Last week one of Ulster,s biggest clubs, Ballynahinch, couldn’t get its 17s across the line against this City of Derry outfit with the growing reputation, and were comprehensively beaten. MN U17s did!
Just 4 of this MN team are moving on next season and 7 just joined this season, so we get a picture of the relative youth and inexperience of the MN lads. MN were up against it, opposition was older, wiser and a more experienced outfit. But MN coaches accept that the best team won, a team with a pack that is seen, maybeto be the best at this age in Ulster, the strength, intensity and bulk of their pack out muscling the younger MN forwards, too often for MN to get a grip on the game. Early warning signals weren’t good when after off loading, the ever threatening Mark Quigley incurred a late heavy tackle to exposed ribs, that even the Derry manager said deserved a red card. Mark never returned to the pitch while his opposite returned after 10 minutes. Nevertheless, MN were able to hold this formidable pack for 10 to 15 minutes at at time with Daniel Mc Gregor showing his commitment and strength in every clash. But when the Derry backs broke thro, the all weather surface was a gift against a MN team finding themselves stretched as they battled against the fitter Derry forwards. A well worked move saw Andrew Mc Phillips pounce with conviction to get MN’s only try and subsequent conversion. Mc Phillip’s later 3 points was never going to be enough to avoid disappointment against this team that beat us in a semi 2 years ago. This young MN team will have learned a lesson, playing against the best, never lying down, they can hold their heads high.
Roll on next season !
