Kilkenny Womens XV 7-45 Ashbourne RFC
The Kilkenny Women’s rugby team returned to competitive action today at their home ground in Foulkstown for their first Leinster Division 3 league match against Ashbourne RFC.
Under clear, sunny skies, Kilkenny kicked off against Ashbourne, who immediately launched an attack down the wing. However, a superb early tackle from Isla Mosse halted their momentum, allowing Kilkenny to reset defensively. In the first scrum of the game, Kilkenny’s forward pack showcased their strength, driving Ashbourne back and putting them under pressure. Kilkenny capitalized on a handling error by Ashbourne when captain Megan Callaghan executed a brilliant cross-field kick, positioning Kilkenny deep in their opponents’ territory.
Kilkenny continued to dominate the early stages, keeping Ashbourne pinned back and forcing errors. However, a series of penalties conceded by Kilkenny allowed Ashbourne to find a gap in the defense, scoring the first try of the match, though the conversion sailed wide.
As the clock ticked down to halftime, the high intensity of the game began to show, with fatigue creeping in on both sides. Ashbourne took advantage, using their pace to break through Kilkenny’s defensive line at the 22 and score a second try, converting this one to stretch their lead.
A crucial line-out steal by Alice Murphy breathed life back into Kilkenny’s attack, with Jenny Kirwan making a powerful line break, but despite sustained pressure, Kilkenny couldn’t get on the scoreboard before the halftime whistle. They entered the break trailing 12-0.
The second half opened with another try for Ashbourne, bringing the score to 19-0 just minutes in. Kilkenny continued to fight back, benefiting from a high tackle penalty, but Ashbourne’s dangerous number 13 broke through from halfway, extending the lead further. Kilkenny found themselves under pressure again at their own 22, and Ashbourne quickly capitalized to score another try under the posts, making it 31-0.
Despite the mounting scoreline, Kilkenny’s spirit never wavered. Huge carries from Jenny Kirwan, Alice Brennan, and Lieke Hoban rallied the team as they fought to get back into the game. However, Ashbourne added another try to make it 38-0.
Ashbourne’s repeated high tackles finally saw them punished with a yellow card, and Kilkenny seized the opportunity. A scrum penalty allowed their powerful forward pack to drive over the line, with Lieke Hoban securing Kilkenny’s first try of the match. Emily Kenny added the conversion to bring the score to 38-7.
In the final moments, Ashbourne crossed the line once more, sealing a 45-7 victory. While the final scoreline was heavily in Ashbourne’s favor, it didn’t reflect the tenacity and hard work shown by Kilkenny throughout the game. All 15 players put in a determined effort, battling until the final whistle.
Lorna McMahon was deservedly named Player of the Match for her outstanding performance and relentless work rate.
Kilkenny will take many positives from this match as they continue their league campaign, knowing that their fighting spirit and teamwork will pay off in the games ahead.
By Marianne Jordan
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