Local's Clash!!

Malahide RFC 6 Swords RFC 0

A MUCH improved Swords went down by two converted penalties to a battling Malahide side in a crunching encounter at Estuary Road last Sunday. After a narrow opening day defeat for both sides, Malahide edged out their Fingal rivals, taking a 6-0 lead into half-time which they preserved until the end.

In horrible conditions, it was certainly an occassion for "up the jumper" rugby as two heaving packs battled hard throughout. Both sides were reduced to 14 men at two stages during the match as local rivalry spilled over. Malahide had the edge in the backline, while the forward battle was evenly matched, where Mal Bradley and Matt Corbett were outstanding for the visitors.

In the end, the hosts held on for a tight win, although Mike Finnegan nearly snatched a result at the death with a breakaway interception, but he was caught short. Swords vice-captain, Shane Mulligan was upbeat in spite of the loss.

"It was a much improved performance, I think we just lacked the killer edge that comes from playing together regularly, but at least we are two points better off at this time, than last year," Mulligan said.