, and Peter Clohessy faced
the daunting prospect of scrumming down against
the great front row of Gary Bell, Andy Adair and
Brian Barrett. They were always close affairs, and,
in comparison, Saturday’s win was emphatic.
There was much to enjoy in Saturday’s performance.
The ball from the line-outs was secure and effectively
used. Only the front row knows what was happening
in the scrums, where supremacy swung from pack to
pack. There was an urgency, physicality and hunger
for loose ball which was great to see, with Kenny
and Mark to the fore in the forward encounters and
our back-row newcomer, Scott, showing strong intent,
and a capacity to re-cycle the ball well. It was
great to see the pack working so well as a unit,
particularly as the forwards have been so disrupted
by injury. The vocal leadership and example of Wilber
added a lot to the momentum and cohesion of the
forwards.
The half backs distributed the ball with intelligence
and skill, and behind them there were terrific bursts
of speed and aggressive attack, especially from
out new full back, Joshua. The score could have
been even more decisive had it not been for some
loose defence and crucial lack of concentration.
This was a good performance on which to build,
but there is still a lot of hard work ahead.
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ULSTER SENIOR
LEAGUE FIXTURES 2007 - 2008
25/08/07 Dungannon (A)
L 46-13
01/09/07 Rainey O.B. (A)
L 32-24
Fri. 07/09/07 Malone (H)
W 10-9
15/09/07 Queen's (H)
L20-25
22/09/07 Ards (A)
W 28-39
29/09/07 Ballymena (H)
L 13-31
20/10/07 Ballynahinch (A)
W 18-34
24/11/07 Banbridge (H)
W 38-10
22/12/07 Belfast Harlequins (A)
L 56-25
29/12/07 City of Derry (H)
L 19-27
A.I.L. DIVISION THREE FIXTURES 2006 - 2007
27/10/07 Old Wesley 1:30 p.m.(A)
W 28-20
03/11/07 Rainey OB (H)
W 30-22
10/11/07 Ards (A)
W 31-13
17/11/07 Queens (H)
W 22-21
01/12/07 Naas (A)
W 3-7
08/12/07 Nenagh Ormond (H)
W 38-15
15/12/07 Midleton (H)
W 78-3
12/01/08 Banbridge (A)
L 19-8
19/01/08 City of Derry (A)
W 7-29
26/01/08 Sunday's Well (H)
W 38-13
09/02/08 Bruff (A)
L 6-5
16/02/08 Waterpark (A)
L 27-26
01/03/08 Co.Carlow (H)
W 24-20
22/03/08 Corinthians (A)
W 20-7
29/03/08 Connemara (H)
W 40-10
A.I.L. DIV. 3 PLAY-OFFs
Semi-final
12/04/08 Q.U.B. (H)
W 69-17
Final 19/04/08 Bruff (Donnybrook)
W 32-23
A.I.L. CUP FIXTURES 2007
06/10/07 Young Munster (H)
W 34-24
13/10/07 Blackrock (A)
L
ULSTER SENIOR CUP FIXTURES 2007 - 2008
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