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26 April 2008

Balbriggan Win Jenkinson Cup

After a long barren spell Balbriggan won the North East Jenkinson Cup on Saturday defeating Boyne 33 - 17 in the final. For many on the team this was their first competition win and this was refelcted in the post match celebrations. It was also a night for brothers - with Balbriggan fielding three set of brothers on the night , Conor and colin Casey, John and Andy Whitment and Michael and Maurice McAuley.

The Balbriggan side took a long time to settle into the game, after staring well they had to ensure sever Boyne pressure. A penalty from Conor Casey saw Balbriggan take a lead but this was negated by a goal from Boyne. Boyne then were on top for most of the half and added a further penalty but just on half time a break by the Balbriggan backs saw Maurice McAuley send older brother Michale into the corner for a try. This left the half time score at 8 - 10.

The half time team tak saw a change of tactics from Balbriggan and they started to maul the ball more before releasing the backs. The Balbriggan pack benefited from the return of Captain Karl Roche and veteran Packie O'connor both of whom had been on the injured list from the early weeks of the season. eventually Balbriggan got the break through when Conor Casy made a break that beat the defence and passed to brother Colin to score under the posts. Balbriggan added a couple of penalties converted by Maurice McAuley when teh Boyne discipline slipped. Balbriggan then brought in U20s Kirean Malone and andy Whitney to replace tired legs. