This entry was posted in News on August 19, 2020 by Jean.

Sligo R.F.C. are delighted to be running the IRFU Give it a Try program again this year. The program is designed for girls aged 8 to 14 to learn how to play rugby in a safe and fun environment. The fun and games will take place every Sunday for 4 weeks, starting on August 30th at a cost of only €10 for all 4 sessionsIf you’re looking for a great way to get your girls into a great sporting community then please come along to the home of rugby in the North West -Hamilton Park Strandhill on Sunday 30th August from 11a.m. to 12 noon. For more info or to register your interest please contact Dominic on 086 2269284 or email dominic_galwey@yahoo.co.uk

This entry was posted in News on August 10, 2020 by Jean.

Former Connacht President Joe Burgess pictured with the incoming Connacht Junior President Mickey O’Hehir

The 2019/20 AGM took place last Wednesday evening with a large attendance, the first time the clubhouse has been open since early March. Club Chairperson Niall Gray opened the meeting with the news that Mickey O’Hehir has been appointed Connacht Junior President, this announcement was followed by a large cheer and a standing ovation for Mickey.

Club Secretary Martha Cosgrove read the minutes from last year’s AGM and reported on the curtailed season. Outgoing Chairperson, Niall Gray, thanked the players and managements for their dedication to the club, and thanked the membership for their great support for all our teams throughout the season. The Under 15 team were congratulated on having won the Connacht league.
Rory Raftery, Finance Chairperson, reported on the financial situation of the club and the continuing plans for development. The Club is indebted to all those who gave their time and expertise in the organisation and promotion of fundraising events last season.

The former committee were thanked for all their hard work and the new committee were elected. Congratulations to Tom Nielsen who takes over the role of Club Chairperson, the first Dane to do so.

Officers elected for Season 2020-21:
President                                                            Niall Gray
Senior Vice President                                    Jean Mc Connell
Junior Vice President                                    TBA
Chairperson                                                      Tom Nielsen Hon
Treasurer                                                            Michael Shovelin
Hon Secretary                                                  Roisin Buckley
Finance Chairperson                                     Rory Raftery Grounds
House Chairperson                                        Brian Roche
Football Chairperson                                    TBA
PRO                                                                       Jean Mc Connell
Membership Secretary                                 Gavin Laws
Youth Co-ordinator                                        Hugh O’Hehir
Juvenile Committee                                      Phelim O’Connor
                                                                                Eddie Beirne
                                                                                David Gerrity
Volunteer Co-ordinator                                Jacqui Cunningham
Covid-19 Safety Officer                                 John Garvey

This entry was posted in News on July 26, 2020 by Jean.

This year’s AGM will take place on Wednesday, 5th August at 8pm in the Clubhouse. All members are invited to attend.

Please note the following
Pre-registration is obligatory under HSE rules – you must confirm your attendance tomarthacosgrove@hotmail.com by 12 noon on Tuesday, 4th August.
ONLY those who have pre-registered can be admitted to the AGM
Only paid up Members of Sligo RFC can vote at the AGM
The Personal Assessment Declaration form must be completed BEFORE attending and submitted at the door
If you are feeling unwell on the day of the AGM DO NOT ATTEND THE AGM
Bring your own mask and hand sanitiser for personal use
The 2 meters distancing rule must be respected throughout the AGM
Motions and nominations to be submitted to Martha Cosgrove on email marthacosgrove@hotmail.com before 8p.m. on Monday, 3rd August

This entry was posted in News on June 28, 2020 by Jean.

The IRFU have reviewed the Government of Ireland Phase 3 guidelines for the return of sporting activity from 29th June and have updated the Return to Rugby Roadmap for clubs.

All clubs must complete the COVID-19 Safety Planning Stage before moving to the resumption of training at any level.

Key Points:
 •  Clubs in ROI that have completed the COVID19 Safety Planning Stage can advance to Non-Contact Rugby Stage from the 1st July, 2020
 •  As per above conditions, Clubs can advance to Contact Rugby Stage from 20th July 2020
 •  IRFU will provide further detail on Non-Contact and Contact stages of Return to Rugby by 26th June, 2020
 •  Update pending on Non-Contact training element of Step 2 of the NI Coronavirus Regulations
 •  Paperless Pre-Return to Rugby Personal Assessment Declaration Form available from 13th July 2020
 •  Club competitions are set to commence in September 2020
Player welfare a key focus of the Return to Rugby Roadmap
 •  IRFU to issue supplementary PPE kits to clubs w/c 29th June 2020

The full statement goes into specific detail about What Clubs can do in the Non-Contact Stage (From Wednesday 1st July, 2020). Please read the full statement here.

This entry was posted in News on June 20, 2020 by Jean.

There was exciting news from Irish Rugby last week when they launched a roadmap aimed at the graduated reopening of rugby clubs & return to rugby activities.

The club have a lot of planning & procedures to put into place before a return to play can happen.

Our specific return to play can only be planned once all the necessary procedures/risk assessments have been completed and submitted to the IRFU.

COVID compliance officers will be appointed & trained for each team. We will keep you informed as the club work towards a safe return to rugby and directives for running rugby evolve.

Sligo RFC will issue updates as available, but for now the club & pitches remain closed. We ask everyone to respect this until further notice.

This entry was posted in News on June 12, 2020 by Jean.

𝙒𝙖𝙡𝙠 𝙤𝙧 𝙍𝙪𝙣 𝙬𝙞𝙩𝙝 𝙎𝙡𝙞𝙜𝙤 𝙍𝙪𝙜𝙗𝙮 𝘾𝙡𝙪𝙗 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙏𝙝𝙚 𝙎𝙖𝙢𝙖𝙧𝙞𝙩𝙖𝙣𝙨. 𝙒𝙚 𝙣𝙚𝙚𝙙 𝙮𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙝𝙚𝙡𝙥!

Due to COVID 19 pandemic, there has been a halt put to sporting activities and fundraising opportunities for charities and sports teams alike. Sligo Rugby Club has had to cancel all of its traditional fundraisers which are the lifeblood of the Club. Now more than ever our club needs your support.

This crisis is the biggest challenge the Sligo Samaritans has ever faced. Whatever you’re going through, a Samaritan will face it with you. They are here 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. They are waiting for your call. Freephone them on 116 123.

Everything we can raise for them will go towards keeping their doors and phone lines open so that they can continue to be here for us.

𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝘄𝗲 𝗱𝗼𝗶𝗻𝗴?
All club players from U7s to Senior, all supporters and friends of Sligo Rugby Club have decided to take matters into their own hands and set out to claim the virtual Grand Slam glory and raise some badly needed funds for both Sligo Rugby Club and The Samaritans.

𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗱𝗼 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗺𝗲𝗮𝗻 “Grand Slam”?
It all started on the June Bank Holiday Monday we set off to virtually claim the Triple Crown by walking or running 2,000km from Sligo to Edinburgh Stadium, to Twickenham, to the Millennium Stadium and home. Having reached Cardiff, in just over a week, we set our sights on the greater glory of conquering Paris and Rome and laying claim to the title of the virtual Grand Slam.

