RESULTS

 

Under 13 league

Two great Connacht U-13 League results for our Under-13 team in the past week.

Under-13 Connacht League (H): Creggs Rugby 46, Corinthians RFC 17

Under-13 Connacht League (A): Ballina RFC 12, Creggs Rugby 19

Creggs 45               Connemara 12

Tries by Owen Coyle x 2, Oisin McConn, Dylan Jordan, Micheal Hanly, Ronan Dowd and Thomas Hester. Shane Purcell conversions, Ronan Dowd 2 x conversions, Niall Cunniffe 1 x conversion.

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Under 14s

A fantastic win on Sunday last for our Under-14 team in the first round of the Under- 14 Connacht Cup, away to Connemara RFC.

Under-14 Connacht Cup First Round (A): Creggs Rugby 49, Connemara RFC 0.

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Creggs under 14s completeted their league program in the last week with a 41-nil home win over Dunmore on Thursday night last and a 50 – 26 win over Claremorris,in Ballyhaunis on Sunday.These results have qualified tham for the league quarter finals which are down for decision next weekend.The draw is being done tonight and all details will be announced at training on Thursday night at 7p.m.

 

Under 15s

Our Under-15 team had a very competitive friendly match V Ballinasloe RFC in Creggs on Sunday last. It was a good outing in preparation for the First Round of the Connacht Under-15 Cup next Sunday in Creggs.

Under-14 Friendly: Creggs Rugby 15, Ballinasloe RFC 12.

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Last Sunday in Creggs, our Under-15 side performed very well to register a win v Longford RFC. Twenty players all played at least a half game, and it was greta to see some players returning to form in what was a great team performance.

Creggs 14                    Ballinasloe 12

 

Under 15 Friendly

Creggs 7                      Dunmore 10

Under 16 league

Loughrea 12                Creggs 26

 

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REPORTS

Under 13s

Creggs U13 beat Castlebar in league Fixture

 

Creggs 15                         Castlebar 7

 

Creggs U13 overcame a strong Castlebar team on Friday night under lights in Creggs in their U13 League Fixture.

 

In a very tough and competitive encounter Creggs found this game a huge step up from recent league games as they had been scoring for fun in those encounters and this game will certainly stand to them with the Connacht cup fast approaching.

 

Both teams were very committed at the breakdown and had to be at their best in defence in this game and the early exchanges weer 50/50. Castlebar took the lead after 9 Minutes when full back Rory Gaffney gathered the ball outside his 22 and seeing Creggs were short of numbers out left he moved the ball to flying winger jamsey Finnerty who beat the Creggs defence to score under the posts which was converted by Conor Gallagher to put Castlebar 7-0 up.

 

Creggs now came more into the encounter and took field position well within the Castlebar half of the pitch and after 16 minutes registered their first score from a penalty from Ronan Dowd to leave the score 7-3.

 

Creggs were now doing well upfront through David O Gorman, Brandon Hanmore and Brian Maloney and in the backs Shane Purcell and Niall Cunniffe carried the ball well and Ronan Dowd moved the ball well when the opportunities presented themselves.

 

Creggs were putting pressure on the Castlebar rearguard and were held up just short on a couple of occasions and after 21 minutes they were rewarded then David O Gorman picked and scored a try which was converted by Ronan Dowd to leave the half time score 10-7 in Creggs favour.

 

Creggs continued to pressurise the opposition in the second half and had the best of territory but excellent defending by a committed Castlebar defence kept their line in tact. A lovely Creggs move after 20 minutes was rewarded when a kick through by Ronan Dowd was carried over his own line by Saran O Callaghan and from the 5 metre scrum Creggs picked and after a number of phases, hooker Danny Armold picked and showed no shortage of speed to race over for the only score of the second half.

 

Creggs. Danny Arnold, Michael Brandon, Brandon Hanmore, Aaron Glennon, Thomas Hester, Dylan Jordon, Brian Maloney, David O Gorman, Jason Hoare, Oisin McConn, Adam Finnerty, Michael Hanly, Ronan Dowd, Shane Purcell, Niall Cunniffe, Cian Gately, Padraig Gaffey, Ben McGahon, Michael Conroy, Sean Kelly, Patrick Kenny, Rory Gacquin, Ben Feeley, Nathan Feeney, Niall Hynes.

 

Under 14s

 

U-14 MATCH REPORT:

The Creggs Under-14 squad arrived into a picturesque Clifden on Sunday morning last for their first round Connacht Cup tie with Connemara.

Under a blue sky their hard work at recent training sessions bore some fruit as they recorded a 49 to nil victory.

Leading 28 nil at half time after some fine rugby the team began the second half in a sloppy fashion but regained their structure to finish the game strongly.

We have a home Cup Quarter-Final against the winners of Buccaneers RFC and Ballinasloe RFC on the weekend of February 25/26 and with a full compliment of players we can only look forward to that fixture.

Scorers: tries, Brian Diffley (3), Mark Dolan (2), Conor Shanagher (2), conversions, Michael Farrell (7).

