J5 XV — Season 2016/17

J5 XV v Emerald Warriors (H) 01.10.2016

St. Marys J5s v Emerald Warriors:

The J5s came into their home opener of the season looking to banish the memories of an away defeat on the opening day of the season while Emerald Warriors also looked to put a season opening loss behind them.

Having failed to score in their opening match of the season, Marys looked determined from the off to show that the season opener was nothing more than a minor blip, scoring early and often in the first half. Tries from Eric Dunne, James Collery and Andrew Manning opened up a healthy lead for the boys in blue after 10 minutes. The J5s controlled the game from this point on after the blistering start, out half Cal Grey leading from the front both in attack and defence. As the half progressed, Marys rarely found themselves out of their depth against a young and inexperienced Emerald Warriors side. A penalty proved to be the only reward for the Warriors possession in the first half.

A score of 25-3 at the break set Marys on the road to victory and as the second half began the boys in blue showed no sign of relenting. Pack leader Padraig Fox and lock James Casey carried strong and back row James Hynes competed strongly at the breakdown, all of which contributed to a plethora of tries from J5 captain Gary Masterson, Chris Kane and seconds for Eric Dunne and James Collery put the win beyond all doubt. Never to know when they are beaten, Emerald Warriors continued to pressure when they had possession and were rewarded for their efforts with their first try of the season.

A final score of 47-10 gave the J5s the home opener they wanted and puts them right back in the hunt for division 11 glory. Next for the J5s is a trip to Clontarf where they will look to stake a claim to this year’s league title.

Posted on the club website by Maurice

J5 XV v Monkstown (H) 18.11.2016

On Friday night, the J5s travelled to Sydney Parade to play Monkstown RFC in the Metro Section 11 league game.

It was a very cold night with a strong polar wind blowing. We were down a man before kick off when our centre Colin O’Neill cried off that day with a sore knee. Our J5s are very resourceful bunch and they managed to start with 15 and had 4 subs which were to be used very quickly. Our captain for the game was Padraig Fox who stood in and up to the call when our Captain fantastic Gary Masterson had to miss the game due to work commitments.

The game started with the St Mary’s pack rucking well up the pitch, this led to our first try by Taylor Berliant who drove for the line carrying two Monkstown men on his back. Unfortunately, the conversion blew to the left from Cal Gray’s boot who was having a perfect kicking game out of the hand putting Monkstown back on every occasion. Score now 5-0 to us. After the restart, we again drove up the pitch, with great driving from No 8 Chris Kane and rucking from the pack, especially our two second rows Perkins and Foxy. We received a penalty just outside their 22. Cal Gray again stood up to take the kick.

This time the direction was right but the ball fell short of the posts. Eric Dunne had followed the kick and recovered possession for us, his pass to Barry Norman was intercepted and they ran the length of the pitch, a sure try only to be tacked by our glorious fast fullback Andreas from Chile. After that ruck they spread the ball and scored under the posts, conversion slotted 7-5 to them. We then gathered the ball after the restart and drove up the pitch, ruck after ruck, we drove, cleared out, Rhino left, Rhino right, then Charlie and Andrew Perkins was pushed over the line, try and conversion score now 12-7.

This all happened in the first 20 minutes, then Cal Gray our outhalf who was having a super game, hyper extended his elbow in an awkward tackle. Christian our other Chilean came on as replacement. Seconds later our wing forward Bfoot (James Hynes) felt the slap of a boot at a ruck, and had to leave the pitch with claret pouring from the wound. The medical bag was well emptied, Vinnie Murray and Flats were like St Johns Ambulance men putting on slings, and paper stitches. Then the casualty ward began to fill, Donagh Ryan calf strain, Taylor AC, Perkins neck, Barry ear, all our subs were on.

The second half started with Christian given the clear instruction to kick the ball down to their 22. It was lost in translation as he ran everything he got.

Monkstown were now throwing everything at us. They had brought on a giant of a man at half time, he looked like a bigger version of Keith Gavaghan.

Fagan was propping against him and was winning the battle even having time to smile to the bench as he tried to screw his man. They started to play our game driving up the middle, trying to give their giant the ball. and when he did get the ball he was tackled low by flanker Dan Hegarty, as thought, in school and the giant fell like a freshly cut oak tree. The ref called last play, and we found out why Christian had not kicked, as his kick to touch to end the game went up like a Garryowen, backwards and just reached the sideline. The final whistle blew, relief.

We battled hard, tackled everything and came away with the win.

Stephen Teggart the coach was delighted with the heart shown, and never give up attitude from the lads.

They must do it all again in two weeks time as they host Monkstown in Templeville.

Posted on the club website by Maurice

J5 XV v Stillorgan (H) 26.11.2016

Match Report – Saturday 26/11/16

St Mary’s College 8 – 10 Stillorgan RFC

On Saturday afternoon St Mary’s J5 welcomed behemoths Stillorgan RFC to Templeville Road. The build-up the game was fraught with uncertainty as the J4 were playing at the same time and numbers were low. Colin Burkley channelled his inner gangland boss and spent the week giving amnesty to all for past transgressions. This led to the return of several players, many of whom hadn’t graced a rugby pitch in years and others who hadn’t touched a ball since their names were named and shamed after training like a low rent Stubbs Gazette.

