Friday 28th Gorey U13's welcomed Carlow for the semifinal of the Southeast league.

For what is likely our last home game of the season we had a lovely dry evening under lights on the main pitch kindly facilitated by the seniors moving their training session.

The game started at high intensity with big carries and hits from both teams the 1st 7 mins played mostly in the Carlow 22, but the visitors defence held strong in the face of great Gorey pressure and a couple of nice kicks in behind, getting them close. 

The next 10 or so minutes was played in the middle of the park with no change given by either side.

Around 18 minutes in, a Gorey penalty was taken quickly, followed by a number of "up the jumper pick and jams" by the pack making ground and presenting good ball to the backs. Alex recognised the space made a clever switch play and passed to release Andrew for the try, the conversion off target.

More of the same followed until halftime...Gorey ahead 5 - 0

The 2nd half started as the 1st with both teams giving it their all. On 8 mins a Gorey scrum near half way led to a statement making and team lifting monster carry from Eoin Wafer, more pick and go forward work fittingly finished off with a great try from Eoin.  Again, the conversion just too difficult. 

Gorey visibly had their tails up but a few uncharacteristic handling errors kept things quiet until a lovely Alex cross field kick was claimed by Conn, whose speed and step made great ground into the 22, Ronan hovered up the ruck ball and charged over the line to score.  Harry nailing the conversion with about 10 mins to go. 

The game continued at the same pace and deep into injury time Carlow's effort was rewarded with a nice cross field kick ending in a try.  The passion and pride of the team was very evident by Gorey's visible disappointment at not managing to keep a clean sheet, despite the job being done.

Full-time, Gorey win 17- 5 and earn a place in the final against Tullow.

A few squad rotations again tonight show the boys improvement and the importance of the entire squad and the depth being built, creating many real selection headaches for the coaches.

Special mention to name a few ,

Finn and Thomas were a menace all over the park.

Eoin, Paddy and Andrew with big hits and carries.

Alex identifying space and opportunity.

Finally, Conn really brought his tackling and his hands tonight earning him Man of the match.

Up next we're back on the road to face Newbridge in the league final in Portlaoise