Team and replacements: Conor Shanagher, Conor McNeill, Breen Fallon, Mark Dolan, Theo MvGuinness, Michael Farrell, James McNally, Max Bannon, Rory Cunniffe, Ronan Cahill, Michael Feely, Dylan Morrin, Sean Doorly, Brian Diffley (capt), Daniel Butt, Richard Thomson, Sean Raftery, and Matthew Browne.

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Creggs under 14s lost their league quarter final game away to Galwegians on Saturday last on a score line of 24- 7. Not a full strength the lads gave a good account of themselves and having conceded a try two minutes in the signs were ominous but some terrific defense meant that was the half time position. Again, another try was conceded straight from the kick off and ten minutes later the score was nineteen nil after a bad bounce gifted another try. Galwegians scored their fourth try with ten minutes remaining and in fairness to the team they finished strongly with Mark Dolan getting over for a fine try which was converted by Michael Farrell. The squad can look forward to the cup draw with optimism as with a full compliment they can be a match for any side in Connacht. Team and reserve; Max Bannon.Rory Cunniffe, Ronan Cahill, Michael Feely, Mark Dolan, Richard Thomson, Brian Diffley, Thomas O’Byrne, James McNally, Michael Farrell, Daniel Butt, Conor Shanagher, Theo McGuinness, Conor McNeill, Breen Fallon, Sean Doorly.

 

Under 15s

CREGGS 14                           BALLINASLOE 12

Creggs had to scrap for this victory all the way against a Ballinasloe team who have just qualified for the league semi-finals. The game was played with a strong wind favouring home side Ballinasloe in the first half. Creggs played very well into the wind with centres Donal Kelly and Colm Fallon looking dangerous. The linked well with wingers Connor Gore and Richard Hughes and little mistakes prevented any tries being scored. Ballinasloe crossed for two tries with one converted by scrum half Donnacha Reilly leaving Creggs 12 nil down at half time. The second half was totally dominated by Creggs with half backs Kevin Gavin and Shane Dowd making probing breaks supported by a very lively back frow of Ribbie Daly, Alex Syrtek and Rory O’Donoghue. At line out John Keegan found Michael Kelly and Brian Collins regularly to keep Creggs in the driving seat. Dylan Ward, David Lyons and Michael Kelly set up positions for Creggs to attack and the ball was transferred by Shane Dowd to Donal Kelly to Connor Gore to score under the posts Shane Dowd converted. Creggs continued to play the territory game with good work by James Walker and a great line break by Richard Hughes set up a quick ruck which enabled Kevin Gavin to score the winning try which Shane Dowd converted. Finally we wish Rory O’Donoghue a quick recovery from an injury he received during the game. We look forward to seeing him in Creggs colours again soon.

 

Under 15 Friendly

Creggs 7                       Dunmore 10

 

Creggs Under 15 gave debuts to seven players in his mid week friendly with Dunmore last Wednesday night and they all acquitted themselves excellently. Creggs dominated early on with out half Kevin Gavin kicking intelligently behind the Dunmore Defence. He was receiving a great service from scrum half, Shay Connolly playing his first game for Creggs. Second rows James Regan and Andrew Clarke ensured a good supply of lineout ball and several try scoring opportunities were created. Creggs converted one of those who a good break by centre Donal Kelly with support from Colm Fallon, Michael Kelly and Richard Hughes enabled James Regan to score near the posts. Kevin Gavin converted. Dunmore launched a few attacks but Creggs were not found wanting his defence with great tackling from forwards Dean Holian, John Keegan and Alex Syrtek kept them out. The second half saw Dunmore dominate field position and they finally scored a try near the end of the contest. A late penalty gave victory to Dunmore by three points. Best for Creggs were Rory O’Donoghue, David Lyons, and Stephen Glynn on the wings, Richard Hughes at full back and Robbie Daly at wing forward.

 

Panel: S. Spain, R. O’Donoghue, M. Kelly, B. Collins, J. Regan, A. Syrtek, R. Daly, J. Walker, K. Gavin, S. Dowd, D. Kelly, C. Fallon, R. Hughes, T. Clayton, D. Lyons, S. Glynn, S. Connolly, J. Keegan, D. Holian, A. Clarke, C. Gore, D. Ward.

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Cup and Plate Tables

 

Previous Results:

Under-13:

Galwegians 10          Creggs 15

Creggs 55                    Sligo  7

Creggs 59                    Corinthians 7

Creggs 10                    Galwegians Blue 12

Buccaneers 0              Creggs 29

Under-14

Westport 10                 Creggs 29

Creggs 27                      Sligo  0

Creggs 7                        Castlebar 19

Under 15

Creggs 7                      Ballina 0

Buccaneers 19           Creggs 20

Creggs 5                      Buccaneers 14

Ballina 13                   Creggs 5

Under 16

Dunmore 13               Creggs 18

Claremorris 19          Creggs 38

Tuam 10                     Creggs 10 

 

Reports

Under 13s

Galwegians 10            Creggs 15

After a three weak break due to the recent weather, Creggs continued their U13 league campaign when they travelled to Galwegians last Saturday. Played in lovely sunshine this was a very good game played by two very committed teams with neither side giving an inch.