The game itself was delayed due to a mix-up on the part of the J4 referee who claimed he thought the game was on Sunday. For legal reasons we can’t speculate that he was hungover and not arsed. This meant that the j5 referee moved across to the other pitch and a new ref had to be found at short notice. Luckily the Marys coaching team had just the man for the job and Mick Flats ran home to get his referee outfit and whistle.

Mary’s kicked off to Stillorgan and began the game at a very high tempo. Coach Stephen ‘Smudge’ Taggart appeared worried by the high tempo and was urging players to conserve energy after a mere 5 minutes of play. Both teams were evenly matched in open play but Mary’s did seem to have a slight advantage with Stillorgan camped in their own half. The Mary’s lineout did malfunction at first with the pack seemingly unfamiliar with the calls, a first for many of them. The entire pack seemed hungry for work with every player taking the ball on and making yards. Gary Masterson started the ball rolling with a trademark diagonal run which made a metre before David Dixon carried into contact fully upright for another metre gain. Dixon followed up his run by starting an argument with the opposition Number 8 which threatened to turn into a brawl, Dixon refusing to back down and the referee looking suspiciously like a man who forgot his cards.

The Mary’s backline looked sharp with new outhalf Luke Maher pulling the strings and some sensuous interplay from the centre pairing despite the captain explicitly stating that the backs “keep the fancy shit for tipper”. Number 8 Tony Flynn made yards when the opposition left the ruck unguarded and he powered through aided by James Collery. Unfortunately nothing came of the opportunity and the next time Flynn got his hands on the ball was to knock it on from the back of an uncontested scrum before falling over, the excitement obviously getting the better of him. A temporary reshuffle just prior to halftime saw Steve Walkin come on in the front row and Andrew Fitzpatrick, just out of retirement, come on at centre. Shortly afterwards Stillorgan went under the posts and converted to make it 7-0.

Minutes later Mary’s found themselves with a penalty in front of the posts which Luke Maher converted with ease. 7-3 going into the break.

The second half started with Mary’s cleanly taking the kick off before being immediately turned over. Once again the support players underestimating how fast James Casey is with ball in hand. Despite this the Mary’s defence held firm, winning a free kick from which Gary Masterson ran the width of the pitch before sneaking over the line to score. A missed conversion left it 7-8 to Mary’s.

With Stillorgan looking tired Mary’s could smell the win and threw caution to the wind, immediately giving away a penalty for offside play leaving the score at 10-8 to Stillorgan. Mary’s made a number of substitutions in the second half which saw hooker Ryan Barnes move into outhalf to replace the injured Luke Maher and Andrew Doran come on for his first appearance since retiring with a severe case of indolence earlier this season. Mary’s spent the remainder of the half camped inside the Stillorgan 22, battering the opposition defence with little or no success. However, as the game wore on and bodies began to tire Stillorgan resorted to illegality to maintain their lead. After Stillorgan failed to release in front of their own posts the referee searched his pockets frantically for anything yellow but came up empty. Deputising outhalf Barnes stepped up for the difficult kick but couldn’t convert due to the angle. Play continued with Mary’s J5’s doing their best Jehovah’s Witness impression, knocking on every door with no success.

Stillorgan, emboldened by the referee’s inability to send anyone to the bin forgot that he could still give penalties and went offside directly in front of their posts. The penalty was given and the last play was called. Frantic attempts were made to bring the injured outhalf back on for the kick but Stilloran were vocal in their protests and threatened to protest to the branch if he was allowed back on for the kick. Outhalf Barnes stepped up again despite the difficult angle and took the kick which just missed the target and went out for a lineout. No time for another play.

Final score Mary’s 8 –10 Stillorgan

Posted on the club website by Maurice

J5 XV v Emerald Warriors (H) 09.12.2016

On Friday night our J5s played the Emerald Warriors in the last Metro Division 11 league game of the year. This match was an away fixture, but was played in Templeville the new home of the Emerald Warriors.

The back pitch was to be used as the first pitch had a Metro 2 fixture. There was no home advantage as both teams train there and have also played against each other throughout training sessions.

We welcomed back our captain Gary Masterson, and our recently retired prop Keith Gavaghan. Our line outs hadn’t gone well in the previous games but with these two lifters, and Steve Walkin returning at hooker, that all changed.

Before the game our coaches Mick Flats and Smudge, concentrated on the lineout and low and behold we had a 100% record during the match.

We started off with a high tempo, within minutes we nearly had our first try with a superb cross kick from out half Cal Grey to the corner only for our winger Mattie Ryan to miss the bounce by his finger tips and the ball found touch. We kept play there until our 2nd row David Dixon drove over the line for his first try of the evening, con by Cal 7-0 to us.

After the restart collected by Foxy we attacked again, the ball was moved to our ever impressive centre Eric Dunne who sprinted 20 yards to cross the line for our 2nd, con missed 12-0 to us.

Then man of the match David Dixon caught the kick off to great cheers from the sideline and again we swarmed towards their line, captain fantastic Gary Masterson did not crab his way to the line but ran straight at impressive speed, fending off two would be tacklers to secure our third try, con missed 17-0 to us. Our line outs were superb, with flanker Andrew Perkins dominating , he stole their ball and after great back play we rucked and drove to get Swoop Dixon over for his second. Con missed 22-0 to us. Half time.