𝗖𝗮𝗻 𝘄𝗲 𝗝𝗼𝗶𝗻 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗗𝗼𝗻𝗮𝘁𝗲?
Everyone can join in – players, supporters and friends of Sligo RFC. It’s very simple – answer the call by following the steps below
Go out and walk or run in your club colors – respecting Social Distancing of course

When you are finished take a selfie with the thumbs up (Spread the positivity!)

Post on your social media tagging @SligoRFC (just telling us how far you went and use the hashtags #TripleCrown #SligoRFC)
Finally, donate to the GoFundMe campaign : shorturl.at/oxzD1

This entry was posted in News on May 1, 2020 by Jean.

Club President 2019/20 Jacqui Cunningham pictured with Cork Constitution Vice President Donal Lenehan

I know, like myself, you are all disappointed at the abrupt end of our rugby season, especially due to such difficult and challenging circumstances for us all.

This Saturday, April 18th, would have been our final AIL fixture against Galwegians at home in Hamilton Park. I had certainly hoped it would not have been my final game as President.

What a season we have had as a Club coming now in to our 130th anniversary year winning both the Connacht Senior League and Cup for the first time in our history. Both definite, stand out moments for me as President for our team to have achieved such successes. Winning the Connacht Senior Cup led to an historic meeting with Cork Con, captained of course by a Sligo man Niall Kenneally and represented, as Vice President, by the one and only Donal Lenihan. It certainly was a fantastic and proud day for our Club and team, led by co-captains Ryan Feehily and Shane O’Hehir, both on and off the pitch.

It has been a roller coaster season with some amazing and exciting rugby played by us and some heartbreak moments from last minute scores against us.

As you all know by now our Senior Coaching & Management Team of Paddy, Jason, John and John are finishing after two fantastic seasons at the helm. I cannot express enough our gratitude to them all for their commitment and professionalism at the helm. They have given us two fantastic seasons that none of us will forget. Thank you all so much, you will certainly be a hard act to follow. We look forward to you joining the crew on the magic bus in the future as it will help to bring down the age profile!

I would like to congratulate the U15s on their Connacht League title and The Gulls, who will forever have the accolade of being the only team to finish the 2019/20 season. Thanks to the Development Squad for their continued commitment on and off the pitch.

I would like to thank everyone involved in our great Club; all of our players from the 21 teams, all of our Coaching & Management teams, all Committee members, all volunteers, all of our Club members from near and far and of course a special thanks to all the parents, partners and family members of our players/coaches for your support in enabling the commitment that they give to the Club.

A special thank you to our supporters who honestly are the best and the most-travelled of all the Clubs that we meet in the AIL.

I would personally like to thank the following ladies for all their help throughout the season, it was very much appreciated : Jean McConnell (P.R.O.) for her outstanding dedication and commitment to Sligo RFC, Mary O’Hehir and her Catering Team for all the amazing pre-match lunches and ongoing commitment to the Club, Martha Cosgrove (Secretary) for her organisational skills in a very demanding role. Many thanks to all of the Committee Members (too many to mention) for all their hard work and tiredness commitment to the Club – again much appreciated.

It has been an honour and a privilege to have represented Sligo RFC as President this season. I would personally like to thank all who have supported me during this time, this support was very much appreciated.

I have thoroughly enjoyed my time in the role of President and wish every success to in-coming President Niall Gray.

Finally, I look forward to the eventual start of rugby again for Sligo and all around our great country. We have all missed it, but have especially missed the camaraderie that comes from it. I look forward to meeting you all again when we get through this. Keep safe and well.

Jacqui Cunningham
Sligo Rugby Club President 2019/20

This entry was posted in News on May 1, 2020 by Jean.

Position: Director of Rugby
Responsibilities: The Director of Rugby is responsible for the playing structure of the club (for Senior rugby in the club) and will coach our 1st and 2nd teams. The post-holder’s primary responsibility is for the recruitment, development and management of all players (senior players) and coaches in the club.

The Director of Rugby will be responsible for the vision, strategic direction and management of rugby in the club, thereby maintaining the continuous development of the club and its players

This role includes:
 •  Lead the Elite Rugby (AIL 2B and Connacht Junior 1A) agenda within the Club. Working in conjunction with the Rugby Chairman/Committee, team management and coaches to create processes, training plans and an environment that will enable players to succeed on and off the field.
 •   Develop and Implement a coordinated coaching programme for all teams (senior teams). Develop and implement a coordinated coaching programme throughout all sections of the Club.
 •  Co-ordinating the implementation of the Club’s agreed playing philosophy throughout all sections of the Club (senior teams).
 •  Co-ordinate with the Rugby Committee on the recruitment and retention of players, coaches and management and developing and maintaining links with local schools, IT Sligo and Connacht Rugby.
 •  Oversee the implementation of the IRFU Long Term Player Development programme throughout the Club.
 •  Report to the Executive Committee on rugby matters and make recommendations on improvements/ initiatives that need to be implemented.
 •  Provide succession planning to ensure that qualified coaches are appointed to all teams and receive the appropriate training required by attending designated coaching courses.
 •  Set behavioural standard policies for all teams (senior teams) at that start of the season.
 •  Liaise with the Club coaches, players committee and team captains on matters such as playing facilities, equipment, playing gear etc.
 •  Be aware of all administrative procedures regarding player registration and eligibility.

Applicants will need to have experience at a senior level (IRFU Stage 4 or equivalent) and be able to demonstrate the ability to implement change along with an outstanding commitment to the further development of rugby in the club. They will be committed to providing quality opportunities and experiences for all players, developing skills and excellence.

The qualifications and attributes of the successful applicant can be outlined as follows:
 •  Relevant coaching experience with a successful track record at a high level within rugby.
 •  A comprehensive understanding of the running of an AIL rugby club and its associated teams as well as being responsible for a large number of the operational aspects of the club.
 •  The ability to build, lead and manage a team of coaches and support staff (across adult and youth) forming strong relationships based on mutual respect and trust, reinforced with excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
 •  An in-depth knowledge and experience of rugby at the higher levels with a view to player recruitment and development.

Hours and financial package are for discussion at interview stage.

Applications for this opportunity should be sent by email only to:
info@sligorfc.ie

This entry was posted in News on April 14, 2020 by Jean.

Having made the play-offs last year, this season will always be known as the season of what might have been. Chasing another top 4 playoff spot and lying in 6th place, a single point behind Greystones (5th), the last four games of the season would have been epic. However, this was not to be and the rugby season was cut short with one foul swoop, Sligo Gulls will have the accolade of being the only one of the 21 Sligo teams to finish the 2019/20 season.

It goes without saying that all of the hard work on the pitch could not have been achieved without the work behind the scenes and the fervent support from the side-lines. Success at this level requires a concerted effort by a large number of people, each focused on playing their part in the ongoing story of our wonderful club: The management and coaching staff are at the core of this venture.

Sligo R.F.C. would like to recognise these achievements as being earned, on merit, by a special group of people. Senior head coach Paddy Pearson, Assistant coach Jason East and the senior management team of John Kane and John Keegan, who will all be stepping down from their roles after two years at the helm. We would like to sincerely thank them for their tireless commitment to the club. It is difficult to put into words the amazing job they did this year, showing skill, ambition, and a relentless desire to pursue excellence, which they did by creating a strong, team environment and securing the Connacht League and Cup double for the first time in the history of the club. You have left very big boots to fill.

This entry was posted in News on March 13, 2020 by Jean.

The Irish Rugby Football Union, together with Connacht, Leinster, Munster and Ulster Rugby have announced the suspension of all Domestic Rugby activity from 6pm this evening 12th March until the 29th March (inclusive), in response to the latest Government advice on the Coronavirus (Covid – 19) pandemic.

Future Domestic Rugby activity will be reviewed in line with government advice.

Training and Playing:

All Rugby activities across Clubs and Schools , from minis to adult rugby, must now cease.

Clubhouse Operations:

While Rugby Clubs may wish to continue to operate facilities such as bars and function-rooms they must observe government restrictions in relation to the number of people that may attend indoor (no more than 100 people) and outdoor (no more than 500 people) events.

Impact on fixtures of note:

We will work with clubs and schools to rearrange fixtures, such as the Schools Cup finals.

Professional Game:

Updates, when available, in relation to the professional game will come from tournament organizers.

This entry was posted in News on March 8, 2020 by John.

Corinthians RFC 24

Sligo RFC 8

Round 14 of Energia All Ireland division 2B action saw Sligo travel to Galway to take on Corinthians following the postponement of the fixture due to storm Jorge last weekend.

Corinthians fielded a formidable squad, boasting 9 players with Connacht Eagles experience while Sligo were strengthed with the return of Mata Fifita in his first game since picking an arm injury in the first half of the season.

The locals won the toss and elected to play against the stiff breeze in the first half. Sligo started brightly and used the conditions well to keep the Galway men pinned in their own 22 for the open 15 minutes.

Sligo’s endeavour was rewarded when Philip Carter squeezed in the left corner to open the scoring following a well worked right to left move.

Sligo continued to pressure their hosts with Shane Boyle, Tom Gormely and Kuba Wojtkowicz all making inroads with some fine carrying and Stephen Kerins and Ryan Feehily proving a handful. Sligo’s effort was rewarded midway through the half with a Euan Brown penalty but with conditions rapidly deteriorating rather the visitors let a number of chances slip and failed to significantly add to their tally.

A lapse in Sligo’s discipline just before half time gave Corinthians a rare attackIng opportunity and centre Cathal Evans took full advantage by chipping the defence, collecting and dotting down under the crossbar. Conor Dean converted to leave Sligo holding the narrowest of leads at the interval.

Sligo turned to face the wind and rain in the second half and held possession to work their way into the scoring zone. Unfortunately, a wayward kick turned over possession and the chance was lost. Corinthians made the most of the let off, used the wind to boot the ball downfield and with a massive shift in momentum scored their second try of the day.

Sligo continued to battle but couldn’t regain the upper hand and a Dean penalty and a third Corinthians try at the death meant the Yeats men had to leave empty handed.

With 34 points and 4 games remaining Sligo are still in contention for a play off spot and will be looking to get back on track when they travel to Dungannon next Saturday. The match kicks off at 2.30 at Stevenson Park.

This entry was posted in News on April 7, 2019 by John.

Dungannon RFC 22

Sligo RFC 25

Sligo confirmed their place in All Ireland League Division 2B promotion play-off with a hard fought victory in a pulsating encounter over Dungannon RFC at Stevenson park on Saturday. Sligo’s win guarantees fourth place in division 2B, nine points ahead of fifth with one game to play and sets up a mouthwatering trip to Dublin to play Blackrock College RFC in the first round of the playoffs.

Sligo kicked off playing into the slight breeze on a surface suitable for running rugby. The opening exchanges were dominated by the hosts and Sligo found themselves behind from a penalty after 10 minutes and a converted try on the 25th minute.

Sligo dug in and began to impose their own play on the hosts. The scrum was solid with Tom Gormely, Kuba Wojtkowicz and Conor Mitchell putting in a strong shift. Ciaran Cassidy and Matt Davey were carrying strongly and Shane O’ Hehir was combining well with Rob Holian and Diarmuid O’Dowd-Hill at the lineout. The back three of Niall Gray,Phillip Carter and Calum Goddard we’re dealing well with any threat from the local backline. Sean Wynne was his usual industrious presence at the tackle line.

Sligo’s persistence paid off with 35 minutes on the clock. Good work from the forwards brought play close to the Dungannon line before the home team were forced into the concession of a penalty and a yellow card for their number 8. Sligo sensed blood and opted for a scrum. The home team survived the first wave of attack but Sligo dug in. Euan Brown and Mitchell both tested the defence before scrum half Ryan Feehily brilliantly sniped down the right of the ruck and touched down under the posts. Jack Keegan added the extras to shorten the gap to three.

Right on the interval Sligo struck again. Shane O’Hehir made a searing break from deep in Sligo territory before being hauled down in the Dungannon 22. A quick recycle gave speedster Calum Goddard the chance to race around the cover and dot down in the corner to move Sligo into a two point lead at the break.

Unfortunately O’Hehir had to retire shortly afterwards through injury but was ably replaced by his brother James, making his welcome return to AIL action following a long period of injury.

The lead changed hands again early in the second half as the home side benefited with an unconverted try following a lapse in concentration in the Sligo defence, but Sligo wrestled back the initiative with Feehily’s second of the day following up on a Wojtkowicz drive that was stopped short. Keegan converted to move the score to 15-19.

With 15 minutes remaining the home team again took back the lead with a try from a driving lineout maul, the successful conversion put three between the sides.

Sligo again responded with some fine tactical kicking from Mark Butler putting pressure on the home defence. The pressure paid off and Keegan slotted over an equalising penalty with ten minutes remaining remaining before taking the lead with three minutes to go with another excellently struck effort.

The drama didn’t end there though and with seconds left on the clock Dungannon were awarded a penalty outside the Sligo 22. The home outfit opted to go for the win and turned down the three point attempt to go to the corner instead. Sligo however were not to be beaten and O’Dowd-Hill got the first hand to the lineout feeding replacement scrum half Brendan Cunningham whose pass to Butler was the final one of day. Butler kicked the ball to touch and Sligo were celebrating.

Sligo now face Sundays Well in Strandhill in the final game of regular league action next Saturday at 2.30 before travelling east to Stradbrook to face Blackrock. While not yet confirmed, the playoff match is likely to be fixed for Easter Saturday April 20th.

This entry was posted in Match Reports, Photos, Youth and tagged Ballina, U13 on April 2, 2019 by SligoRugbyNews.

Sligo RFC’s youngest 15 a side team were convincing winners over Ballina in a thrilling cup semi final contest in Hamilton Park on Saturday.

The Sligo boys started strongly receiving the kick off and retaining the ball well in the early phases with openside flanker Dean Davey soon breaking free to cross for the first score. Out Half Mark Tempany stepped up to slot the conversion adding the points.

Sligo continued to apply the pressure with some strong ball carries by their forwards , good interplay and swift passing by their backs seeing winger Abhainn Savage get over in the corner.

Ballina came back strongly with some excellent play stretching the Sligo cover and getting in for a well worked try just before half time.

After the break the visitors came back strongly and closed on Sligo with another good try narrowing the score board to 12 – 10.

A well organised Sligo were soon back in control with structured play and rampaging runs by their forwards leading to another good try when Issac Marsden made the line.

The local boys continued to apply the pressure and soon got the ball wide to release pacey Savage again for an impressive run down the right and finished under the posts. Again, Mark Tempany was on target for the conversion.

Ballina fought back well and pinned Sligo in their half with some good tactical kicking and open play stretching the Sligo defence. This yielded a fine try in the closing minutes however as the whistle blew it was Sligo’s day with the scoreboard showing a 24 – 12 victory for the home team.

Sligo meet Buccaneers RFC, Athlone in the final to be played in The Sports Ground in Galway on Apri 14th.

This entry was posted in Club Calendar, Events, Fixtures, Fundraiser, News and tagged Race, Running on April 2, 2019 by SligoRugbyNews.

The Coney Island Challenge will take place on Sunday 13th October this year and will be run by Sligo RFC. Registration for the 10 mile and 10 km runs, as well as the 10 km walk will be opening soon.

This entry was posted in Fixtures, Senior and tagged AIL, Dungannon on April 2, 2019 by SligoRugbyNews.

The Sligo All-Ireland League Division 2B team currently lie in 4th place in the league, 6 points behind Rainey Old Boys and 7 points ahead of Wanderers in 5th. The team travel to 8th placed Dungannon RFC on Saturday 6th April and are hoping for a repeat of their 33-25 win from last October. Sligo need one final win to confirm their 4th place playoff spot and challenge for promotion to Division 2A.

This entry was posted in Fixtures, Schools and tagged Summerhill on April 2, 2019 by SligoRugbyNews.

Best of luck to the Summerhill College U14 team who will play the Connacht League Final against Marist College, Athlone at 12.00 this Wednesday, 3rd April 12 in Tuam RFC.

This entry was posted in Fundraiser, News and tagged Auction on April 2, 2019 by SligoRugbyNews.

Efforts continue within the club to raise the much-needed funds for the development of the clubhouse. The Club Auction will take place on 28th April in the Glasshouse. Anyone with items to be donated to the auction, should contact any club committee member.

This entry was posted in Match Reports, Photos, Senior and tagged Carrick, The Seagulls on April 2, 2019 by SligoRugbyNews.

Sligo Gulls 10 – Carrick-on-Shannon 23

Hamilton Park played host to the quarter-final of the Ard na Cregg Cup last Saturday afternoon, when the Sligo Gulls, the third senior team in Sligo RFC took on J2 League Winners Carrick-on-Shannon. The visitors were the hot favourites to win through to the semi-final and Sligo’s odds had lengthened even more with the news that several influential players were unavailable for selection due to absence and injury.
Gulls – Gary Golden shares a laugh with his opposite number at the bottom of a ruck
The home side took the lead after 10minutes, when fullback Eoin Mc Cormack slotted home a well-struck penalty. Carrick piled on the pressure and responded with an equalising penalty 3minutes later. The Gulls’ defence continued to be tested and strong running from the visitors resulted in two tries and a conversion to bring the score to 3-15 at half-time.

The Gulls came out fighting in the second half and gave a great display of solid rugby, with the pack securing possession and setting up the backline for some determined running. Carrick found themselves on the backfoot for the opening 20minutes and the pressure led to a succession of penalties. Sligo opted to run the ball each time, exerting even more pressure on the visitors and a yellow card was eventually issued for persistent offences. The vocal home crowd did their best to get their team over the line, but a solid Carrick defence refused to crack, and some impressive clearance kicks finally relieved the pressure and brought the play into the Sligo 22. The home side were caught offside and Carrick added another 3points from a penalty in front of posts.

The Gulls were dominant from the restart and once again piled on the pressure. Darragh Mc Elhinney controlled the pace of the game, with quick ball from the back of the ruck. Strong ball-carrying from Niall Cawley, Dermot Kiely and Gary Golden tested the Carrick defence and Sligo’s determination and never-say-die attitude was eventually rewarded when Jamie Gerrity crashed over for a well-deserved try, much to the delight of the now-raucous home supporters. Eoin McCormack added the extras to put 8points between the sides, with only 5minutes left on the clock.

Pressure from the restart, resulted in a penalty for Carrick and having been dominant in the lineout throughout the game, they kicked for touch. A strong maul from the big Carrick pack, set up a ruck on the Sligo 5m line and the pack picked the ball and drove over the line for the final score of the game.

This may have been the Gulls’ final game of the season but it marks the start of a new era in senior rugby for Sligo RFC. It has been 35years since the Club last fielded three senior competitive teams. Great credit must go to coaches Podge Johnson and Clive Morris, as well as team manager Declan Lynch. Nearly 30 players were part of the Gulls’ squad this year, a mixture of young players who have come up though the youths’ system, complete novices to the game and many experienced players, with a real love for rugby. Jamie Gerrity finished the season as top try scorer (6 tries) with David Cummins coming in second (4tries). Well done to all involved.
Sligo Gulls: Christophe Perrott, Andreas Probst (c) James Tansey, Michael Healy, Niall Cawley, Jordan Sexton, Peter Walpole, Gary Golden, Mark Harte, Darren Harte, Jean De Rouge, Sean McVeigh, David Cummins, Callum McLoughlin, Eoin McCormack, Andrew Kerr, Dermot Kiely, Thomas McBride, Vincent Reynolds, Podge Johnson

This entry was posted in Fixtures, Senior and tagged AIL, Sundays Well on April 2, 2019 by SligoRugbyNews.

The final home game of the season takes place on Saturday 13th April, when Sligo play Sunday’s Well at 2.30p.m. The club will host a pre-match lunch at 1p.m., open to all members and friends of Sligo RFC. The two-course lunch from The Glasshouse, includes a complimentary glass of wine and entry to the match at the cost of €20 per person. Advance booking is essential, as places are limited. To book your place, text Des on 086 246 9829 before 8pm Wednesday 10th April.

This entry was posted in News, Youth and tagged Connacht Cup, U20 on April 2, 2019 by SligoRugbyNews.

