3…2…1… and with the sounding of the hooter, two action-packed days of rugby kicked off with gusto. Who would emerge as early frontrunners for the Senior Cup? How would the English and Welsh sides fare? Would the heavily fancied sides from the north perform a smash and grab of sorts, hoping to take the specially commissioned trophy back up the M1?
So many questions to answer… so little time to actually sit and ponder them!
Following the unexpected travails of the Crescent transportation, Clongowes were left to wait in the wings as Campbell, Newbridge, Blackrock, PBC, RBAI and our Welsh visitors Colegy Cymeodd entered the fray. If anything, the first round taught us that there would be little predictability in the day ahead.
With 10-minute halves separated by 3-minute intervals played at a near-Cup intensity, one began to feel a little sorry for the referees. However, their preference for free-flowing rugby allowed each game to ebb and flow as the day progressed. The caddy cars that met them at the game’s end were no doubt appreciated!
Despite the likelihood of stalemates the officials were also kept busy as the scoreboard continued to tick over. Scorecards became ever more valuable with the permutations of the competition dictating that where teams could not be separated, a head-to-head would determine the outcome.
All-in-all the spectators were treated to a terrific feast of rugby, complete with choice music and delicious burgers. With fans being drawn from across the country to see who will claim the historic bicentennial trophy tomorrow, be sure to get here early and enjoy another day of quality sportsmanship.
Games will kick-off at 10am with the final scheduled for a 2pm start.
For more photos of the action (courtesy of Mr. David Nelson) check out our new Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/clongoweswoodcollegesj
Cup Group 1: Clongowes Wood, Blackrock College, Ivybridge, Methody College
Cup Group 2: CBC Cork, St. Michael’s College, Crescent Comp., PBC Cork
Shield Group 3: Newbridge College, Coleg y Cymoedd, Gonzaga, Terenure
Shield Group 4: Wallace HS, Rockwell College, RBAI, Campbell College
Plate: Castleknock, Belvedere, St. Mary’s, Roscrea
R. McElwee