NUIM Barnhall 15 v Balbriggan 12
This Leinster League Div 3 Women’s rugby clash proved to be a very close encounter. Balbriggan defended very well with early pressure from Barnhall and managed to work their way up the field. Balbriggan were awarded a penalty from 10 metres out in the first 10 mins. Skipper Sandra took a quick tap but was unlucky to be held up. Both teams were deadlocked on nil v nil until 6 mins before the break when Barnhall scored an unconverted try. Balbriggan responded almost immediately with a try. This came from a quick ball from the back of the scrum from Rachel Mulligan to Dearbhla Sheridan. The out half managed to break through the Barnhall defense and off load to full back Kelly Morgan. The try was converted by Dearbhla Sheridan. Balbriggan went into halftime leading 5 v 7. Barnhall started the 2nd half strong and managed to score another try which again went unconverted. This put Barnhall back in the lead 10 v 7. Balbriggan piled on the pressure again. Strong running by the backs ended with another try by Kelly Morgan. This try went unconverted with Balbriggan edging ahead 10 v 12. Barnhall came back at Balbriggan and their No7 managed to get over the line to make it 15 v 12. That try went unconverted also. The game finished that way. Balbriggan were well deserving of the away bonus point and unlucky not to have taken the win. This was one of Balbriggan’s best performances so far this season. Special mention must go to winger Catherine Livesey who made a number of brilliant tackles in the game including a try saving effort late in the second half.