 

Both side tried at all times to move the ball wide and only some fine defence on both sides kept the score down in this encounter.

 

Creggs started the brighter and some fine work in the forwards by Aaron Glennon, James Brandon and David O Gorman meant a steady supply for the backline where Michael Hanly, Ronan Dowd and Shane Purcell were prominent.

 

Creggs moved the ball wide and looked to have the better of their opposition out wide but they were unable to capitalise due to some fine defending and also some loose passing when they got near the line.

 

Galwegians scored from their only attack in the first half when they managed to capitalise on a mistake from Creggs to touch down in the corner.

 

It took Creggs until 2 minutes into the second half to draw level, when some fine work from Oisin McConn and  Adam Finnerty produced a large overlap on the open side for Eoin Coyle to score.

 

Creggs went back on the attack again and a fine run from Full Back Cian Gately created space and from the breakdown Ronan Dowd spotted a gap in the defence and  managed to touch down for a fine individual score.

 

Galwegians came back into the game and got some territory themselves after that Creggs score and looked like they had spurnbed the opportunity when Creggs managed to turn over the ball but some fine counter rucking by the Galwegians pack meant Creggs failed to hold onto the ball to clear their line and Galwegians went in for the equalising score.

 

Creggs never let their heads drop and went straight back on the attack and some fine power play from Brandon Hancock in Midfield gave Creggs a fine attacking position and when they moved the ball wide Niall Cunniffe scored in the corner to make the score 15-10.

Under-13

Creggs Rugby Under-13s had a big win away in Sligo last Saturday in the Connacht League.

They came away from their trip to the north-west with a remarkable 55 points to 7 points for the Sligo lads.

Under-13

Creggs 59                                Corinthians 7

Creggs played their fourth match of the U13 league against Corinthians RFC last Saturday morning in Donamon in perfect conditions for rugby.

This was a game Creggs dominated from start to finish and scored 9 tries on the way to an emphatic victory.

On a perfect day day for running rugby, Creggs forwards produced perfect ball and the Creggs back through Ronan Dowd, Shane Purcell and Niall Cunniffe moved the ball wide at every opportunity.

The game was 3 minutes old when from a scrum on the right hand side Creggs moved the ball across the backline for Padraig Gaffey to score in the corner which was converted by Niall Cunniffe.

Creggs continued to control up front through some excellent work from Brian Maloney, David O Gorman, Thomas Hester, Danny Arnold and James Brandon and scored 4 more tries in the first half all through the back line from Cian gately x 2, Ronan Dowd and Michael Hanly leaving the half time score 33-0.

The second half was only 1 minute old when more excellent work upfront from Adam Finnerty and Brandon Hanmore created a hole which Niall Cunniffe exploited to score in the corner.

Creggs made changes in the back line but continued to run the ball at all times and had some excellent work from Niall Hynes, Jason Hoare and Dylan Jordan were rewarded by further tries for Ronan Dowd, Cian Gately, and another try by Niall Cunniffe. Leaving the score 59-0.

Corinthians never let their heads fall and continued to try hard and were rewarded with 5 minutes to go when they scored under the posts to reduce the deficit to 59-7.

Creggs play away next week to Sligo date to be confirmed.

Creggs: Tomas Hester, Aaron Glennon, Brandon Hanmore, Jason Hoare, Adam Finnerty, David O Gorman, Brian Maloney, Oisin McConn, Sean Kelly, Michael Brandon, Michael Ha

nly, Ronan Dowd, Shane Purcell, Niall Cunniffe, Padraic Gaffey, Owen Coyle, Cian Gately. Niall Hynes, Dylan Jordan, Patrick Kenny, Ben Feely, Danny Arnold. James Brandon, Hughie Daly, Rory Gaquin.

 

Under-13

Buccaneers 0                                        Creggs 29

Creggs U-13’s side defeat Buccaneers

 

The third match of Creggs Under-13 league Campaign against Buccaneers was played in beautiful sunshine this Sunday afternoon in Athlone.

Creggs were always in control of this encounter and took the lead after 10 minutes from a scrum when the ball was moved wide for Niall Cunniffe to score in the corner.

Creggs continued to press and play the game in the Buccaneers Half and excellent play from Adam Finnerty, Danny Arnold, Eoin Coyle and Padraic Gaffey meant Creggs had a good supply up front.

Creggs Extended their lead half way through the first half when Creggs won good ball in midfield and Niall Cunniffe found a gap in the defence and managed to beat the defence to the line. Niall also converted his Try to leave the score 12-0.

With 5 minutes to go to half time Creggs extended their lead to 17-0 when from a 5 metre scrum, Creggs moved the ball across the whole back line and excellent work from Niall Hynes, Patrick Kenny and Dylan Jordan worked the ballwidefor Ronan Dowd to score.