It was great to see so many of the J4s there to support their club mates, and they were treated to a great display of rugby.

We had our newest member of the squad Billy Shanahan playing his first full game and he was well supported. It was a pity his fellow Kerry men Mike & Feargal could not have played also, but they will get there chance in the new year.

The second half began with the Emerald Warriors now beginning to get a foothold in the Mary’s Half, they eventually broke through our defenders to score. 22-7 to us, then Foxy was yellow carded for not rolling away after the tackle. The reason being he was temporally paralysed, by a stinger on the shoulder, but once the initial shock wore off he never felt as good. The bang had straightened him and he was a new man after that.

We were down to 14 men and the Warriors began to play rugby and scored 22-14 to us, game on. They had their heads up and would have scored again, if it wasn’t for the brace of brave tackles from our Italian winger Alessandro. When Foxy returned normal service returned. Cal Grey kicked a penalty to the corner. Short lineout. Training ground move called, excellent handling and Donnagh Ryan gave and pass to hooker Walkin who dived for the corner for a glorious try. 27-14 to us.

All the bench was on and biting at the bit to score. One more score was to be had and it fell to the brick house Dixon, to drive over for his hat trick. Final score 32-14.

A very enjoyable game to watch if you were a neutral. The Warriors are called that because the kept playing to the end and never gave up. They gave their large group of supporters something to cheer about as they improve every game. The also had their Christmas drinks party in the club house afterwards and invited us to join them for some curry. Total gentlemen and an honour to have them in our club.

Posted on the club website by Maurice

J5 XV v Clontarf (H) 18.02.2017

You always start the morning of a game feeling nervous but when it’s a must win game you can’t stand still and you know your team mates feel the same when everyone is up surprisingly early.

We line up ready to receive, the ref blows his whistle game underway, As always this season we get off to a sluggish start giving away an early penalty right in front of the posts Clontarf 3 up, we are slow to support in the rucks getting turned over .Clontarf come at us again making their way back towards our touch line. Another penalty right in front of the posts Clontarf 6 -0 up and getting the feeling it was going to be a long day.

We kicked off and Clontarf come at us again building up a head of steam our forwards lead by are talismanic props Keith & James making hard tackles, Clontarf get a yellow at our 10 meter line some breathing space. We make our way back towards the Clontarf half our number 9 Ryan Barnes steering us all the way Rhino, Charlie keeping it amongst the forwards to make good ground, Then you hear our 10 Cal Gray shouting out at the top of his lungs obviously had enough of the forwards having the ball , He gets the ball and with a hop skip and a jump he is gone weaving his way past several Clontarf players making his way over the try line with a great individual Try and then converting the conversion that followed 7-6 to the boys in blue.

With it getting closer to half time we had them under pressure again we pushed our way forward with good runs from James Collery and James Casey breaking the gain line we find ourselves inside the 22 metre line, Number 10 Cal Gray gets a sniff of the post and bang drop goal right between the posts 10-6 to Mary’s Clontarf now back to 15 they come at us there number 7 making great runs splitting our defence and they get over for a try 10-13 to Clontarf,

The second half gets underway with the introduction of Saban, Dixon, John Whelan & Barry Norman, We went right at them pushing them back, at their 10 metre line we get a penalty and with a brilliant tap and go from Saban and passed to none other than our very own sponsor Mr fox over for the try and again converted by Cal Gray 17-13 to Mary’s. We find ourselves staying in the Clontarf half another penalty to Mary’s and right between the post by our 10. 22-13 to Mary’s our coaching staff tell us to watch out now Clontarf are about to throw the kitchen sink at us and they did bullied their way back to get a try 22-18 to the star. Finding ourselves under pressure with 15 mins left we absorbed the pressure from Clontarf every player 1-15 putting in the hits disrupting Clontarf not letting them build up any momentum. We turning it over 2 mins to go and slowly work our way back into their half we get a penalty ref says last play, man of the match Cal slots it over like he has done all day surely a call up Ireland squad is pending after that performance.

Posted on the club website by Maurice

J5 XV v Normans (H) 18.03.2017

On Sat 18th of March at home on a wet and windy afternoon, our J5 squad entertained The Kilkenny Norman’s.

This was a rescheduled game that was called off earlier in the month due to waterlogged pitches.

This was a must win game for our J5s as a loss would see them out of the league playoff final.

We were missing our pack leader Padraig Fox due to work commitments, but our second row Andrew Perkins stood up and had a great game. We also welcomed back our captain Gary Masterson who had suffered a poke in the eye at training only a week ago, but was back to 80% vision in his bad eye. He could see colours and that’s all that mattered as he tore in to the black jerseys.

The Normans had a huge physical pack, and it was going to take a full 60 minutes before they tired. Our defence was superb with both centres Billy Shanahan & John Whelan putting in hard tackles. We played against the wind in the first half and managed to get the first try. We won the lineout and the drove towards their line with big carries from James Casey and James Collery. We were camped on their line, our Hooker Stephen Walkin picked and drove and got the ball over the line. Try. Converted by our out half Cal Gray. 7- 0 to the star. They kicked deep into our half with a strong wind at their backs. The ball was heading for the try line. Our winger Andrew Fitzpatrick kicked the ball clear over the dead ball line. The referee saw it differently and gave the Normans a 5 meter scrum. We were brave in defence and kept them out but we conceded a penalty. Score 7-3. Half time.

