Saturday 15th February. 

After Gorey's pitches were declared unplayable early this morning , Waterpark graciously agreed to host the friendly, and gave us a proper rugby welcome and a proper tough game.

Gorey seemed to start slowly and the lack of focus manifested in our tackling and defence letting us down in the 1st few minutes seeing us go down 14-0.

Throughout the game, we struggled to identify and deal with their couple of strong ball players.  Andrew put in a great effort but had to withdraw early due to illness.

As the 1st half progressed the boys grew into the match and just before half time some nice work and hands from Jamie and Hugh set up a big run from Thomas to score converted by Oisin.

Halftime score 14_7

With some changes and halftime inspiration from the coaches, the 2nd half was much improved from Gorey's perspective, playing with more intensity and improved effort. 

Some great play including some effective kicks from rucks and out of hand, and lovely offloads led to a well taken try by Paddy, the conversion proving to be just out of range. 14-12.

A decisive and powerful carry from Thomas created the opportunity for a clever kick over into space by Oisin tapped down by Harry, converted by Oisin.

19 -14 Gorey

On the last play of the game, a defensive lapse saw Waterparks impressive 13 get over a lot of ground to score a well taken try.

Dramatically with the score tied Waterpark missed the conversion but the referee declaring that Gorey charged early and un-sportingly, awarded a retake which was successful...an important lesson learned

Final score 21- 19.

A great performance overall apart from the first few mins and perhaps a few valuable lessons learnt about needing to play well from the start until the final whistle and adjusting your game to the conditions.  We will have learned more from today's tight loss than any win we have had to date.

We have come to expect good performances from the regular backbone of the team, and unfortunately for them,  they need extra special efforts to be mentioned.

For special mention this week Darragh, Thomas and Adria, with man of the match this week being shared by Finn and Ryan H who were both immense in both attack and defence.

Next week a big game against a strong Athy team.