Creggs continued their good work upfront in the second half and provided great ball for their backs to move and they extended their lead to 22-0 when from a Scrum outside the 22, James Brandon picked from the base of the scrum and released Shane Purcell who did good work to beat two defenders to the line.

Creggs continued to attack and got their reward in the final few minutes when from a succession of 5 metre scrums James Brandon picked and went over for a tray which was converted by Ronan Dowd.

Creggs team and replacements: Tomas Hester, Aaron Glennon, Brandon Hanmore, Danny Arnold, James Brandon, Adam Finnerty, David O Gorman, Brian Maloney, Oisin McConn, Michael Brandon, Michael Hanly, Ronan Dowd, Shane Purcell, Niall Cunniffe, Padraic Gaffey, Owen Coyle, Cian Gately. Niall Hynes, Dylan Jordan, Patrick Kenny, Hughie Daly, and Rory Gacquin.

 

Under-13

Creggs 10                     Galwegians Blue 12

Creggs Rugby Under-13 side had a narrow league loss

Creggs began their U13 A league campaign in very wet conditions this Sunday afternoon. Creggs began the match very well and had the better in the forwards battle winning plenty of scrums against the head and the Creggs Front row of Tomas Hester, Michael Conroy and Danny Arnold certainly had the measure of their opponents. In fact Galwegians never managed to get out of their own half in the first half at all however all Creggs had to show for their dominance was a 5-0 lead at half time through a try by Niall Cunniffe after 20 minutes. Creggs had tried through Ronan Dowd, Shane Purcell and Oisin McConn to punch holes in a well organised Galwegians Defence however the defence held firm until half time.

At half time Galwegians withdrew one of their props due to injury and as they had no replacements the scrums became non contested, which gave Galwegians a steady supply of ball especially as on such a wet day where there were a significant number of scrums contested. Galwegians began to get some territory and drew level 10 minutes into the second half when Creggs Failed to clear their lines and Galwegians drove over from a 5 metre scrum. Creggs continued to try and move the ball and in the back line Cian Gately and Ben McGahan continued to run at their opponents but again Galwegians defence was well organised and held firm. After 18 minutes Galwegians took the lead from an intercept try in midfield when Creggs tried to move the ball wide from a central position. Galwegians converted this try leaving the score 12-5 as it headed into the last 10 minutes.

 

Creggs went back on the attack when some fine work by Brian Maloney, David O Gorman, Brandon Hanmore, Padraic Gaffey and Owen Coyle punched holes in a tiring Galwegians defence, the backs moved the ball and again Niall Cunniffe collected the ball from a good backs move and scored in the corner to reduce deficit to 2 points.

 

In the last 7 minutes Creggs continued to attack however on a such a wet day unfortunately a few passes just went astray and the chances were lost.

 

Creggs continue their league campaign next Friday evening with a home game against Ballinasloe.

 

Creggs Rugby Under-13 Squad V Galwegians:

Tomas Hester, Danny Arnold, Michael Conroy, Jason Hoare, Padraig Gaffey, Brian Maloney, Owen Coyle, David O Gorman, Sean Kelly, Brandon Hanmore, Hughie Daly, Michael Brandon, Cian Gately, Ronan Dowd, Shane Purcell, Niall Cunniffe, Dylan Jordan, Oisin McConn, Ben McGahan

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UNDER-14s

Castlebar 19                  Creggs 7

 

Creggs Under-14s go down to Castlebar

 

In their second league game Creggs tasted defeat away to Castlebar on a scoreline of 19 – 7. Played on Saturday evening under lights, Castlebar kicked off and immediately laid siege to the Creggs line, led impressively by their towering no.8 Jack Heavey,first cousin of Creggs senior no.8 Jarlath Hughes.

Our boys tackled valiantly but Castlebar were dominating the territory and possession stakes. On twelve minutes the Castlebar out half put through a delightful grubber behind the inexperienced Creggs flat defence, for their left winger to hack on and get the touch down.

The conversion was missed, but straight away the home team were in our 22 and five minutes later in a scrum five meters from our own line we failed to strike our own ball and they were under the posts in a flash for a further seven points.

Again we kicked off to them,and again they ran right back at us, but this time due to a combination of great handling and weak tackling they were in again for another seven. A drubbing looked on the cards especially when influencial tight head Thomas O Byrne retired injured, but captain Brian Diffley began to take matters into his own hands with some typical barnstorming runs and this had a rallying effect on his team mates.

Creggs finished the half the stronger and went on to show great character by taking the game to Castlebar for the entire second half.

However, bar a try by debutant Alan White fifteen minutes into the half, converted by Michael Farrell we failed to get the necessary scores even though Diffley looked to have a perfectly good try disallowed by the referee.

When most teams might have thrown in the towel after conceding three tries in the first eighteen minutes this Creggs outfit lifted their game and never gave up,playing some tremendous rugby in the second half.

