Friday night Gorey travelled to Tullow to play on the astro in the Premier Leinster League playoffs, earlier rain eased off and it was a nice cool evening for rugby.

Two of the top sides in the competition did not disappoint with a thrilling tough game right from the start.

The game started at a blistering pace on both sides with big hits, carries and great scrums, with Gorey making good use of the wind by Oisin.

After about 13 mins Gorey's strong scrum was rewarded with a penalty, taken quickly by Sam to crash over for the try, converted by Oisin.

The battle continued with big battles throughout the pitch, Gorey doing well to identify and close down Tullow's threats.  Just on half time Gorey's relentless pressure resulted in a close-range penalty move opportunity, with Andrew getting very close but great rucking and a nice pick and go got Thomas across the line. Oisin making a wonderful long-range conversion.

Halftime 14-0.

A few minutes into the 2nd half, a Gorey knock on and some great running from Tullow ended in a good individual try for their centre, with the extras added...14-7...we had a real game on our hands.

 

The intensity continued ,another big carry from Andrew, a great run and step from Conn, more fast rucking and Sam was on hand to pick and drive over for his 2nd, the conversion just off target.

Shortly after Conn claimed a ball deep in our half and his blistering pace got him all the way to the try line just losing control of the ball in contact.

An Eoin pick from the scrum, good clean ruck ball gave the backs the chance to pull off a training park move, a perfect kick in behind by Alex gathered by Jack Robins who put in a lovely grubber, rounded the defender and scored a great try, as was evident by the roars from the sideline. The kick just out of Oisin's range.

The final 10 mins saw the big battles and effort continue ,Tullow rewarded with a well taken try and conversion at the end.

Final score Gorey 24 - 14

It was a great game played truly in the spirit of rugby with respect and effort to the fore on both sides.  Pleasingly, for the coaches, the effort, determination and decision making from the whole team was impressive, with each sub making a positive impact when they came on.

This made it impossible for us to pick a man of the match this week, nobody standing out, as they all played so well, 1 team no individuals.

On to next big challenge, at Gorey HQ on Sunday against Newbridge in a top of the table decider.