Naas 10 - Stillorgan 17
J3 Leinster League - Feb 20, 2005
Based on the reactions at the end of the game and the atmosphere in the dressing room afterwards, you would never have thought that we had won our 8th successive league game this season. We were disappointed by our performance but a win is a win so we shouldn't be too down-hearted about it.
The day started off badly for us when everyone spent an additional half hour driving around the Kildare country side looking for Naas RFC. By the time we all arrived there was only 30 minutes to kick-off so after a brief warm-up the match was on and we were 5 points down.
From the kick-off, Naas forced a lineout on our 22 from where they mauled their way over the line for the opening score. The conversion was missed but this was the wake up call we needed. For the next 10 minutes we defended solidly against a pack that contained a fair few Os du Randt look-a-likes before Danny blocked an attempted kick from the Naas out-half to run the ball back 40m for Stillorgan's first try of the day. Five minutes later and we were crossing the line again. This time it was Stephen who blocked an attempted grubber by the same out-half and returned it for a second try under the posts. With our tails up and playing well it wasn't long before we were over the line again to bring the score up to 17-5 (can't remember who scored). We were now well in control and could have scored another couple of tries before the half-time interval except for valiant last ditch tackling by Naas.
Despite having the breeze at our backs for the second half, we never got going for the final 40 minutes of this game. 20 minutes into the second half Naas crossed the line for their second try after good back play in their midfield. The conversion was missed and the score was now 17-10 to the visitors. From the restart we marched up the field and forced a penalty. Unfortunately the ensuing kick was pulled to the left and wide. Despite coming under fierce pressure for the remaining 20 minutes we held out for a hard earned victory. We shouldn't be so down after such a result as we can't play Barbarian style rugby every week so let's move on and worry about the next game in a few weeks time.
Match report by Leo