Considering that for four boys it was their first game of rugby it makes the performance even more creditable.

Best wishes are extended to Thomas O Byrne for a speedy recovery and our next game is next Saturday away to Claremorris.

Team and replacements: Max Bannon, Rory Cunniffe, Thomas O Byrne, Dylan Morrin, Mark Dolan. Edward Clinton, Richard Thomson, Brian Diffley, Matthew Browne, Conor Shanagher/Breen Fallon, Daniel Butt, Alan White, Sean Doorly, Michael Farrell, James Fetherstone, Sean Raftery, Aidan Devine, and Darragh Mullen.

 

Under-14

Creggs u 14s return to winning ways

Creggs had a 27 points to nil home win over Sligo on Sunday Nov 20th, giving us two wins out of three in the league.After the reversal to Westport in our last game it was important to come up with a win and the boys duly obliged.Played in Donamon the team were on the Sligo line within seconds of the kick off and stayed there for six minutes but failed to get over due mainly to over anxiousness.

Sligo found their way into the game and started to pose questions but on twelve minutes we turned them over on their own 10m line and when captain Brian Diffley picked up the ball he had only one thing on his mind,eventually getting the touch down in the left corner.Outhalf Conor Shanagher just missed the conversion,but we pushed on from there until half time with new boy Sean Raftery scoing a try in his first start and Diffley claiming his second.Shanagher made one of the conversions and also slotted a penalty leaving the half time score reading 20-0.

The second half started with our continued dominance and ten minutes in second row Mark Dolan was on the end of some fine continuity play to storm over for the fourth try with fullback Michael Farrell adding the points.The remainder of the game saw our play become diluted as we introduced all our substitutes.The contest ended without any further scoring and after a break next week end we are away to Claremorris for our next league fixture.

Squad; Michael Farrell, Sean Dourly, Adam White, Daniel Butt, Theo McGuinness, Conor Shanagher, Matthew Browne, Max Bannon, Rory Cunniffe, Thomas O’Byrne, Mark Dolan, James Fetherstone, Edward Clinton, Brian Diffley, Richard Thomson, Ronan Cahill, Sean Raftery, Conor McNeilln, Aidan Devine, Dylan Morrin, Darragh Mullen.

Under 14s

Creggs u 14s suffered a 10 – 5 defeat at home to Ballina on Saturday evening last. Ballina came into the game unbeaten after 5 games and started full of confidence against a Creggs team down five starting personel for various reasons. A try by Ballina mid way through the first half followed by a second one on the blow of half time left it 10 – nil at the break. Creggs kept pounding away in the second half and were rewarded with a try in the last quarter, but were unlucky not to able to score again before full time. A special for flanker Edward Clinton who despite a heavy cold delivered a super performance, when many would have cried off in such circumstances. Our next game will be at home to Dunmore immediately Christmas.

Under 14

Creggs under 14s completeted their league program in the last week with a 41-nil home win over Dunmore on Thursday night last and a 50 – 26 win over Claremorris,in Ballyhaunis on Sunday.These results have qualified tham for the league quarter finals which are down for decision next weekend.The draw is being done tonight and all details will be announced at training on Thursday night at 7p.m.

 

Under-14

Westport 10                Creggs 29

Creggs Rugby Under-14 team win away in Westport

Creggs under 14s got their league campaign underway with a great 10 -29 win away to Westport on Saturday last.

 

Played in difficult underfoot conditions, Creggs kept to a ten man game plan, with their strong pack kept on the front foot by intelligent half back play from Matthew Browne and Michael Farrell.

 

A brace of early tries from number 8, Brian Diffley, both converted by out half Michael Farrell helped to settle the Creggs boys and they continued their dominance of the first half with further unconverted tries from Brian Diffley and second-row Mark Dolan.

 

With their good lead, Creggs started to become over adventurous towards the end of the half, dropping ball in midfield on two occasions resulting in the impressive Westport number 13 picking up the loose ball each time and scorching over to leave the half time score at 10 – 24.

 

The second half turned into a stalemate with complacency taking over the Creggs performance, and leading to a few anxious moments. However a further try from brian Diffley in the last quarter made the result safe and Creggs were able to see out the remainder of the game.

 

The Creggs front row of Max Bannon, Rory Cunniffe and Thomas O’Byrne were paticulary strong in the scrum with O’Byrne also prominent in the loose. Mark Dolan and Dylan Morrin in the second row scrummaged and rucked well and were complented by a balanced backrow of Brian Diffley, Richard Thomson and Edward Clinton.

 

Outside the halfbacks, centres Daniel Butt and Sean Doorly were strong,with the back three of Breen Fallon,Conor Shanagher and Conor McNeill competent under the high ball .

The next game is away to Castlebar in two weeks, with training as normal on Thursday night at 7pm sharp.

The Creggs Rugby Under-13 squad that defeated Westport in the league last Saturday in Westport.