We were delighted to be in front with such a strong breeze, and started the second half kicking the ball deep into the corners. our second try came from a scrum. Our number 8 Gary Masterson picked and crabbed his way towards the posts. He was hit hard but we managed to get the ball to our centre John Whelan who put the ball down beside the posts. Another conversion from Cal now 14-3 to the star. We kept them in their half and they went off side. Penalty, up stands Cal and kicks it straight between the posts. 17-3.

A few changes are made by coach Smudge, on came Kurt McNab at scrum half, and our hard man David Dixon.

McNab was only on a few minutes when he broke from the back of the scrum, accelerating past the would be tackles and touching down in the corner. Conversion missed score now 22-3.

They began then to throw everything at us. Picking and driving. We were penalised for not rolling away at the tackle and James Hynes was yellow carded. They were now in our 22, but the tackles made by everyone kept them out. Final whistle blows. A great team performance which sets us up perfectly for our final league game v Stillorgan next Weekend. Win that and we are in the Division 11 League Playoff Final.

Well done to everyone involved.

Team.

1. Donagh Ryan,

2. Stephen Walkin,

3. Keith Gavaghan,

4. Andrew Perkins,

5. James Casey,

6. James Hynes,

7. James Collery,

8. Gary Masterson, Captain,

9. Ryan Barnes,

10.Cal Gray,

11.Andrew Fitzpatrick,

12. Billy Shanahan,

13. John Whelan,

14. Alessandro Casserole

15. Dan Hurley,

Subs All used

Tony Flynn, Colm O’Donnell, Barry Norman, James Nolan, Kurt Mc Nab, Paul Bennett, David Dixon, Eric Dunne and Cagular Tuc.

Posted on the club website by Maurice

J5 XV v Stillorgan (A) 25.03.2017

On Super Saturday, our 1st XV beat Trinity, our J2s beat Coolmine, and then our J5s beat Stillorgan.

This was a game not for the faint hearted.

It was a glorious warm sunny afternoon. This was our final league game in Division 11. We knew going into this game that if we won we would have a home playoff final at home. So a lot to play for. It was great to see so many of our J4 players there to support the lads on the day.

We started as always at 100 mph. We were first to score with a splendid break from Cal Gray our out half. He broke through the line at pace, and rolled over the line. Conversion missed. 5-0.

The pitch was out in Rockfield Park, Blackrock. Let’s say the pitch was on a bit of a slant. So for the first half we played with the Sun and against the hill.

Next to score was our man of the match scrum half Ryan Barnes. Today he was everywhere. Ryan is our oldest player, but he is also one of the fittest and today he showed that he will put his body on the line to get the J5s silverware. We were 12-0 up and were only in second gear. Stillorgan upped their game and got in for a score. 12-7. Half time.

Smudge got the troops together. A couple of subs were made. We then began what was an epic second half. We kicked off into their 22. Tackles were put in. Then at a ruck their Hooker broke through the middle and sprinted. He was running up hill and was being chased by our Fullback and winger. It looked like our backs would catch him, but he sprinted to the line to score a classic try. Conversion got score now 14-12. Then after another kick by Barnsey towards their 22, chased by Foxy and Saban. Their full back goes to kick for touch. Foxy blocks down and Saban touches down for a fantastic try. Score now 17-14. Pressure still on we get a penalty converted by Cal , score now 20-14 .10 minutes left , all our subs are on ,we enter their 22 again . Pick and goes, Charlie’s, Rhinos. We throw everything at them. The ball is passed to Foxy, who sprints for the line. He runs through and over a player and touches down. Try, score now 25-14. Stillorgan don’t give up. The drive up the pitch and get a converted try. Score now 25-21 to the star.

Stillorgan are camped on our line. They know if they win they will get into the playoff final. They charge at us. Both Cal and Dixon are replaced after heavy collisions. Ref calls last play. At the next line out they ruck, but the ball is stolen and passed to our Hooker Stephen Walkin who passes the ball into touch. Penalty. They tip and go. Big hits from our guys. Andrew Perkins our most improved player. Bends over the tackle and takes the ball. It is passed to Tony Flynn and he kicks the ball dead. Game over and a home final in the bag. Well done gentlemen and thanks for taking 5 years of my life.

Posted on the club website by Maurice

St. Mary's: 1 Keith Gavaghan, 2 Hugh Lyons, 3 Donagh Ryan, 4 Peter McHugh, 5 David Dixon, 6 James Collery, 7 Tony Flynn, 8 Gary Masterson, 9 Cristian Michelin, 10 Ryan Barnes, 11 Michael Murray, 12 Barry Norman, 13 Naos Connaughton, 14 Paddy O'Meara, 15 Eamon Spillane.

Replacements: 16 Andrew Perkins, 17 Eric Dunne, 18 Richard Fagan, 19 Paul Bennett.

From the club team sheet (eSports Manager).

