Mallow played host to Abbeyfeale in the Munster Junior League on Sunday last. Hoping to build on their recent good form, the home side had a tough challenge, not only with their strong opponents but also the weather conditions. Gale force winds & heavy rain were prominent throughout most of this clash and running rugby wasn't on the cards as a result.
The north Cork side began on the front foot, playing up the hill but with the wind at their back. In the opening 5 minutes, they threatened Abbeyfeale's line on numerous occasions, with Conor O'Donovan almost crashing over on his long-awaited return from injury, thanks to an excellent set-piece move. Shortly afterwards, Sean Glynn smashed through only to be stopped just short, before a last-ditch tackle denied the powerful carry of Michael O'Callaghan. Mallow dominated the opening quarter in all but the scoreboard. Eventually, thanks to a penalty, they put points on the board, through the boot of Jimmy Glynn. Abbeyfeale defended well and to their credit, held out until the stroke of half time when a long-range Mallow penalty put the home side into a 6-0 lead.
Playing into the elements, Mallow had it all to do in the second half. Abbeyfeale put the home side under pressure but time and again, Mallow had the answers. Solid defence from Mallow's back row unit of Hannon, Glynn and O'Callaghan as well as centres James Hall and David Walsh meant the visitors were making no inroads in attack. Kevin Crowley was superb on the wing fielding everything that came his way and returning with interest throughout the second half. The bench made a significant impact for Mallow as Tom Connaughton powered over only to be held up over the line. Sean Glynn carried well off the back of scrums, gaining important metres for the home side while Darren O'Riordan and Mike O'Flynn pulled the strings and dictated play expertly. The home side held onto their 6-0 lead thanks to an excellent defensive effort and kept the visitors scoreless until the final whistle.
An important 4 points for Mallow and a step closer to retaining their Division 1 status. While not an attractive game to watch with few highlights, nonetheless, Mallow RFC, as always, appreciates the strong support who came out in the miserable conditions.
Matchday Sponsor: Chestnut Garden Care

Next J1 Fixture: Sunday Feb 20th 2.30pm, v Clanwilliam RFC in Musgrave Park