 

Under 15s

CONNACHT LEAGUE DIVISION 1 – UNDER 15

 

Second big win for impressive Under-15 side

 

Creggs 7                                                      Ballina 0

 

Creggs U15 team made it two wins in a row last Saturday with a thoroughly deserved victory over a very resilient Ballina team played in Donamon.

The heavy overnight rains made for a very sodden pitch but the game itself was still very enjoyable. Creggs opted to play into the elements in the first half and they began well with Matthew Butt, Andrew Clarke and Brian Diffley making a number of attacks breaching the Ballina defence and setting up good attacking positions.

Our support play was good too with James Walker, Simon Spain, Alex Syrek and particularly Michael Kelly cleaning out any opposition bodies lying in the way.

Scrum half Kevin Gavin intelligently used his forwards to make the hard yards before using his backline which featured centre Connor Gore and Robbie Daly to good effect.

By half time the game was scoreless and Creggs had made a number of good drives into the Ballina half.

The second half saw Creggs dominate completely but a clinching score was eluding them. Wingers Donal Kelly and Mark Ward looked threatening when they received quick ruck ball.

Full back Tomas Clayton was assured under the high ball and tried to attack whenever he got the opportunity.

Finally Creggs got a breakthrough when they were awarded a penalty but unfortunately Kevin Gavin was just off target. Brian Collins and Brian Diffley attacked once more but the Ballina defence was unrelenting.

As injury time approached a break from Conor Shanagher and support from hard tackling hooker Rory O’Donoghue led to a Creggs scrum and Kevin Gavin picked and eluded the Ballina back row before popping to wing Donal Kelly who headed for the try line before offloading to the supporting Shane Dowd who out flanked the defence to score in the corner.

It was a try worthy of winning any game. Ballina were crestfallen and to make matters worse Kevin Gavin converted the try from the touchline.

Creggs has secured a hard earned victory and now look forward to next week’s away game against Galwegians having secured a place in the league quarter finals.

 

Creggs Rugby U-15 Panel: S. Spain, R. O’Donoghue, M. Kelly, B. Collins, D. Clarke, I. Walker, B. Diffley, M. Butt, K. Gavin, S. Dowd, M. Ward, C. Gore, R. Daly, D. Kelly, T. Clayton, C. Shanagher, J. Keegan, D. Ward, C. Fallon, S. Connolly, Alex Syrek, M.Donelan, S. Glynn, D. Lyons.

The management and their fellow players wish a speedy return to the panel to Richard Hughes and Thomas Beatty.

N.B. – Instead of the usual training this week, on Thursday night (be there by 6.45pm), we will play our Under-14 Team in a match at 7pm. This will provide an ideal opportunity for new players to impress.

Next Sunday, we play Galwegians RFC in the Connacht League at 11am in Galway.

Arrangement made on Thursday evening re: departure times for this Connacht league match from Roscommon, Creggs and Ballygar.

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Under 15s

Buccaneers 19       Creggs 20

Connacht U15 League Division 

This was indeed a match to savour. Buccaneers began brightly and a speculative kick over the Creggs rearguard led to a chase between the Buccaneers Wing and Creggs hooker Rory O’Donoghue. The wing was awarded the try but Creggs responded a few minutes later when Shane Dowd chased his own Kick and collected the loose ball to score under the posts. Kevin Gavin converted. Buccs then applied some pressure to the Creggs line and after a few forward charges they crossed the line under the posts for a converted try. Creggs however replied with a great surge from Brian Diffley, Michael Kelly and Simon Spain and the ball was transferred quickly through the hands from scrumhalf Kevin Gavi

n to Shane Dowd, Conor Gore Robbie Daly, Tomas Clayton and Conor Shanagher to the flying winger Donal Kelly who crashed over in the corner. Kevin Gavin converted a great try and then followed this up with an excellent penalty leaving Creggs leading by 15 points to 12 at half time. The second half was very close with both sides having opportunities before a great break by Brian Collins supported by James Walker and Andrew Clarke led to Alex passing to Shane Dowd who squeezed into the corner for a great try. Creggs led by eight points but a late Buccaneers try led to a grandstand finish but Creggs managed to hold out to win by one point. Creggs can thank their outstanding defence with great tackles by Rory O’Donoghue, Conor Gore, Mark Ward, Brian Diffley, Robbie Daly and James Walker standing out. Training takes place next Wednesday night at 7pm and we play Ballina in Creggs on Sunday.We welcome back Stephen Joyce and new players, Shay Kennelly, David Lyons, Colm Fallon and Stephen Glynn. 

 

Panel: S. Spain, R O’Donoghue, M. Kelly, B. Collins, Alex, J. Walker, B. Diffley, K. Gavin, S. Dowd, C. Shanagher, C. Gore, R. Daly, D. Kelly, T. Clayton, D. McDermott, E. Clinton, J. Keegan, M. Ward, A. Clarke.

 

Under-15

Creggs Rugby Under-15s had no match last weekend after their thrilling win against table-toppers Buccaneers R.F.C. in Athlone, the previous Saturday (see the happy faces in the dressing room afterwards).

