On Thursday night, the Gorey U13s played a challenge match under the lights in Arklow.. This gave some of the newer recruits and those with less game time a chance to shine and create selection headaches for the coaches.

The game began with a slightly shaky start for Gorey, as players adjusted to unfamiliar positions. Arklow capitalized on this, scoring two tries in the first 15 minutes with their strong runners. However, the lads settled in, and a well-taken try by Jack Curley, converted by Oisin, made the score more respectable by halftime.

Arklow came out strong in the second half, scoring two quick tries. Despite this, the boys kept working hard, and with some substitutions, the last 10 minutes saw Gorey score three tries (two by Andrew and one by Hugh) to Arklow’s one. The final score was Arklow 35, Gorey 24.

A big thanks to Arklow for facilitating the game and their hospitality. While the score wasn’t in our favor, it was a great night for getting the lads some game time and a chance to develop their skills.

Special mentions go to Man of the Match, Thomas Rothwell, who, along with Ryan and Conn, was everywhere on the field. Kudos to Andrew and Hugh for their well-taken tries, Charlie Devereux for a massive try-saving tackle, and Heath and Adria for taking on the giant. Well done, boys!