Saturday 20th February. Andrew Smallwoods reports.
It was another late, late show by ‘Skins that saw them squeeze past a strong ‘Dee outfit and into the Towns Cup semi-finals.
Early on the two sides swapped penalties, with Nicky Finlay the successful kicker for ‘Skins, before both scored a try apiece before the halftime break. Donaghadee’s forwards gave Enniskillen’s pack a torrid time in the scrums and lineout but on the other side of the ball ‘Skins backline always looked to carry a bit more threat.
‘Skins first half try came following a well timed interception from Alan Wilkinson in midfield and excellent support from Ricky Connor saw him the try scorer. Finlay was successful with the conversion and this proved to the difference between the teams at the interval, with ‘Skins leading 8 – 10.
Two penalties for the hosts put them in the driving seat at 14 – 10, and it looked like the Section Two side where going to take another Section One scalp, having accounted for Coleraine comprehensively in the previous round, but ‘Skins worked hard and eventually the effort paid off when fullback Mark O’Shea crossed for a try with the last play. Finlay stepped up and converted from wide out with the final act that was greeted with disbelieving silence by the large home support. Contrast that with the jubilation from the visitors, especially those who viewed the match from the bar!
Whilst the team did not play particularly well, there were some positives to take from the game apart from a great win. There were three or four changes forced on the side due to illness and injury but still they managed to grind out the win. The return of Gareth McCoy was another huge plus and everyone hopes that his knee will hold out for the last few weeks of the season. Lastly the spirit displayed by all was a great credit to them.
Enniskillen entertain Dromore this weekend and must look to build on recent good results. There has been some great friendship over the years between the two clubs and entertainment is planned for after the game in the clubhouse along with England v Ireland, so come along for a great day’s craic.
Enniskillen: G Warrington, R Cathcart, R Beatty, R Crawford, M O’Callaghan, D Buchanan, G Hall (capt), J Carelton, R Connor, N Finlay, G Parke, A Wilkinson, M Law, C Dickey, M O’Shea. Subs: G Beatty, G McCoy.