St. Mary's: 1 Donagh Ryan, 2 James Hynes, 3 Gary Masterson, 4 Padraig Fox, 5 Andrew Perkins, 6 James Casey, 7 James Collery, 8 Mark Byrne, 9 Alessandro Cossuale, 10 Cal Gray, 11 Eric Dunne, 12 Barry Norman, 13 James McHugh, 14 Paul Bennett, 15 Andrew Manning.

Replacements: 16 Aaron Hudson, 17 Tony Flynn, 18 David Dixon, 19 Caglar Tuc.

Scorers. Tries named in the match report: Eric Dunne (2), James Collery (2), Andrew Manning, Gary Masterson, Chris Kane (7 of the 9 tries Leinster records).

From the Leinster team sheet.

St. Mary's: 1 James Nolan, 2 Aaron Hudson, 3 Donagh Ryan, 4 David Dixon, 5 Padraig Fox, 6 Peter McHugh, 7 Gary Masterson, 8 James Casey, 9 Ryan Barnes, 10 Cal Gray, 11 Barry Norman, 12 Michael Murray, 13 Eric Dunne, 14 Daniel Hurley, 15 Andrew Manning.

Replacements: 16 Alessandro Cossuale, 17 Caglar Tuc, 18 Paddy O'Meara, 19 John Whelan, 20 David Balfour.

From the Leinster team sheet.

St. Mary's: 1 James Nolan, 2 Ryan Barnes, 3 Donagh Ryan, 4 Padraig Fox, 5 Andrew Perkins, 6 James Hynes, 7 Gary Masterson, 8 Tony Flynn, 9 Alessandro Cossuale, 10 Cal Gray, 11 Caglar Tuc, 12 James Fitzsimons, 13 Barry Norman, 14 Eric Dunne, 15 Andres Gandulfo.

Replacements: 16 David Dixon, 17 Stephen Teggart, 18 Michael O'Flaherty, 19 Owen Clery.

Scorers. Tries: Andres Gandulfo. Conversions: Cal Gray (season review).

From the Leinster team sheet.

St. Mary's: 1 Christopher Kane, 2 Ryan Barnes, 3 David Browne, 4 Padraig Fox, 5 Andrew Perkins, 6 James Collery, 7 Barry Norman, 8 Gary Masterson, 9 Alessandro Cossuale, 10 Andrew Manning, 11 Eric Dunne, 12 John Whelan, 13 Colin O'Neill, 14 Daniel Hurley, 15 Cal Gray.

Replacements: 16 Caglar Tuc, 17 Paddy O'Meara, 18 Naos Connaughton, 19 James McHugh, 20 Robert Dunleavy.

From the Leinster team sheet.

St. Mary's: 1 Taylor Berliant, 2 Ryan Barnes, 3 Donagh Ryan, 4 Padraig Fox, 5 Andrew Perkins, 6 Daniel Hegarty, 7 James Hynes, 8 Christopher Kane, 9 Alessandro Cossuale, 10 Cal Gray, 11 Eric Dunne, 12 Barry Norman, 13 John Whelan, 14 Daniel Hurley, 15 Andres Gandulfo.

Replacements: 16 Thomas Fanning, 17 James Walsh, 18 Cristian Michelin, 19 Paul Bennett, 20 Richard Fagan.

Scorers. Tries: Taylor Berliant, Andrew Perkins. Conversions: 1 (kicker not named) (match report).

From the Leinster team sheet.

St. Mary's: 1 Gary Masterson, 2 Ryan Barnes, 3 Donagh Ryan, 4 David Dixon, 5 Padraig Fox, 6 James Collery, 7 James Casey, 8 Tony Flynn, 9 Alessandro Cossuale, 10 Luke Maher, 11 Paul Bennett, 12 Barry Norman, 13 John Whelan, 14 Matthew Ryan, 15 Keith McCarthy.

Replacements: 16 Chris Richardson, 17 Michael O'Connor, 18 Fearghal MacNamara, 19 Andrew Perkins, 20 Keith Gavaghan, 21 Andrew Fitzpatrick, 22 Stephen Walkin.

Scorers. Tries: Gary Masterson. Penalties: Luke Maher (match report).

From the Leinster team sheet.

St. Mary's: 1 Donagh Ryan, 2 Ryan Barnes, 3 Aaron Hudson, 4 Padraig Fox, 5 David Dixon, 6 James Hynes, 7 James Collery, 8 James Casey, 9 Alessandro Cossuale, 10 Daniel Hurley, 11 Eric Dunne, 12 John Whelan, 13 Barry Norman, 14 Matthew Ryan, 15 Colin O'Neill.

Replacements: 16 Caglar Tuc, 17 Michael O'Connor, 18 Fearghal MacNamara, 19 Tony Flynn, 20 Billy Shanahan, 21 Thomas Fanning, 22 Michael O'Flaherty, 23 James Nolan.

From the Leinster team sheet.

St. Mary's: 1 Keith Gavaghan, 2 Stephen Walkin, 3 Donagh Ryan, 4 Padraig Fox, 5 David Dixon, 6 Andrew Perkins, 7 James Hynes, 8 Gary Masterson, 9 Ryan Barnes, 10 Cal Gray, 11 Alessandro Cossuale, 12 Eric Dunne, 13 Billy Shanahan, 14 Matthew Ryan, 15 Daniel Hurley.

