Wexford Wanderers RFC 29 V Kilkenny RFC 1st XV 14
Mens Leinster League 1B
Written by Órla Henebry
On a bright, clear day at O'Driscoll Park, Wexford Wanderers RFC delivered a dominant performance, defeating Kilkenny RFC 29-14 in their third Leinster League game.
Wexford took control early, scoring their first try within nine minutes, with out-half Donal Buckley adding the conversion to make it 7-0. Out-half Donal Buckley converted, putting the home side ahead 7-0.
Moments later, Wexford struck again, slicing through Kilkenny's defence for a second try, extending their lead to 14-0. Despite a strong showing from Kilkenny’s scrum, led by Brian Howe, Ben Devlin, and Josh Evans, a few crooked lineout throws disrupted their usual rhythm, allowing Wexford to capitalize. Ben McGuinnes scored a third try, pushing Wexford ahead 21-0.
A shift came when Wexford received two yellow cards in quick succession, giving Kilkenny a lifeline. They took advantage, with Joey Manuel crossing the try line after sustained pressure, bringing the halftime score to 21-7.
Wexford’s woes continued after the break with another yellow card for a deliberate knock-on. However, Kilkenny also suffered a setback as Ciaran Neil-Smith was shown yellow shortly after. Wexford took advantage, converting a penalty to make it 24-7.
Kilkenny fought back with Steve Atkinson scoring a try, and Dan O’Neill adding the conversion, closing the gap to 24-14. However, the game became chaotic with handling errors and misplaced kicks. Wexford was shown a straight red card for an off-the-ball incident involving Atkinson. Despite being a man up, Kilkenny couldn’t capitalize on the opportunity. In the dying minutes, Wexford secured their bonus point with a fourth try, sealing a decisive 29-14 victory.
Kilkenny's players and supporters were left disappointed by the loss, and the coaching staff will need to regroup as they prepare for a crucial match against Boyne RFC on Sunday, October 20th, in Foulkstown. This defeat leaves Kilkenny third from the bottom of the Leinster League table.
Wexford Wanderers RFC 10 V Kilkenny RFC 2nd XV 20
Kilkenny’s 2nd XV had more joy in Wexford on Sunday winning 20-10. Despite a slow start characterized by handling errors, Kilkenny rallied after going down 5-0 early in the game to secure a hard-fought victory.
The first half saw Kilkenny struggling to find their rhythm, with several unforced errors hindering their momentum. Wexford capitalized on these mistakes, taking an early lead. However, as the half progressed, Kilkenny began to find their footing. Liam O’Neill showed great determination to break through the Wexford defense, scoring Kilkenny's first try and igniting the team’s comeback. Further tries followed from Joe Connolly and Henry Tennyson.
The match concluded with Kilkenny celebrating a well-deserved win, showcasing their depth and resilience as they look ahead to the next fixture. The coaching staff will undoubtedly be pleased with the response shown after a shaky start, as the players continue to develop and build chemistry on the field.
Notable performances from Liam McWey, who returned from injury to play at loosehead prop and had a fine game, winger Tommy Murphy in his first game for the club was also a standout, as was all action back row player Joe Connolly.
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