Blackrock College vs. Cistercian College Roscrea: Leinster Schools Senior Cup Quarter-Final
In a thrilling encounter at Energia Park, Blackrock College demonstrated their dominance in the second half to secure a convincing victory over a resilient Cistercian College Roscrea side in the Bank of Ireland Leinster Schools Senior Cup quarter-final. Niall Smyth emerged as the hero for Blackrock, scoring a crucial double to propel his team to victory.
First Half: Roscrea’s Resilience
The match kicked off with Roscrea employing a strategic but questionable tactic of kicking long to the exceptional Charlie Molony, which initially resulted in Conor O’Shughnessy’s penalty in the third minute. However, Roscrea quickly retaliated, with Aaron Moloney’s quick thinking earning them a penalty that Jack Deegan successfully converted to level the score at 3-3. Despite Blackrock’s early dominance, Roscrea’s defense, led by players like Joe Finn and James Miller, held firm, frustrating their opponents and limiting their attacking opportunities.
Pulsating Exchange:
The first half witnessed a pulsating exchange of plays, with both teams showcasing their attacking prowess. Blackrock’s direct approach, spearheaded by players like Tommy Butler and Jack Angulo, tested Roscrea’s defense, while Roscrea’s counter-attacks, orchestrated by Robert Carney and Harry Finlay, kept Blackrock on their toes. However, neither team could break through, and the half ended with the score tied at 3-3.
Second Half: Blackrock’s Domination
The second half saw a remarkable shift in momentum as Blackrock College seized control of the game. Charlie Molony emerged as the catalyst for Blackrock’s resurgence, capitalizing on a loose kick to set up Niall Smyth for the first of his two tries, giving Blackrock an 8-3 lead in the 38th minute.
Unstoppable Forward Pack:
Blackrock’s forward pack, led by Smyth, Butler, and Donnacha Maguire, began to overpower Roscrea, consistently gaining ground and putting immense pressure on their opponents. Despite Roscrea’s valiant efforts, including some impressive steals by Mark Walsh and Smyth, they couldn’t contain Blackrock’s relentless attacks. Jack O’Neill’s try in the 62nd minute further extended Blackrock’s lead to 22-3, effectively sealing the victory.
Scorers:
– **Blackrock:** N Smyth (2 tries), J O’Neill (try), C O’Shaughnessy (2 pens, 2 cons)
– **Roscrea:** J Deegan (pen)
