Dundalk 10 Balbriggan 34
Balbriggan got their Magee cup challenge back on track with a bonus point win in Dundalk today. This was the team’s first away win of the season and gives the team a great boost to get that bogey off their back. However things weren’t going all Balbriggan’s way and it was Dundalk who struck first with a converted try. Balbriggan got back on level terms with a well taken try by Tommy O’Toole but Dundalk snook ahead with a penalty. The Dundalk pack had a few kilos on their Balbriggan counterparts and in the first half made this tell. However the Balbriggan defence was good and in particular skipper, Tom Hagan, and centre Ian Murphy tackling everything that came at them. Balbriggan kept up the pressure and O’Toole got in for his second try. He has been in fine form this season and given half a gap will get himself across the line.
Just before half time Balbriggan lost out half Phelan with a calf injury but Murphy stepped seamlessly into the position and kept the backs flowing. Malone had been very strong for Balbriggan in the loose and was well supported by No 8 O’Toole. They continued to set up good possession for Balbriggan but the Dundalk line held. Balbriggan just ahead at the break 12-10.
In the second half the Dundalk pack tired and this allowed Balbriggan get greater possession, Kyle Healy at scrum half kept Dundalk guessing as he mixed his game with a series of quick breaks or straight to his backs. Dundalk were got off side on a number of occassions but Healy only converted one.
A series of good back play and some incisive running from Mullen at full back saw Steve Keegan score a fine try on the wing. Glenn Healy then secured the bonus point when he dumbied his opposing number and got in under the posts. Mullen finished the scoring with a fine solo effort at the end.
A good day for the Balbriggan backs but the pack know they have still a little work to do get themselves to the required level.
Next week Balbriggan face Boyne in Balbriggan at 8pm. The U15/16 squad also have their first outing with a home game against Liberty Saints.
