Balbriggan women’s first XV got their Leinster League campaign up and running with a hard-fought victory over perennial rivals Naas at a blustery Bowhill on Sunday.
First half tries by Kate O’Molloy, from a brilliantly executed strike play, and Fiona Odige, off the back of a strong carry, both converted by Shannon Campbell, saw Balbriggan hold a slender14-10 advantage at halftime.
Early in the second half Balbriggan extended their lead with a fabulous try following a barnstorming run from debutant No. 8, Victoria Olatunji. The conversion stretched the lead out to 11. A dogged Naas team didn’t wilt and hit back strongly, dominating field position before creating space out wide to score in the corner for an unconverted try to make it a one score game.
Some slick handling in midfield allowed Rachel Fanning to burst through the Naas defence and score out wide. Shannon completed a flawless kicking display to add the extras for a 100% return on the day.
To their credit Naas cameback again with a series of pick and goes eventually breaking the home defence to score again. With the game in the balance the visitors threw everything they had at Balbriggan pounding away at the line repeatedly. Heroic defence from the home side repelled the Naas attack time and time again with the visitors held up over the line on a couple of occasions. The final whistle went with Balbriggan winners 28-22. A fantastic game of rugby by 2 committed teams. We wish Naas all the best for the rest of the season and look forward to the return fixture later in the season.