This year, Sligo RFC boast an incredible 21 teams, from U7s in the Juvenile section to Division 2B of the All-Ireland League. This total includes 8 juvenile and 9 youth teams of both boys and girls, three senior teams and now an U20 team, who will compete in this year’s Connacht U20 Cup. The U20 Cup will see teams representing Ballina, Ballinrobe, Connemara, Corinthians, Creggs, Monivea/Westport and Sligo face off in a knockout series of games, with three quarter-finals before two semi-finals and a decider on the Easter weekend. Sligo U20s will play at home against local rivals Ballina in the semi-final at 1p.m. on 7th April.

This entry was posted in News on March 25, 2019 by John.

Sligo RFC 50 – Our Lady’s Boys Club 7

Sligo Development Squad finished their season in fine style with an emphatic victory in the Connacht Junior Plate final at Connacht Rugby headquarters, The Sportsgrounds, in Galway on Sunday. Sligo crossed the whitewash 8 times in an all action display in a match they dominated from start to finish.

Playing towards the College Road end , with the aid of the stiff breeze, Sligo’s Euan Brown kicked off. Sligo forced the early pace and camped inside the boys club 22. Jake Sexton, Christian Nielsen and David Heath all carried powerfully before team captain Garry O’Hehir broke through wide on the right to open his and Sligo’s account.

Two minutes later Sligo struck again, an inch perfect Brown cross kick was fielded by left winger Charlie Cooper who raced in and around and touched down behind the posts. Brown added the extras.

Another two minutes and the Sligo blitz continued when a sweeping left to right move was finished by pacey right winger Robbie Ryan. Sligo were now in full flow, the front row of Craig Adams, James O’Hehir and Ross O’Boyle had the edge at the scrum. David Heath and Michael Mc Morrow brought energy from the second row and flanker Jack Gormely was carrying strongly. Centres Sean Mullin and Mark Gerrity consistently broke the gain line and Donal Brady was a live wire at full back.

With 20 minutes gone Mullin collected the ball on the half way line and burst through the first line of defence. The cover defence looked like halting the powerful centre but Mullin wasn’t for stopping and swatted away three tackle attempts before crashing over the line for Sligo’s fourth of the day. Browns conversion pushed Sligo’s lead to 26 points.

Boys Club responded and picked up a try of their own following some strong carries from their powerful pack but respite was short lived as Brown raced over the line and added the extras to move the halftime score to 33-7.

It was more of the same in the second half for Sligo, replacements Matt Kavanagh, Gary Golden Conor McElligot, Liam McElhinney and Jason East all slotted in seamlessly keeping the pressure on their Galway rivals.

Nielsen picked up Sligo’s 6th before Garry O’Hehir crossed the line twice more to complete his hat-trick and cap a memorable day for Sligo RFC.

Connacht rugby President Mossy Moran paid tribute to both teams before presenting the trophy to O’Hehir who raised it high to the cheers of the Sligo travelling support.

This entry was posted in News and tagged Tickets on October 27, 2017 by SligoRugbyNews.

Guinness Series international tickets now available:
 •  Ireland v South Africa – 11th Nov. 2017
 •  Ireland v Fiji – 18th Nov. 2017
 •  Ireland v Argentina – 25th Nov. 2017

Download the application form here: International Ticket Order Form 2017 (Guinness Series)

Closing date for applications November 3rd, 2017

This entry was posted in Coaching, News, Video, Youth and tagged Coaching, U16, Workshop on October 24, 2017 by SligoRugbyNews.

Connacht Rugby Coach Development Department held a Breakdown Workshop at Sligo RFC for 25 coaches recently.

The workshop was specifically designed for coaches of youth and adult rugby with Coach Development Officer Gavin Foley co-ordinating the event.

The video shows some of the drills our U16s demonstrated on the night. Video courtesy of Aaron Tansey.

More information about the event can be found here.

This entry was posted in Match Reports, Youth and tagged Ballina, Ballinrobe, Castlebar, Loughrea on October 19, 2017 by SligoRugbyNews.

This year the U16s have entered two teams in the Connacht league, one in the ‘A’ League and one in the development league. Sligo lead the ‘A’ league with wins over Castlebar and Ballina while we had mixed fortunes in the Development league.

First up was an away trip against a strong physical Loughrea side, Sligo performed heroically and with three new players and three U15s included in the squad we were narrowly defeated in tough competitive contest.

Next up in development league was a home game against Balinrobe which was played in perfect conditions in strandhill. This was a tough physical challenge with no score for either side by half time.

Sligo dominated the second half and ran out easy winners with a final score of 24 to 5 with stand out performances by Louie Scott, Jamie Reynolds, Stephen Doyle and newcomer Cillian Mcmeekin.

This entry was posted in Match Reports, Senior and tagged 2C, AIL, Game, Omagh on October 7, 2017 by John.

Sligo RFC 52 – Omagh Accies 15

Sligo jumped back to the top of the Ulster Bank League Division 2C with an 8 try to 3 demolition of previous league leaders Omagh Accies at a well attended Hamilton park on Saturday.

Sligo’s all action high tempo game proved too much for an Omagh side that were unbeaten in the league prior to their visit to Strandhill.

On a calm but damp Strandhill afternoon Omagh kicked off towards the Knocknarea end and enjoyed the lions share of the possession for the opening exchanges. Sligo defended stoutly with flanker Diarmuid O’Dowd Hill setting the tone leading the defence with a huge tackle count ensuring that the Sligo line remained intact.

With 10 minutes elapsed Sligo made the first telling blow. A sweeping move from the Sligo half with hooker Shane O’Hehir prominent, brought Sligo into the Omagh 22. Omagh’s scramble defence slowed down the move but powerhouse prop Kuba Wojtkowicz collected and crashed over for the opening score. Jack Keegan converted and Sligo were off and running.

Omagh responded and an excellent break from number 8 James Catterson put scrum half Stewart McCain into a try scoring position but excellent defensive work from Sligo’s Callum Goddard forced the error just short and the Sligo line remained intact.
Sligo made the most of their let off and switched defence into attack. Mike Wells made a trademark break and excellent hands from the Sligo backline brought play close to the Omagh line. Veteran second row James Wilson sniffed an opportunity and drove forward to touch down at the base of the post for Sligo’s second of the day.

Sligo were now in full flow and with a half an hour gone pinned on another try. Another slick passing movement with an excellent Wells final pass gave Goddard the opportunity to show his attacking prowess and the winger made no mistake in finishing in the corner.

Sligo were now on top in every facet of play. The front row of Conor Mitchell, Shane O’Hehir and Kuba Wojtkowicz were on top at scrum time , O’Dowd Hill and Matthew Cosgrove were on top at line out time and scrum half Ryan Feehily was a constant thorn in the Omagh side.

The all important bonus point try was claimed with 35mins on the clock. A Mark Butler penalty kicked to touch positioned Sligo in the Omagh 22. The Sligo line out secured the ball and drove for the line. The maul was stopped and the ball was recycled. Kuba received and in typical fashion wasn’t going to be stopped as he drove over for Sligo’s fourth five pointer of the day.