Replacements: 16 Caglar Tuc, 17 James Collery, 18 Tony Flynn, 19 James McHugh, 20 Barry Norman, 21 James Nolan.

Scorers. Tries named in the match report: David Dixon (3), Eric Dunne, Gary Masterson, Stephen Walkin. Conversions: Cal Gray (report total 32; Leinster 37 with 7 tries).

From the Leinster team sheet.

St. Mary's: 1 James Nolan, 2 Ryan Barnes, 3 Keith Gavaghan, 4 Padraig Fox, 5 David Dixon, 6 Andrew Perkins, 7 James Collery, 8 Gary Masterson, 9 Paddy O'Meara, 10 Cal Gray, 11 Alessandro Cossuale, 12 Billy Shanahan, 13 Colin O'Neill, 14 Eric Dunne, 15 Andrew Manning.

Replacements: 16 Caglar Tuc, 17 James Hynes, 18 Daniel Hurley.

From the Leinster team sheet.

St. Mary's: 1 Keith Gavaghan, 2 Stephen Walkin, 3 Donagh Ryan, 4 Padraig Fox, 5 Andrew Perkins, 6 James Casey, 7 James Collery, 8 Gary Masterson, 9 Ryan Barnes, 10 Cal Gray, 11 Eric Dunne, 12 Billy Shanahan, 13 Andrew Manning, 14 Alessandro Cossuale, 15 Daniel Hurley.

Replacements: 16 James Nolan, 17 John Whelan, 18 Barry Norman, 19 Andrew Fitzpatrick, 20 Caglar Tuc, 21 David Dixon.

Scorers. Per match report: Tries: Cal Gray, Padraig Fox. Conversions: Cal Gray (2). Penalties: Cal Gray (2). Drop goals: Cal Gray (Leinster records 3 tries).

From the Leinster team sheet.

St. Mary's: 1 James Nolan, 2 Stephen Walkin, 3 Donagh Ryan, 4 David Dixon, 5 Padraig Fox, 6 Billy Shanahan, 7 James Collery, 8 James Casey, 9 Denis Daly, 10 Cal Gray, 11 Alessandro Cossuale, 12 Ryan Byrnes, 13 Kurt McNab, 14 Eric Dunne, 15 Daniel Hurley.

Replacements: 16 Keith Gavaghan, 17 Ryan Barnes, 18 Andrew Perkins, 19 Tony Flynn, 20 Barry Norman, 21 Andrew Fitzpatrick, 22 Andrew Manning.

From the club team sheet (eSports Manager); Leinster sheet blank.

St. Mary's: 1 Donagh Ryan, 2 Stephen Walkin, 3 Keith Gavaghan, 4 Andrew Perkins, 5 James Casey, 6 James Hynes, 7 James Collery, 8 Gary Masterson, 9 Ryan Barnes, 10 Cal Gray, 11 Andrew Fitzpatrick, 12 Billy Shanahan, 13 John Whelan, 14 Alessandro Cossuale, 15 Daniel Hurley.

Replacements: 16 Tony Flynn, 17 Colm O'Donnell, 18 Barry Norman, 19 James Nolan, 20 Kurt McNab, 21 Paul Bennett, 22 David Dixon, 23 Eric Dunne, 24 Caglar Tuc.

Scorers. Tries: Stephen Walkin, John Whelan, Kurt McNab. Conversions: Cal Gray (2). Penalties: Cal Gray (match report).

From the Leinster team sheet.

St. Mary's: 1 Donagh Ryan, 2 Stephen Walkin, 3 Keith Gavaghan, 4 Andrew Perkins, 5 James Casey, 6 James Hynes, 7 James Collery, 8 Gary Masterson, 9 Ryan Barnes, 10 Cal Gray, 11 Alessandro Cossuale, 12 Billy Shanahan, 13 John Whelan, 14 Eric Dunne, 15 Daniel Hurley.

Replacements: 16 Kurt McNab, 17 Padraig Fox, 18 Caglar Tuc, 19 David Dixon, 20 Paul Bennett, 21 James Nolan, 22 Barry Norman, 23 Tony Flynn.

Scorers. Tries: Cal Gray, Ryan Barnes, 'Saban', Padraig Fox. Conversions: 1 (kicker not named). Penalties: Cal Gray (match report).

From the Leinster team sheet.

St. Mary's: 1 Donagh Ryan, 2 Stephen Walkin, 3 Keith Gavaghan, 4 Andrew Perkins, 5 Padraig Fox, 6 James Casey, 7 James Collery, 8 Gary Masterson, 9 Ryan Barnes, 10 Cal Gray, 11 Alessandro Cossuale, 12 John Whelan, 13 Billy Shanahan, 14 Eric Dunne, 15 Daniel Hurley.

Replacements: 16 Kurt McNab, 17 Tony Flynn, 18 James Nolan, 19 Barry Norman, 20 Caglar Tuc, 21 David Dixon, 22 Andrew Fitzpatrick, 23 James Hynes.

From the Leinster team sheet.

Source: J4-J5 Review of the Season (2016-17, Mick Flats).

I have been asked to write a short review of the season.

My memories are all good, a great bunch of players, who are still willing to learn new things, and listen, even though they think they know it all.

