Sligo Grammar School’s junior side advanced to the Connacht Junior Cup semi-final with an impressive 36-0 victory over St. Calasanctus College, Oranmore at the Mall on Friday last. They play Clifden Community School in the semi-final in Westport on Wednesday February 27th.
Grammar laid the foundation for this success in the first half when playing into the very strong wind. Their strong pack were dominant, while their back line carved up the Oranmore defence. They led by 24-0 at the interval, but in the second half, the tempo of the game dropped, and some uncharacteristic errors crept into their play. No doubt this will be addressed by coach, Jimmy Staunton and Simon Galvan before the next game.
However, in the opening half, the performance was excellent. In the pack there were big performances from tearaway open side, Thomas Ferrari, Diarmuid O’Dowd-Hill in the second row, David Heath at No. 8 and Blygh McCormack at tight head. Behind the scrum, outside centre and captain, John Healy, gave a man of the match display, as he cut through the defence repeatedly. His centre partner, Keith McGoldrick was also dangerous. Out-half, Eoin Doherty’s goal kicking in the blustery conditions was outstanding, scrum-half, Enda Gavin’s passing was fast and accurate, while full-back, Jason McGoldrick, the youngest player on the pitch, looks destined to star for school and club over the coming years. Grammar’s scorers were Healy two tries, loose head, Donal Rooney, Jason McGoldrick and Eoin Doherty a try each. Doherty also kicked four conversions and landed a penalty in a tour de force goal-kicking performance.
Overall, a very satisfactory performance, as the scoring of five tries and the concession of none amply testifies.
Grammar School: Jason McGoldrick, Charlie Barrett, John Healy [c.], Keith McGoldrick, Jonathan Beirne, Eoin Doherty, Enda Gavin, Donal Rooney, Ivan Donoghue, Blygh McCormack, Diarmuid O’Dowd-Hill, Colin Goulden, Jack Roberts, David Heath, Thomas Ferrari. Subs: Eoghan Kilroy, Givlio Schinai, Robert Smith, Michael Martin, Enda Cawley, Simon Mullaney, Nathan Cafolla. Referee: Dave Roberts [Ballinrobe RFC].
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