Omagh responded and a scrum five yards from the Sligo line gave the excellent Catterson the opportunity to drive over the line for his teams opening score to put the half time score 26-5 in favour of the hosts.

Following the resumption the locals picked up where they left off. Pressure from the kick off resulted in a Sligo lineout close to the half way line. James O’Hehir found his jumper and Sligo trundled forward. The ever alert Feehily spotted a gap and darted left down the blind side. The scrum half still had work to do but brilliantly backed himself to outpace the cover to dot down in the left corner for an excellent and well deserved score.

The visitors proved their mettle and picked up their second try of the day following a scrum close to the Sligo line but the hope of a comeback was short lived as Sligo replacement Manu Parkin negated the Omagh score with Sligo’s 6th of the day.

To their credit Omagh refused to capitulate and picked up a third try with 10 minutes remaining but Sligo again hit back with the excellent Feehily picking up his second of the day before Mike Wells burst through for Sligo’s final try of the day.

Sligo’s win came from an excellent team effort but special mentions must go to Ciaran Cassidy whose physicality was outstanding throughout and Jack Keegan who kicked well throughout.

Sligo now top the table with a two point lead over second placed Bangor RFC. Following a two week break next up in the UBL is a trip to Donnybrook on Saturday October 28th to take on Bective RFC and coach Ross Mannion will be keen to keep the current good form continuing.

This entry was posted in Match Reports, Youth and tagged Ballina-Killaloe, Corinthians, Cork Con, Pat Lawlor, Tournament, Young Munster on October 2, 2017 by SligoRugbyNews.

On Saturday morning Sligo’s U13 had an early start travelling to UL Bohs for the annual Pat Lawler tournament in Limerick. On arriving they found out who their opposition were in the group stages. They were in a group with Cork Con, Garryowen and local Connacht rivals Corinthians. Cork con were up first and whatever cobwebs the Sligo lads might have had were well and truly dusted down once the whistle blew to start the game. To a man they played brilliant with all of the squad getting a run out. They won their 1st match 8 tries to nil.

Garryowen didn’t show or didn’t bring enough teams, so to fill the gap Sligo played another different selection from Cork Con and while it was a stiffer test, they won again on a score line of 5 tries to nil.

Last game in the group was against Corinthians who had also won their previous 2 games. The game would decide the group and the path forward for each team. It proved to be the toughest test of the group stages. Corinthians were well drilled at the breakdown and scored first. The Sligo lads picked up their game to equalise. The game ebbed and flowed. Sligo scored to go 2-1 ahead but Corinthians pegged them back with a score of their own. Sligo finished the stronger and could have edged it but for some brilliant defence by the opposition. The game ended in a draw 2-2. Sligo topped the group based on the number of tries scored so continued to the cup knock out stage.

They were drawn against Ballina/Killaloe, a club where the great Keith Wood and the late and great Anthony Foley first started playing rugby. Straight away the Sligo lads knew that they were playing in a level higher than what they experienced in the group stages. Sligo scored first and then had to soak up pressure towards the end of the 1st half. That pressure ended in the opposition scoring an equalising try deep into time added on!

The second half was a tense affair with both teams having chances. The skill level on both sides was a joy to watch. There was big crowd there supporting the Ballina/Killaloe lads. Sligo’s youngsters ended the game defending their line with the noise from the opposition side deafening. The final whistle blew with the game drawn at 1 apiece. There was tension while both sets of youngsters waited on a decision over the walkie-talkie and then it was announced that Sligo were to go through because they had scored more tries in the tournament.

Up next in the cup Semi were Young Munster, Sligo’s U13 coach’s former club! In the other semi-final Clanwilliam RFC were playing Shannon RFC. There was a lot of support on the side lines for the Young Munster team. The Sligo lads really put it up to them and went into a 2 try to nil lead in the 1st half. We suffered two injuries in quick succession which resulted in 2 players having to leave the field. While the full squad played in all games throughout the day and changes were made throughout all games, this was a blow to the squad. Young Munster finished the 1st half with a try at the death leaving it 2-1 to Sligo at half time. Young Munster played an aggressive game up the middle throughout the 2nd half and this pressure paid off with 2 further tries. While Sligo had a chance at the death to level the game, the Muster covering and tackling was very good. Full time saw the Sligo Lads bowing out of the competition 2-3 to Young Munster. To a man they were all brilliant. There fitness, skill level, fight, determination and overall play was something to be proud of. It was a tired bus of youngsters that headed home after 5 games, scoring 20 tries and conceding only 5. It was a great day out enjoyed by all who played and indeed who were there to support the lads.

This entry was posted in Match Reports, Photos, Youth and tagged Castlebar, Game, Home, U15 on October 2, 2017 by SligoRugbyNews.

Sligo 41 – Castlebar 33

Another must win for the U15s saw them matched with Castlebar. Two late tries from Castlebar who exposed a tired Sligo due to the work rate had shown distorted the score somewhat but this was a great game for both teams.

An unsettled start was followed by quiet confidence led by Captain Ewan Ripon and Pack Leader Leo Layden. This saw Sligo ahead on half time with hard work on the breakdown by Liam Candon and Conor Mullaney. Conal Kennedy and Oisin Diffley need special mention for their work rate and forward drive during this period. Unfortunately Eoin Ryan took an injury at this time and was taken off.

The second half saw replacements Callum Murrin and Roarke McQuaid make their mark in the wing and front row. Scrum half Niall O’Connor made it count with Out half Finn Underwood. Oisin Cregg, Ciaran Dolan and Charlie Kennedy worked hard tackling everything in their way with a concerted effort backed by a team who are coming into their own under Head Coach John Martin with James O’Hehir and Mark Rooney.

Well done ALL – the opposition, referee Mr James Galvin and the hosting committee who organised food and treats post match. Thank you. And last but not least thanks to team photographer John Kennedy.

This entry was posted in Match Reports, Photos, Youth and tagged Away, Ballina, Game, U16 on October 2, 2017 by SligoRugbyNews.

Sligo U16s travelled to Attymass on Saturday last to play Ballina in the Connacht A League. On another glorious day for rugby Ballina began the stronger and dominated the first half leading 8 to 3 going in at half time.

Sligo eventually started to compete in the second half scoring two tries by scrum half Cathal Feely and prop Damian Cullen, both converted by Daire Cregg. Ballina responded with another try but missed the conversion. Sligo’s full back Jim Davies then went over for Sligo’s third try with a well worked sequence of play started with a turnover by winger Louie Scott. The game finished with a well deserved victory for the Sligo boys with a final score of 13 to 22.

Next up for Sligo is a home game against Creggs and an away game against Loughrea in the development league.

This entry was posted in Match Reports, Photos, Senior and tagged Connemara, Game, Home, J2, The Seagulls on October 2, 2017 by SligoRugbyNews.

On a blustery day at Hamilton Park, the Sligo 3XV, Seagulls kicked off their first league game in over 30 years at home against Connemara.

