Munster U-14 Cup
Clonmel RFC 17 UL Bohemians 5
Report: JJ Killian

Kings of Munster!
There are not too many out there who can say “I played in a cup final in Thomond Park – and won!” On Saturday afternoon last, a terrific group of young men from Clonmel joined the exclusive club which can make that claim. Two groups of very partisan supporters (no neutrals here!) were treated to a terrific game of rugby between two very well coached teams – their overall understanding of the game, the offensive plays and the defensive set-ups were amazing for this age level – the movement, ball-handling, tackling and teamwork seemed so befitting of this hallowed turf. The game was played on the full-sized pitch which seemed a daunting task but these youngsters seemed to revel in the circumstances.
Clonmel played with a slight breeze in the first half – not that this was a factor as kicking is not a feature at this age level. The game was played with abandon and some incisive running by both sides was met with equally good defensive tackling – it was a joy to watch. Clonmel had more possession in the early stages but determined defence by UL Bohemians limited their chances. Then the Limerick team seemed to come into the game and only some brave tackles kept Clonmel secure. Bohemians kept attacking but when a pass went to ground, Tadgh Dunlea pounced and was over the line in a flash. The conversion went wide but Clonmel were now 5-0 ahead.
The second half started out as a very even contest but the neutral spectator (we’re still looking for one!) could see that Clonmel now had the edge all over the pitch. Midway through the second half, a great move by Clonmel split open the Bohemians’ defence and Joe O’Donovan had the presence to go all the way under the posts to ensure the conversion and put the Tipperary side 12-0 ahead. But the Limerick team kept fighting and a mistake by Clonmel let them in for their only score to leave the visiting team 12-5 ahead. But now Clonmel pressed their advantage and Bohemians found it very difficult to execute any exit. The constant pressure had to tell and another terrific backs move put Oisin Walsh over in the corner to move Clonmel 17-5 ahead. Bohemians could not bridge that gap and the final whistle hastened wild celebrations. A great performance by a brilliant unit who have remained unbeaten all season – great credit is due to coaches Mark Normile, Tom Dunlea, Sean Flack, Tim O’Donovan, James Williams, Padraig Walsh and John O’Mahony. As van Morrison would say “there’ll be days like this”. There will be but they are rare so cherish the memories. Well done. The club’s production line is in rude health.
U-14 Squad:
C. Sweeney, J. O’Donovan, T. Dunlea, E. Lavery, S. Normile, J. Prazan, J. Blanchfield, C. Morris, J. Morrissey, J. Phelan, C. Williams, S. Delahunty, J. Burke, C. Morrisson, P. Normile, J. Cummins, C. Walsh, O. Walsh, O. McCarthy, J. Davis, C. O’Donnell, J. Fitzpatrick, K. Hackett, A. Lewandawski, R. Hally, O. Doocey, S. O’Mahony, D. Flack, M. Masuku, J. Cronin, M. Maher

Photos Courtesy of : Michael Doocey

C'Mon Clonmel