Gorey kicked off the defence of their South East League title with a convincing 47–7 win away to AR Vikings on Saturday.

Despite missing many of their more experienced players, Gorey started quickly and were soon rewarded when Joey outpaced the defence to get over in the corner for the opening try. 0–5.

Gorey didn’t have to wait long for try number two. Charlie and Hugh both made good ground before Emmet released Fiachra, who had too much power for the Vikings defence and touched down under the posts. Fiachra added the conversion. 0–12.

Gorey kept coming and were rewarded with a third try shortly afterwards. Good work from skipper William allowed Emmet to release Joey, who again showed great pace to race in under the posts. Fiachra converted. 0–19.

Try number four quickly followed. Another big carry from William set the platform for Gorey to move the ball wide. After a strong run from Aaron, Brian found Emmet with quick ball and he popped it to Fiachra, running a great supporting line off his shoulder, who powered over for his second try of the game. Fiachra again added the conversion. 0–26.

There was still time for Gorey to add another before the break. Following good work from the pack, Charlie got over for the try, with Fiachra once again adding the extras.

Half-time: AR Vikings 0–33 Gorey.

Gorey started the second half just as they had finished the first. Charlie collected a pass from William, raced through a gap and scored beside the posts. Fiachra converted to stretch the lead to 0–40.

The next try came from some excellent work by William. A powerful carry saw him beat three or four defenders and, with the line at his mercy, he unselfishly passed to Hugh to finish the move. Fiachra continued his excellent form from the tee with another conversion. 0–47.

To their credit, AR Vikings kept going and, after a spell of sustained pressure, crossed for a well-deserved converted try to leave the final score 7–47.

A big shout-out must go to the lads who stepped into the team and fitted in effortlessly in the absence of some of their more experienced teammates. Tristan was superb at full-back, carrying the ball confidently throughout, while Brian worked tirelessly at scrum-half. Jamie and Hugh also impressed in the forwards despite playing in unfamiliar positions.

Thank you to the AR Vikings for a spirited game & the food, our hosts Rathdrum RFC, the Referee and all the parents and supporters who made the trip.

A very positive start to Gorey’s South East League title defence and, in particular, an encouraging performance from the less experienced members of the squad.