The management were eager to keep things going after a rewarding season last year. New coaches Owen Clery and Stephen Teggart were appointed, and have been a great asset to the squad with their knowledge and passion.

New management of Colm Kavanagh, Karl Kelly and Vinnie Murray were brought on board, as well as the old guard of Mossy, Colin Burkley and Stephen Boden . New captains in the shape of Michael Daly and Gary Masterson, who had to fill the big boots left by Balf and Binner . We had a dream team doing all the background work so that all the players have to do is turn up and play.

We had a fantastic pre-season trip to Bruges, as well documented. The togetherness formed on that trip will bond the players going forward. Players got to know each other a little better and tours are important for that reason alone.

The highlight for me so far, this season has to be our trip away to the Kilkenny Norman's in a Division 11 league fixture.

We struggled to field a starting 15. Playing away in Knoctopher on a Saturday afternoon didn't appeal to many. It was hinted to the coaches that they bring their boots as we may be short players. We departed from St. Mary's with 15 players, picking coach Clery up in Naas on the way down. We were delighted to have a full team.

Banter was good on the bus and the weather was glorious for a Saturday in November, so the mood was right.

We arrived in Knocktopher, and to most people's amazement there were no dressing rooms.

Our kit man Colm Kavanagh, had no use for his hangers, but did lay out the jerseys in a lovely line beside the ditch. This was OLD SCHOOL, players having to run to the trees to find a suitable WC.

We were thankful that it was sunny, as it could have been a total washout if it had been raining.

The game was played on a very narrow but long pitch. James Walsh appeared out of the carpark. Our fast running, non-passing winger. He was a local lad who had moved to Dublin and popped over to help us out.

After a short warm up, the game started. We launched into their 22. Ryan Barnes manfully stood up and played hooker a position he had played when in was in school. That was a long time ago but he battled hard, he kept playing after firstly receiving a head wound that was bound by our medical men, Karl and Colm. This was time for our coach Smudge to put on the blue jersey and slot in at hooker which he did like a duck to water.

We then scored a delicious try. They tried to clear their lines, not finding touch, our winger James Walsh caught and ran a diagonal line handing off would be tacklers. Our players knew he wouldn't pass and waited for him to be tackled. They then cleared out the ruck, Alessandro passed to Cal Gray, and a skilful pass to our full back Andrés, who ran at serious speed to cut their defence to score under the posts with Cal converting. 7-O to Marys.

Stephen Boden was happy to point out to me that they had two very old looking guys playing in their pack. "Flats they must be 5 years your senior" was quoted being said. I looked, they had a grey-haired prop that did look in his 50s and a balding second row not much younger.

The thoughts of the team needing an extra sub and the chance to play with these super players was enough to persuade me to go and get togged out.

Half time, score was still 7-0 to us. It was a tough game and they put all the pressure on us. Then came my call as our captain Gary Masterson had received an injury. I was on for my first game in years. Once I got my first tackle in, it was like riding a bike. An old rusty bike that needed oiling.

They came at us, kicking to the corner at every opportunity. Then the start of the yellow cards episode. Padraig Nestor was blown for taking down their lineout, yellow card! A terrible call by the ref. I now had my refs hat on and was not happy with the ref’s decisions. We were down to 14 players but still managed to keep them out. Tackles after tackles were made, none were missed.

We cleared for touch and got out of our 22 for a rest bite. We then rucked up the pitch. Smudge was blown for not releasing. He argued with the ref on his decision and out came the second yellow for back chat, we were down to 13 players.

Owen Clery our last coach came on, he didn't want to be the only coach that didn't play. His first play was to run at his brother on the opposite team to offer advice with his fists.

Then the Red mist fell upon me, many players that know me or that have played with me over the years would say that I am an honest player, that was never involved in alternations, I was no Pokey, but after tackling one of their backs, in comes their prop and knees me in the back. He then proceeds to fall over the ruck. I swing a dig to the grey-haired props jaw and ask what the deck does he think he is doing. The ref blows the whistle. I know I'm going because of the punch, but I ask the ref did he see the knee in the back, to which he responds I can't see around corners. I then loose it by saying well I'm off, player welfare etc walking off he produces the yellow card, so I'm told. Rightly so. It's in injury time, last play called. They put the ball dead, game over. We win, I got to play one last time and I also received my first and only yellow card.

We are then brought by coach to the local GAA grounds for a shower. The home of Henry Shefflin I’m told. He mustn't have been home as he left the hot water off.

We then are brought to the local pub for some post-match refreshments. Hang sandwiches and glorious pints of Guinness, big warm fire, Heaven!

The Ready Brek moment occurs, all rugby players feel it, it’s when you get that warm glow all over your body, when you feel no pain, the world is good and the pints are flowing. I go over to their captain to thank him for the hospitality and ask what age was the greying prop and balding second row, " ah that's John Joe, he is 39" I'm told. And the second row "ah he is only 37"

I was duped by Mr Boden.

We then return on the coach back to the club. Our voices are in good shape and everyone is brought up to the front of the bus to sing. The bus had no toilet so numerous pit stops are made on the way home. We arrive back to the club just in time for the Ireland v New Zealand game live from Chicago. The club is buzzing. Ireland win. Lads are hugging each other. The first time in history that we beat New Zealand at international men's Rugby.

