It has been a long time since Newry and Carrick have played competitively in a league fixture, and an eagerly awaited match did not disappoint. Carrick and Newry fought hard in the pack and backs and neither team gave an inch. Newry’s attack came from centre’s Ryan Sparkes and Patrick Wentworth, both combining well with scrum half Ryan Grant and out half Darren Marshall, all to no avail as the first half ended 0-0.Newry started the better in the second half with the Newry forwards taking the game to Carrick. Paul Haughey and Richard Gordon broke the Carrick line repeatedly with new boys Conor O’Neill, Chris Best, Brian Scullion and Nick McDaid quick in support. An excellent take by Scullion in the line-out and a powerful drive by the forwards resulted in a try. Unfortunately the conversion came of the post. Carrick responded and the Newry players tackled ferociously. Eventually the line was broken and the scores levelled at 5-5. Newry pressed and kept Carrick pinned in their own half. With the game heading for full time, the Carrick backs broke Newry hearts with a break away try under the posts and the game ended 5-12. An excellent performance from Newry against a team who have beaten our league counterparts easily and we will look forward to the return fixture.
Newry team: C Best, D Reilly, C O’Neill, P Haughey, P McShane, N McDaid, B Scullion, R Gordon, R Grant, D Marshall, S Larkin, R Sparkes, P Wentworth, D Doyle, F Lewis
Newry 3rd XV bag the points again
For the second weekend in a row Newry thirds walked away with the spoils, this time courtesy of Virginia seconds, who were unable to field despite the fixture actually being at home in Virginia. It speaks volumes for the current success of the Newry club that the player and team base continues to expand at a time when clubs all around Ulster and Ireland are losing players and folding teams. Not only are three teams now being fielded on a regular basis but the clamour for game time from playing members is such that a Newry fourths team is now being mooted as a way to satisfy those demands. So if you live in the Newry and Mourne area and fancy a game of rugby then come out to Telford Park at Derryleckagh and get yourself selected for the position and team of your choice.
Ireland Autumn Internationals
Excitement is building as the first ever series of international rugby matches gets underway at the brand new Aviva stadium in Dublin this November. Newry Rugby Club has just received its allocation of tickets for these matches and have obtained a mixture of both ordinary stand and premium level tickets. Tickets are available to members and non-members alike and can be purchased by contacting the club at 07828042041 or 07768146123.
Next Weekend
Newry Firsts are back in action next weekend with an important cup fixture away to Cavan town. A team and supporters bus has been organised and everyone is welcome to join in the annual Cavan pilgrimage.
