The Stingers stepped straight into their new season with a Blitz in Barnhall. Big shout out to Barnhall for organising such a great day and the first summer day since June! The Stingers were joined by four players from the Edenderry Sharks who had travelled light and were very happy to be able to get some game time. Their first match was against Seapoint Dragons and this was a very close encounter with Balbriggan only scraping home 4-3 in a very enjoyable game. Speed merchants James RB and Ashwin were everywhere, you would think it was their first day out after a long lock up. James used his turn of speed and jinky running to be the difference between the teams. Their second match was a different affair when they were up against the Barnhall Youths U16 side. The youths underestimated the agility of the Stingers and their quick tagging. The Stingers also had a secret weapon in the match from Edenderry, Tara McDermott, who scored a hat trick. Tim and Ashwin were also scorers as the Stingers ran out 6-2 winners. Their third game was against old friends DLSP. Their Coach Dave has a rule that no one is allowed score against them but the Stingers obviously weren’t listening, with James O’C getting in on the scoring this time. Arch poacher Philip was also on hand to get on the score sheet. In the final tally the Stingers had edged ahead. New Captain Andy had a quiet afternoon and spent time directing his team while vice Captain David was hoarse shouting instructions. The last match saw them up against Portadown. Stephen used his contacts to sign up Leinster and Irish star, Will Connors, for the Stingers. Though it seemed to backfire against them as it was hard to tell who was offside more Philip or Will, neither of them having a clue where the back foot was!! Whist it was only tag Philip managed to develop a ruck and Will couldn’t resist putting his hands in. Penalty Portadown, a substitution was quickly made. While Stephen and Tim got across the line, Portadown snuck the match 4-3.
It was a great day’s fun in the sun.. The team were very happy with their performance and a big tank you to coaches Kevin, Adrienne and Caroline for all their work with the team on the day. Also, thanks to Bob for coming out of retirement and reffing three of the Balbriggan games.
