On an unusually mild November day for rugby, Old Christians travelled to neighbours Cobh for a highly anticipated rematch following the preseason cup game. Cobh was undoubtedly eager for this match and a chance to make up for the previous result.
With several changes in both lineups, Cobh displayed their determination from the first whistle and approached the game with high energy. Early attacks were repeatedly stymied by a solid Christians defence until a lapse in discipline gave Cobh some relief.
Following a very physical start, an early injury to an away player necessitated a backline reshuffle, bringing Ivan Tripp on for the injured Conor Dolan. This adjustment moved Mike O’Sullivan to fullback while Ivan took a wing position. In the 12th minute, a clearance was run back by Old Christians through the determined Oscar and swift-footed Mike, setting up a ruck in midfield. Quick hands then released Jamie Hayes, who cut through the defence and raised his hand over the line to acknowledge the crowd before grounding the ball for the try. The subsequent conversion brought the score to 7 – 0.
Cobh responded rapidly when their energetic scrum half evaded some poor tackles before being brought down on the 22. A brilliant offload and support run by the number 13 put Cobh on the scoreboard, to the joy of the local supporters, making it 7-all in no time.
Outstanding lineout work nearly allowed OC to drive over the line, but they were stopped just short. Their attack demonstrated patience and determination, ultimately enabling Laz to push through near the line. The maul proved a formidable challenge throughout the match and Cobh had no effective response for Old Christians' powerful pack. Jack Lonergan, who was at the centre of operations, contributed significantly despite some dubious facial hair, which was humorously reported to have blown off in the second half. The conversion attempt missed, leaving the score at 12 – 7 after 26 minutes.
Mark Deane exited the field shortly after with a head injury. Having performed admirably up to this point, it was unfortunate to see him leave the pitch once more, nearly making it to halftime for the second consecutive game. Young Arron Coade stepped in to make his debut in the junior league, highlighting the promising development within the club's youth ranks.
The first half, marked by intense physicality, also saw Jack Burke sustain an injury, necessitating his replacement by the returning Ben McCarthy. Jack, who has recently been plagued by injuries, was the victim of a careless tackle from the opposition that went unpunished by the referee.
The game ebbed and flowed at this point between both 10 metre lines with the veteran soldier Cian Smith lucky not to see yellow following a clumsy tackle in midfield. It was squeaky bum time for Cian in many ways as he was approached by the ref for a stern warning. When asked if he had anything to say for himself, Cian quipped, "Sorry, I didn't hear the whistle—must be going a bit deaf in my old age!" The ref, trying to stifle a grin, gave him a stern look but let him off with a warning.
Cobh however were not as forgiving and added 3 points to their tally. 14 – 10 at the break and a tight game.
Old Christians made a raft of changes at HT and changed the entire Front Row. Conor Smiddy, Mark Gleeson & Ryan Boot making way for a debuting Cian Walsh, Eoghan O Donnobhain and Paul Morey. It shows the great squad depth the coaches were able to make this move so early in the game and give the starters a chance to catch breath.
12 mins into the 2nd half Old Christians increased their advantage, some great handling by Cian, Ben and Eoghan led to line break. The ball was recycled before Harry Martin and MOTM Dave Ahern showed slight of hand to free up number 8 Cian Smith who mustered a strong jog to get over in the corner. Another great conversion by Marnell took the score out to 21 – 10.
Twelve minutes into the second half, Old Christians expanded their lead. Excellent coordination among Cian, Ben, and Eoghan resulted in a line break. The ball was then recycled, with Harry Martin and Man of the Match Dave Ahern demonstrating deft handling that enabled number 8 Cian Smith who mustered a strong jog to get over in the corner.Another superb conversion by Marnell extended the lead to 21 – 10.
In a 5-minute spell in the second half, Old Christians took the score out to 36 points, Ivan Tripp again got on the end of some excellent handling by Mike and Dave. Prior to the finish Cian Walsh was nearly removed from the Front Row union following some slick handling and a barnstorming run down the wing. The young tight end was enjoying his run out and for a lad of such a young age looked completely at home on his debut. Conversion successful again.
A pen soon followed, with the bonus point secured Laz opted to keep the scoreboard ticking over and Johnny obliged nonchalantly knocking over the 3.
The final score of the game occurred shortly after some fluid rugby from the visitors, who were passing the ball around as if playing a game of tag. The two "tag" players, Mike and Dave, watched with pride. A powerful driving maul was questionably brought to ground without any penalty, and some skilful interplay from the backs concluded with Ivan scoring his second try of the game beneath the posts.
Credit goes to all players for their excellent performance, especially in the second half, showing the depth of this competitive squad despite many early changes. The defence was exceptional throughout the game, with Oscar Clarke particularly noted for chasing down opponents relentlessly as if they owed him money.
The Man of the Match (MOTM) was a tough decision due to outstanding performances across the board, particularly by Jack Lonergan in the pack. However, Dave emerged as a deserving winner for this week and has promised his girlfriend a romantic meal for two at Domino’s with his winning voucher followed by a trip to the tanning salon.
With all players receiving sufficient game time, the team remains in high spirits. Attention now shifts to Ennis, where Kev is expected to be occupied in the physio room as injuries are assessed over the next few days.
