Prior to the recent AIL Division 1 game between Clontarf and St. Mary’s College in Castle Avenue, Leinster Head Coach Joe Schmidt gave an interesting and light-hearted speech to members from both clubs at the pre-match meal…
Joe spoke of his own time playing rugby in Ireland and taking part in the Towns Cup, as well as coaching in Wilson’s Hospital in Mullingar.
He also revealed that while watching a Clontarf game a few seasons back, he noticed the skills of ‘Tarf hooker Aaron Dundon and quickly signed him up for Leinster – highlighting the on-going need for rugby at club level.
Members of both clubs then faced the cold night air to take in what proved to be a very tough and exciting game between last year’s top two sides.
The game ended in dramatic style with Clontarf failing with two drop-goal attempts to seal a win over the Templeogue based side and St. Mary’s won out 19-17.
