The team made the journey to Parsonstown on Saturday for Round 17 of the Energia AIL. With two games to go, Nenagh had already cemented their spot in the end of season playoffs with automatic promotion still a mathematical possibility were Queens and Blackrock ahead of them to slip up. Barnhall meanwhile were still in need of points to guarantee their own ticket to the playoffs. This combined with the inevitable come down for Nenagh from finally cracking the Cashel conundrum a week previously meant perhaps the home side's more pressing need would win out here.

As it was Nenagh started the brighter and went ahead through an early try but in absolutely awful conditions in Kildare but that was about as good as the first half was for Nenagh. The home side managed three converted tries in that period to all but lock down the result such were the worsening conditions as the second half beckoned. The second half was a more even affair with the weather being the dominant factor. Another Nenagh try was cancelled out by two penalties for the Barnhall men and the final score read 26-10 in the Kildare men’s favour.

There is every possibility these teams may face off again before the year is out with both now through to the playoffs. With Queens now 6 points ahead of Nenagh in first place automatic promotion is now off the table for Nenagh but the remaining home game against UL Bohemians on April 15 still offers the opportunity to overtake Blackrock in second place and secure a home draw for the Playoff semi finals. At a minimum a better performance will be hoped for to build momentum ahead of those playoffs. Given the overall form and achievements of the team this year that is absolutely in their capabilities. A historic step up to Division 1 rugby is still a very real possibility. Please mark April 15 in your diary and get out and support the team. K.O will be at 2.30pm in Lisatunny.