Instead of a mach last weekend, the team got in an additional training session in Creggs on Friday evening.

Our Under-15 squad coaches and players welcome four new players from Glenamaddy that joined us last week.

 

Connacht U15 League Quarter final Division 1

Castlebar 18 Creggs 14

Creggs bowed out of the league competition last Sunday in a closely fought encounter with Castlebar, played in Castlebar in perfect conditions. A strong wind faced Creggs in the first half but it did not affect their first half performance and they managed to get a foothold in Castlebar territory early on. Shane Dowd kicked intelligently behind the defence and wingers Richard Hughes and Donal Kelly chased well to force the home side to concede line out possession. Creggs kept the pressure on with Mark Dolon, Rory Donoghue, Brian Diffley and Brian Collins setting up good attacking positions. Creggs won three penalties during this period which were kickable but unfortunately Kevin Gavin and Shane Dowd were narrowly off target. Castlebar responded with greater intensity with number 8 Sean Hastings and robbery Hughes driving at the Creggs defence. The contest bustled with intensity with great tackling from back row James Walker and Matthew butt until the latter retired injured. Just before half-time Castlebar broke the deadlock when their back row linked with their centres Paul Walsh and Eimhin Morrin for Conor Carter to score. Unfortunately the referee failed to see a forward pass in the build up clear which should have resulted in the score being ruled out. The second half saw Creggs with the wind behind them but they conceded two tries in the opening fifteen minutes to leave them fifteen points behind. However they did not give up and props Simon Spain and Michael Kelly together with forwards Andrew Clarke and James Regan gained control and their efforts were rewarded when Shane Dowd broke to the wing from a quick pass by Kevin Gavin to release Donal Kelly who crashed out in the corner. Kevin Gavin expertly converted from the sideline. Five minutes later Creggs gained good field position near the Castlebar line and backs Tomas Clayton, Robbie Daly and Colm Fallon linked well together to send centre Connor Gore over the line for our second try. Again Kevin Gavin superbly converted. Game on for the final five minutes but unfortunately Creggs ran out of time. Creggs were unlucky to loose and hope to improve, they have plenty of areas to work on in the coming weeks with the cup draw next week. Creggs play Dunmore in Dunmore this Wednesday night at 7.30pm and play Ballinasloe RFC in Ballinasloe next Friday night at 7pm as part of our cup preparation.

 

Panel: S. Spain, R. O’Donoghue, M. Kelly, B. Collins, M. Dolon, J. Walker, M. butt, B. Diffley, K. Gavin, S. Dowd, D. Kelly, C. Gore, T. Clayton, R. Hughes, C. Shanagher, A. Clarke, C. Fallon, D. Lyons, S. Glynn, S. Connolly, J. Keegan, D. Ward, J. Regan.

 

Connacht U15 League Division 1

 

Galwegians 7 Creggs 5

Creggs visited Galway last weekend and lost out to a last minute try by Galwegians in a closely contested game. Creggs were under pressure in the first half having elected to play into a strong wind. The Galwegian forwards dominated possession and Creggs relied on great tackling from Mark Donlon. Brian Diffley, Simon Spain, and Brian Collins kept their line intact. At scrum time Creggs were solid thanks to Rory O’Donoghue, Michael Kelly and James Walker. This provided some ball for Kevin Gavin to clear his lines and the game was scoreless as the referee sounded the half-time whistle. The second half saw Creggs dominate possession but our backs tended to Knock on the ball when in good positions. Winger Donal Kelly made several good breaks and Connor Shanagher did well by kicking intelligently behind the Galwegians back three. Creggs will need to improve their lineout and their concentration levels for the next outing. Twenty five players formed our squad and we introduced seven subs during the second half with Richard Hughes, John Keegan, Colum Fallon, Stephen Glynn, Alex Syrtek and Edward Clinton impressing. Centres Robbie Daly and Connor Gore tackled well and back row Matthew Butt stopped the opposition on the gain line on several occasions. At full back Tomas Clayton covered well and kicked astutely. Dylan Ward when introduced at hooker battled well while newcomers Shay Connelly and David Lyons will get their opportunity to impress the next day. With 15 minutes to go, a beautifully weighted kick by scrum half Kevin Gavin hopped behind the Galwegians defense and Shane Wood beat the defense to gather the ball and cross the line for a great try. Kevin failed to add the conversion and Creggs also missed two penalties. Galwagians responded by putting on the pressure for the last ten minutes and their efforts were rewarded with a try with the last play of the game. The conversion just made it over the crossbar leaving Creggs feeling hard done by, losing by two points. This weekend sees Creggs qualify for the quarter final of the league when we will play Castlebar (away) on Sunday next at 12 noon. Training takes place on Wednesday night at 7pm (forwards only) and Thursday night at 7pm.