If Carlsberg ever did a rugby day that was it.

Moving forward, the J4s and J5s reached their targets by getting to the Division 6 and Division 11 League finals.

They J4s beat Old Belvedere 19-14 in the final played in Templeville Road. Captain Mick Daly lifted the trophy.

The J5s played Clontarf at home, losing 12-3 in the Division 11 final.

To finish we then headed to Swansea for an end of season tour. Playing Cefnethin RFC on a Friday evening and Dunvant RFC on the Saturday. What goes on tour stays on tour, but what a great bunch. The J5s were not finished as captain Gary Masterson lifted the DP Smyth Trophy after beating Terenure 5-0 in the final in amid May.

Mick Flats, Head coach J4/5

Source: J4-J5 Reunion booklet Feb 2017 (club-j5-extracts).

This year’s J4/5s are a great bunch of players, who are still willing to learn new things, and listen, even though they think they know it all.

The management were eager to keep things going after a rewarding season last year. New coaches Owen Clery and Stephen Teggart were appointed, and have been a great asset to the squad with their knowledge and passion.

New management of Colm Kavanagh, Karl Kelly and Vinnie Murray were brought on board, as well as the old guard of Mossy Davin, Colin Burkley and Stephen Boden. New captains in the shape of Michael Daly and Gary Masterson, who had to fill the big boots left by Balf and Binner. We had a dream team doing all the background work so that all the players have to do is turn up and play.

We had a fantastic pre season trip to Bruges, as well documented. The togetherness formed on that trip will bond the players going forward. Players got to know each other a little better and tours are important for that reason alone.

The J4s are now currently 2nd in the Metro Division 6 with everything to play for. They have Old Belvedere in the 2nd round of the Winters Cup.

The J5s are now currently 3rd in Division 11 with games against the top 2, Stillorgan and Clontarf yet to come. Unfortunately, they were knocked out of the Guilfoyle Cup by MU Barnhall.

Mick Flats, Head Coach J4/J5

Source: J4-J5 Junior Rugby History (2006-2017) (club website, posted by Maurice, 20 Feb 2017).

Last Saturday, the 18th February 2017, we held a J4/J5 Reunion Day.

This celebrated J4 and J5 Rugby in St Mary’s College RFC since 2006. It also remembered the 2009 J4 Winters cup, 2011 J4 League win, 2011 J4 League win, 2012 J5 O’Connor Cup win, 2015 D.P. Smyth J5 Blitz win and 2016 D.P. Smyth J5 Blitz win.

The day began with two big wins for the current teams in their respective league games. J4 v MU Barnhall (H) 18.02.2017 J5 XV v Clontarf (H) 18.02.2017

It was great to see many former players who joined us throughout the day and evening. A great night was had by all.

Source: blitz/D.P. Smyth J5 Blitz 2017.

The D. P. Smyth J5 Blitz 2017 took place in Templeville Road on Saturday 13th May 2017.

History of the D.P. Smyth Trophy The "D.P. Smyth" trophy was presented a number of years ago by the family of Dermot Smyth to the Rugby Club to be used as a J5 Cup. Dermot was a past pupil of St. Mary's College and was captain of their first ever JCT win in 1934. He went on to captain the Rugby Club (1939 - 41) during which he won 2 caps for Leinster (1940). He was elected President of the Rugby Club (1960 - 63). As well as President of the Leinster Branch he was also an Irish Selector and served on many committees over the years. Dermot's two sons, son in law and four grandsons have all played for St. Mary's College in recent years.

Dermot’s grandson Colin and great grandson Tim represented the Smyth Family at the competition.

This Season’s Edition Taking part this year were St Mary’s J5, Stillorgan, Tallaght and Terenure. In this four team blitz each team played each other once in the Pool stages with games fifteen minutes long.

Referees on the day were Susan Carty and Colin Burkley.

The opening games saw St Mary’s beat Stillorgan 14-0. This was followed by Terenure winning 12-0 against Tallaght.

In the second round of games St Mary’s beat neighbours Terenure 5-0. It was a very tight game between the sides. Meanwhile Stillorgan beat Tallaght 12-0.

In the final round of games St Mary’s beat Tallaght 22-0 and Terenure beat Stillorgan 5-0.

The Shield final was between Stillorgan and Tallaght. Stillorgan were the winners of this match 15-5. A close match despite the scoreline.

Then Cup Final. Another D6W Derby!!! In another very tight game between the sides St Mary’s were the eventual by one try to win the D.P. Smyth J5 Blitz for the third year in a row.

See you for the 2018 Installment!!!

RESULTS ROUND-UP

Round 1: St Mary’s 14-0 Stillorgan Terenure 12-0 Tallaght

Round 2: St Mary’s 5-5 Terenure Stillorgan 12-0 Tallaght

Round 3: St Mary’s 22-0 Tallaght Terenure 5-0 Stillorgan

Shield Final: Stillorgan 15-5 Tallaght

Final: St Mary’s 5-0 Terenure

Source: Membership Book 2017-18 (J5 results 2016-17).

R1 – J5 XV 14-0 Stillorgan; R2 – J5 XV 5-0 Terenure; R3 – J5 XV 22-7 Tallaght; Final - J5 XV 5-0 Terenure;