AIB 13 - Stillorgan 12
Nov 23, 2003
In a very close encounter SRFC came out the wrong side of a one point game. SRFC conceded two poor unconverted trys in the first half in what could be described as a lapse in concentration by us as a team. In the latter stages of the first half SRFC came back stronger and were unlucky on a couple of occassions not to get a try but Danny Shanahan (playing No.8) salvaged some pride for us in the first half with a drop kick that even Jonny Wilkinson would have proud of. Score at half time 10-3.
In the second half SRFC were much the stronger with pick and go tactics used to great effect and strong rucking from the forwards ensuring plenty of possesion. But scores were hard to come by and it needed 3 forced penalties from good pressure to bring us within a point of AIB in the last 10 mins. Again missed chances were the order of the day with Mattie hitting the crossbar from a well hit penalty from just short of half way.
With only a couple of minutes remaining, Danny 'Golden Boots' fielded an AIB clearance just inside the AIB half a couple of metres in from the sideline. He shaped up for a second drop-goal but realising he was 3 miles from the goals decided to run with the ball instead. With good support and quick off-loading in the tackle, Barry Murphy finally got over the line but some banker managed to get under him to prevent the try. From the 5m scrum that followed, a knock-on by SRFC gave AIB a chance to clear their line and there ended our hope of victory. Final score 13-12.
Men of the match - Forwards = Danny Shanahan, Backs = Evan.