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Skerries Under 17's vs Portlaoise, Quarter-Final Match Report (31.01.10)
Skerries 22 For the 2nd time in 7 days Skerries u17’s squad traveled to Portloaise to fulfill a quarter-final tie in the Leinster Youth Div.1 League. Lasts week’s expedition frustratingly ended without a game due to the absence of the appointed referee. Despite many efforts to get this fixture moved to a neutral venue the powers that be applied the letter of the law. The difference in weather conditions could not have contrasted more. 7 days ago the Midlands was wrapped in mist which would have made it difficult for any referee to spot all players from a short distance. Maximum visibility was available when the referee (marked present) started the game. Portloaise, without their No. 8 who was with the Ireland squad camp this weekend, commanded from the start, aided by a slight wind they continued to test the Skerries defense for some time till Shane Davis relieved the siege when he plucked a ball meant for his opposite winger to race under the posts from 60m. Outhalf Eoghan Carron converted. Undaunted the home side hit back with a well worked try out wide. Then despite Skerries taking control Portloaise nipped in to lead at half-time12 – 7. Skerries personnel changes made for the 2nd half proved decisive. Stephen Dwyer and Colin Horgan added dynamism in the loose. The scrum and lineout worked well and Dan Clear and Jordy Kavanagh secured possession with lineouts delivered expertly by Pierce Carthy-Heffernan. The back row unit of AJ Sherlock, Joe Palmer and Niall Collins were outstanding and drew compliments from the home sides’ coach. Eoghan Fox at full-back gave another master-class in the art. Mid-way through the half the pack drove AJ Sherlock to a try. Shane Davis scored Skerries third with the best backs move of the game to take the tie 22 – 17. They now progress to a mouth-watering semi-final contest with Longford next Sun. in Mullingar.
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