Nenagh Ormond U16  37 Desmond U16 29

Nenagh Ormond under 16s played Desmond in the north Munster League cup semi-final and what an entertaining game unfolded! Playing on Newcastle West’s fantastic new field, it ended up being a real ding dong battle between the two sides. Nenagh scored first after a quick tap penalty was moved to Tadhg Teefey who threw a great pass to Cody O’Connor who fed Tommy Powell for an excellent finish in the corner. Desmond scored next to leave it all square at 5 each. Desmond then took the lead with another well taken try. Nenagh responded with two more tries, the first one finished off very well by Marcus Finn in the corner and the second one by Harry Walsh after some brilliant backline play.  Desmond got the final score of the half under the posts to leave it all square at 17 all.

There was very little between the teams at this stage of the game. Desmond seemed to start with second half with real intent and were first to score but missed the conversion. Nenagh responded well and Cody O’Connor finished out a good team try after multiple phases. The conversion was missed so it was all square again. Desmond scored next after a miscommunication in defence, and they kicked the conversion to move ahead by 7. Nenagh came back with real purpose and were starting to make good yards with the ball in hand. They were unlucky not to score after a handling error close to their line.  Nenagh kept their composure to put the opposition under a lot of pressure. From a lineout Luke Slattery collected an overthrow and powered his way over the line. The conversion was missed so Nenagh remained 2 behind. Undaunted, Nenagh were going through a purple patch and scored next from deep. Cody O’Connor beat 3 defenders and ran 60 yards to get the try under the posts for a straightforward conversion. Nenagh now led by 5 as the game entered the final stages. A late penalty stretched the lead to 8 allowing Nenagh to hold out for a tough victory.

This was an excellent win dug out of the trenches and showed the team’s great character. Well done to all the squad. Nenagh now have a final against Ennis, who overcame Garryowen/Newport 19-12 in the other semi-final, to look forward to in the new year. Thanks to all the parents and supporters who shouted the boys on from the touchline.