Men's 1st XV v Highfield- Match Report & Photo Gallery

Blackrock looked to atone for last week's defeat at home against a Highfield side buoyed by their opening round victory over Queens. Similar to last week the two sides shared the spoils last year with the home side benefitting on both occasions. A good omen one might think!!

Rock played with the benefit of storm Amy in the first half, attacking away from the clubhouse with a gale force wind. The wind played havoc with the kicking for both teams and the visitors capitalised on a kick dead to open the scoring. They doubled that lead shortly after with an intercept from the base of the ruck and like last week Rock were down before they could blink. Rock began to grow into the game but couldn't crack the defence and were made to pay when Highfield ran in a third try much to the shock of home crowd. There was just enough time for Rock to get on the board, good work by the forwards left them stopped a metre short before number 8 Odhran Ring burrowed over to dot down. 17-7 half-time.

Unlike the first half, Rock flew out of the blocks. Strong counter rucking by the forwards, snipes by both half backs and slick inter-play in the backline got Rock on the front foot. Ringrose found captain Roy Whelan whose carry was too much for the goal line defence and he dotted down for his first try in two years for the club. What's rare is wonderful!!

The gap was cut to 7 and would soon be 2, Rock went straight back up the field and after sustained pressure, it was the scum half Ringrose turn to snipe around the edges to score. It felt like all the ascendency was with the home side and despite the conditions they were on a roll.

Unfortunately, similar to last week after reducing the deficit to the one score, the visitors then pulled away again. A big carry by their inside centre extended the lead and secured their try bonus before a further 3 points were added on. Rock came again in search of two bonus points but were held up over the line in the last play. Highfield remain undefeated and for Rock that first win still alludes them this season. A tricky road trip to our old foes Queens awaits. No better place to get the season on the road.

Result from AIL Div 1B Saturday 4th October,

Blackrock College RFC 15 - 27 Highfield RFC.

All images provided by John Crothers of JC Sports Photography, in aid of Barretstown.