Congratulations to Clontarf FC who lifted the 98FM Metropolitan Cup by defeating NUIM Barnhall 21-16 in Donnybrook on Sunday afternoon…
The match began as many might have predicted with Clontarf applying a lot of early pressure. This pressure paid off when, following a decisive break from Leinster academy full back Mikey Sherlock, winger Colin Murphy put Clontarf ahead. This was followed by a try from some quick thinking from the energetic Clontarf hooker Cathal O’Flynn to leave ‘Tarf ahead 12 – 3.
It looked like Clontarf would stroll home from here. However, Barnhall were never going to give in that easy and began a character filled fight back. Using some strong play through their forwards and playing a lot of territory Barnhall found themselves well and truly back in the game when the industrious Barnhall winger Mark Kavanagh went over for a try on half time to leave the score line very close at 12 – 11 to ‘Tarf.
Clontarf showed great experience and no lack of composure in steering themselves into an 18 – 11 lead with 15 minutes to go through the boot of ex Irish 20s player Martin Dufficy. Then came the score that gave them a bit of breathing room as replacement outhalf Matthew D’Arcy hit a massive drop goal from half way to go two scores clear.
Barnhall again displayed their tenacious, never say die attitude. They controlled the ball for a number of phases starting from just outside their own 22. Their determination was rewarded with Conor Harding going under the sticks after great work from the entire Barnhall pack.
However, the conversion was charged down and Clontarf were able to maintain their 21 – 16 advantage until the final whistle.