 

Panel: S. Spain, R. O’Donoghue, M.Kelly, B. Collins, M. Donlon, J. Walker, B. Diffley, M. Butt, K. Gavin, S. Dowd, R. Daly, C. Gore, C. Shanagher, D. Kelly, T. Clayton, J. Keegan, A. Syrtek, D. Ward, S. Connolly, R. Hughes, E. Clinton, D. Lyons, C. Fallon, S. Glynn.

 

Under 15 

Connacht League

Claremorris RFC 19                         Creggs 38

Great away win for Creggs in Connacht U-16 League opener

Creggs began their U16 league campaign away to Claremorris in Ballyhaunis on Bank Holiday Monday and came away with a 38 points to 19 victory.

Under 16

 

Creggs U16 Remain Unbeaten

Dunmore 13               Creggs 18

 

After the interruption due to weather prior to Christmas and then the Christmas break, the below Creggs squad travelled to Dunmore and resumed their U16 league Campaign this Monday afternoon in Dunmore.

Creggs; Eoghan Farrell, Mark Kearney, Barry McDonnell, Rory Collins, Maurice Buckley, Dylan Keavney, Noel Gately, Evan Concur, Brian Cleary, Ryan Horan, Tom Oates, Diarmuid Cunniffe, Mark Naughton, Rory O Brochalain, John Brennan, David Murray, Jack Caltagirone, Brian Donohoe, Sean Gaffey, Ronan Raftery, Ross Mugan, Jamie Mee, James Regan, Darren Campbell.

Both sides were very committed in this fixture and moved the ball wide at every available opportunity and were very committed in defence and at the breakdown which was very well contested by both sides throughout this game.

 

Creggs had the better of the opening quarter and excellent play by Barry McDonnell, Tom Oates, Mark Kearney and Ronan Raftery upfront kept Creggs on the front foot and provided good ball for Creggs to move wide on a couple of occasions in the first ten minutes and Creggs were rewarded after 9 minutes when John Brennan went over in the corner after some excellent work by the pack. Straight from the kick off Creggs went back into the attack and extended the lead to 8-0 when Noel Gately converted a penalty after Dunmore were penalised under their own posts for offside at the breakdown.

 

Dunmore were now just coming to grips with the Creggs pack and getting some parity upfront and also created some chances when they moved the ball wide and reduced the lead to 8-3 when Creggs were offside from a clearing kick.

 

After 27 minutes Creggs again went upfield and pressurised the Dunmore Pack into conceding a penalty which again Noel Gately converted leaving the score 11-3. This score was short lived as with the last kick of the first Half Dunmores James Kilgarrif reduced the deficit to 11-6 with a penalty from just outside the 22.

 

Creggs made a few changes at half time and Dunmore took the early initiative and scored after 3 minutes in the corner which was expertly converted again by James Kilgarrif to make the score 13-11 in Dunmore favour.

 

Creggs went straight back on the attack after that score and in truth were the better team for the next 15 minutes and continued to pile on the pressure on their opponents, excellent play in the Backs by Ryan Horan and Rory O Brochalain kept their opposing backs guessing and upfront the new front row of Jamie Mee, Sean Gaffey and Ross Mugan were now doing great work in the tight, with Dylan Keavney again brilliant in the loose. Some great defence by Dunmore kept Creggs at bay and Creggs had opportunities from penalties 5 metres out and also scrums in similar positions, however after 50 minutes the pressure told when Tom Oates finished a fine forward effort to score under the posts which Noel Gately converted to leave the score 18-11 in Creggs favour.

 

Dunmore kept plugging away and had one more opportunity within the last few minutes to score in the corner but fine covering tackles and some excellent clearance kicks kept them at bay. Creggs play Claremorris next weekend in the next round of the League.

 

Under-16

Tuam RFC 10                                     Creggs 10

Creggs travelled to Tuam for round two of the U16 League last Thursday night.

This was a very competitive fixture and both teams had chances to win the game right until the end.

Creggs had the best of the early pressure and were camped in the Tuam 22 however some heroic defending and also some unfortunate knock ons at times kept the home line in tact.

Creggs too the lead through a Dylan Keavney Try after some sustained pressure close to the Tuam line after 15 minutes, which was converted by Noel Gatley.

Tuam then started to exerted some pressure of their own and after a misplaced defensive clearance they ran the ball wide and scored in the corner.

Noel Gately extended the lead to 10-5 with a penalty just before half time.

Creggs made a number of substitutions in the second half and both sides tried hard to make the breakthrough but both defences held firm until 5 minutes from the end when Tuam got a few fortunate bounces of the ball and managed to touch down in the corner to make the score 10-10

 

Creggs: Eoghan farrell, Mark Kearney, Sean Gaffey, Barry McDonnell, Brian Donohoe, Tom Oates, Ross Mugan, Mathew Brandon, Rory Collins, Neville Walker,  Noel Gately, Ryan Horan, Diarmuid Cunniffee, Evan Concur, Mark Naughton, John Brennan, Rory O Brochalain, Jack Caltagiron, Brian Collins. Ronan Raftery, Dylan Keavney