Connemara came down with a strong team including a few former Connacht academy players. Playing against a hard wind in the first half Sligo struggled the conditions and their temperament.

Connemara raced into a 32-7 lead by half time, with a Sean Donnelly try being the Gulls only highlight of the first half. At half time, captain Terrance O’Connor and manager Podge Johnson, spoke honestly and tried to reinstall believe into the Seagulls.

In the second half, the Gulls came out fighting, in more ways than one! They had 2 men sent to the sin-bin and 1 man harshly sent off. This only seemed to reinvigorate the Sligo men. With the clock against them, they chased the game with swashbuckling style, running from every angle on the pitch.

At the full-time whistle, the brave Sligo men got the score back to a respectable 46-33 in Connamera’s favour. Manager Podge Johnson was very positive despite the defeat, saying if the gulls could start a game as they finished it, they would be a force to be reckoned with in the this division. Try scorers on the day were Sean Donnelly, Stuart O’Brien (2), Darren Harte and Jean de Roquefeuil.

This entry was posted in Match Reports, Photos, Senior and tagged 2C, AIL, Away, Bruff, Game, UBL on October 1, 2017 by John.

Bruff RFC 20 – Sligo RFC 20

Sligo’s unbeaten run in the Ulster Bank League division 2c continued with a hard fought draw with Bruff RFC at Kilballyowen Park on Saturday. Sligo now sit in second place in the table a single point behind current leaders Omagh Accies who travel to Strandhill next Saturday.

In calm conditions ideal for open running rugby Sligo kicked off and tried to set camp in Bruff territory. Defences were on top in the early stages with both sides struggling to make the first breakthrough.

It was the locals who opened the scoring with a penalty on 22 mins but Sligo’s Jack Keegan cancelled the advantage with an equalising score 3 minutes later.

Bruff regained the lead on 35 minutes with a touchdown under the Sligo posts following a strong burst through the centre. The successful conversion from outhalf David O’Grady moved the score to 10-3 in favour of the hosts.

Sligo were stung into action and worked their way into the Bruff half. A line out win on the 22 gave Shane O’Hehir the opportunity to dash down the blindside and the Hooker made no mistake finishing off to the right of the posts.

Keegan converted to level the scores going into the interval.

Following the resumption it was Sligo that took the initiative with another Keegan penalty before moving 10 points ahead with an excellent team try.

The move started deep in Sligo territory, the ball travelled left to right with team captain Shane Boyle involved three times before Bruff halted the move five yards short of the try line. Young Sligo prop Kuba Wojtkowicz was picked from the ruck and drove over the line to touch down under the posts. Keegan again converted to bring Sligo’s total to 20.

Bruff responded and picked up their own second try to put three between the teams with twenty minutes remaining and the match was set for a grandstand finish.

Despite their best efforts Sligo failed to add to their tally and their task became more difficult when reduced to 14 with a second yellow card offence with 15 minutes remaining.
Bruff equalised with another penalty with 10 minutes remaining and Sligo had to withstand a nervy final flurry. Good defence in particular from Ryan Feehily, Mike Wells and Mark Rooney kept the line intact and when the referee signalled for full time both sides had to be satisfied with 2 match points.

With Omagh flying high at the summit of the league Sligo will need to be at their best at Hamilton Park next Saturday. The match kicks off at 2.30.

This entry was posted in Match Reports, Youth and tagged Castlebar, Game, Home, U16, Youth on September 27, 2017 by SligoRugbyNews.

Sligo U16s began their season on Sunday last in sunny Strandhill against Castlebar. Sligo were looking forward to the challenge with a strong squad of 26 players. Unfortunately Castlebar arrived with a reduced numbers but it was decided to go ahead with the game.

Castlebar started well breaking through the Sligo defense on a few occasions but failed to capitalize. Sligo eventually began to get in to their rhythm with Jim Davies scoring a superb try which was converted by Daire Cregg. This was followed by another well worked try scored and converted by Cregg.

Castlebar continued to push eventually scoring an excellent try by Patrick Dixon.

The second half started off well for Sligo with man of the match Josh Cronin scoring another try for the home side.
The game finished with a resounding victory for Sligo with a final score of 33 to 15.

Next up for Sligo A side is Creggs at home while the development team are away to Loughrea.

Squad :
Damien Cullen Vega, Callum Wall, Patryk Badowski, Danny Funke, Matthew O’Hara, Jake McNiffe, Cathal Feely, Robert Reynolds, James Davis, Jack Carroll, Josh Cronin, Louis Scott, Jamie Reynolds, Michael Dáire Cregg, Marc O’Hehir, Patrick Dixon, Stephen Doyle, Gavin McGrath, Michael Broaders, Fintan Casey, Finn Young, Ronan Elliott, Cillian McMeekin, Garry Melly

This entry was posted in Match Reports, Senior and tagged Carrick, Game, Home, J2, The Seagulls on September 27, 2017 by SligoRugbyNews.

Sligo 3rd XV wrapped up pre-season in flying fashion with a 62-5 demolition of Carrick-on-Shannon RFC.

The seagulls have now won 3 from 3 in pre-season, scoring an impressive 144 points and are eagerly awaiting the start of the J2 season. This will be the first time in over 30 years that Sligo will have a 3rd XV in league competition.

Try scorers on the day were Stuart O’Brien with 4, Henri Liot de Nortbécourt and Jean de Roquefeuil with 2 each, Sean Donnelly and Mark Harte with 1 apiece. Try scorers took the conversion with Sean Donnelly being the exception, letting the evergreen Jamie Bowes live out a dream of taking a kick. Notable mention to David Cummins, who sportingly helped Carrick when they lost a man through injury to play on with them and scored Carricks try.
Move of the day belonged to a deadly combination of Stuart O’Brien with a quick taking cross-field kick to Mark Harte, who raced home to score a fantastic try on his debut, to rapturous applause from the home support.

Sligo 3rd XV kick off their season at home in Hamilton Park on Sunday 1st October to Connemara RFC.

The Sligo Seagulls (3XV) team-

1. Patrick Saba
2. Vincent Reynolds
3. Christophe Perrett
4. Jordan Sexton
5. Terrance O’Connor
6. Peter Walpole
7. Podge Johnson (c)
8. Sean Donnelly
9. Stuart O’Brien
10. Andrew Blannin
11. Aaron O’Donnell
12. Jamie Bowes
13. Henri Liot de Nortbécourt
14. Brian O’Donnell
15. Jean de Roquefeui

Bench

16. Michael Healy
17. Colin McNulty
18. Eoin McMahon
19. Mark Harte
20. Joe Callaghan
21. Wayne O’Hara
22. David Cummins

This entry was posted in Match Reports, Senior and tagged Game, Home, J1A, Westport on September 27, 2017 by SligoRugbyNews.

Sligo RFC 17 – Westport RFC 10

The Sligo Development Team made it two wins from two to carry their momentum upon returning to the Connacht J1a League.

This was a hard-fought win in tough blustery conditions in Hamilton Park. The first half was a tight affair with Sligo playing into the wind. Sligo took the lead through the robust Garry O’ Hehir. After a series of forays to the Westport line with strong carries from Craig Adams and David Cawley. The ever opportunist O’Hehir made a pacey snipe from the base of the ruck catching the Westport team off guard and dotting down for 5.

In the second half and with a strong wind behind them the Westport Bulls found themselves with a lot more possession and territory and eventually after a strong break up the guts snagged themselves a converted try. Sligo fought back and with impact from the bench in the form of the Strandhill Velociraptor’s Liam Mc Elhinney and Sean Wynne, we began to take a foothold in the game and after some pressure our talismanic Skipper Mat Davey powered over with a real captain’s effort.

Westport tied the scores up with a penalty from the half way line to leave the scores even at 10 each and with 10 to go. Sligo’s fitness shone through in the last quarter and we seemed to find an extra gear when needed. After some great expansive play in tough conditions the winning try was scored by Brian Mullen, who backed himself to outpace his opposite number and then cut inside the last defender to seal the game for Sligo.

Craig Adams, Ross O’Boyle, Aaron Tansey, Micheal Mc Morrow, David Cawley, Mat Davey ©, Simon Coulter, Jake Sexton, Garry O Hehir, Enda Gavin, Brian Mullen, Sean Mullin, Andrew Blannin, Charlie Cooper, Niall Gray. Reserves: Shane Mc Guinness, Liam Mc Elhinney, Sean Wynne, Julian Ripon, Carl Van Rensburg.

This entry was posted in Match Reports, Senior and tagged 2C, AIL, Game, Home, Malahide, UBL on September 27, 2017 by SligoRugbyNews.

Sligo RFC 36 – Malahide RFC 14

Both sides went into this top of the table clash on the back of a win in the first round. There was a large crowd in attendance at Hamilton Park as the visitors brought a large following down from Dublin. In blustery conditions, Sligo kicked into the Knocknarea end and against the wind.

Sligo started off strongly and quickly released their exciting young backline but couldn’t make their pressure count in the first few minutes. Then the inspirational Matthew Cosgrove earned Sligo a penalty following some great work at the breakdown. Sligo opted to go the corner. Sligo took a quick throw on the 5 metre line to the fleet footed Ryan Feehily who was just held up on the line.
Moments later Sligo made their early pressure count following some fantastic work from James O’Hehir, Shane Boyle, Mark Butler ended with the returning Matthew Cosgrove burrowing his way over the line to put Sligo 5 up. Jack Keegan added the extras to put Sligo 7 up.

On 10 minutes, Sligo won a scrum on Malahide ball and what followed was some champagne rugby from the home side-beautiful offloads from the aforementioned Butler, O’Hehir, and prop Conor Mitchell ended in another Sligo scrum following an infringement in the ruck. Another dominant Sligo set piece ended with a penalty in the opposition 22’. Sligo elected to kick to the corner. From the lineout, Sligo claimed their own ball with O’Dowd Hill prominent in the lineout. Scrum half Feehily then moved it out the back line and Keegan provided a lovely assist for left winger Philip Carter to go in untouched for another 5 pointer. Keegan added the extras to extend the Sligo lead to 14 points to nil.

This latest score brought the visitors to life as they started to apply some pressure on the Sligo rearguard. However, Sligo held firm for a number of minutes until the 18th minute when Malahide put together a lovely flowing move for their tricky no.9 Hugo Nolan to run into the corner for a well worked try. Outhalf Conall Keane added the extras to leave the score at 14-7 in Sligo’s favour.

From the kick-off, Sligo claimed a turnover after Malahide had initially caught the kick. However, Sligo couldn’t convert following another flowing move. Malahide then applied some constant pressure on the Sligo defence and were rewarded with a try on 32 minutes for their efforts. Malahide earned a penalty and with the aid of the breeze punted the ball to the Sligo 5 metre line. Malahide moved the ball well from the lineout and following some lovely interplay between Nolan, Keane and centre Daragh Sweeney ended with a beautiful offload to the onrushing 12 Richie Forbes to force his way over the line from a great running line. Keane added the extras to level up matters at 14 apiece.

Then just before the half time whistle Sligo claimed the Malahide kick deep in their own 22. Sligo’s influential Feehily ducked and dived his way through the opposition defence to set up another attack. He then released the ball to the onrushing Butler who then set centre Michael Wells away, he in turn found Mark Rooney who then timed his pass well to set pacey winger Calum Goddard in for a try and put Sligo back into the lead. Sligo failed to add the extras and left the half time score at 19-14 in Sligo’s favour.

HT: Sligo 19-14 Malahide

At the resumption of play, Sligo brought on young hooker Shane O’Hehir for his brother James O’Hehir, Matt Davey for Manu Parkin and Kuba Wojtkowicz for Conor Mitchell. This brought renewed energy into the Sligo forwards. Sligo started the second half as the finished the first-on the attack and made their pressure pay on 48 minutes when the powerhouse no.8 Matthew Cosgrove went over for his second try following a lovely break and nimble footwork from the inspirational Wells. Keegan duly converted the conversion as Sligo now led 26-14 to put some breathing space between the teams as well as the all important bonus point.

The game then went from end to end as both sides went in pursuit of the crucial score in a critical stage of the game. The crucial score duly arrived and fortunately it was the Yeats men who got it. Sligo replacement prop Kuba showed his potential with a lightning break inside the Malahide 22 and provided the crucial pass for centre Rooney to grab a fifth try for the Sligo men and in under the posts. Keegan again added the extras to put Sligo 33-14 ahead.

One Aussie onlooker described this 5 pointer or “meatie” as “Woweee”. The game started to ebb and flow after that in what was a pulsating encounter. Fortunately, Sligo were the ones who took the initiative and claimed the final score of the half through the boot of the flawless Keegan.

The referee blew the full time whistle and Sligo have now secured top spot in the table with 9 points out of a possible ten. Sligo maintain their stunning form from last season and are continuing their exciting brand of rugby. The full time score was Sligo 36-14 Malahide.

Sligo team: Backs: Jack Keegan, Calum Goddard, Mark Rooney, Mike Wells, Philip Carter, Mark Butler, Ryan Feehily, Forwards: Matthew Cosgrove, Diarmuid O’Dowd Hill, Manu Parkin, Shane Boyle, Ciaran Cassidy, Conor Mitchell, Niall Gray, James O’Hehir, Mark Keegan Replacements: Shane O’Hehir,Kuba Wojtkowicz, James Wilson, Matthew Davey, Niall Gray.

This entry was posted in Events, News, Senior and tagged 2C, AIL, Away, Bruff, Craic, Game, The Magic Bus on September 27, 2017 by John.

The supporters bus travelling to Bruff RFC on Saturday will leave from the Quay Street Car park (Harp Tavern) at 9am sharp. To book your place contact Michael at 0868198540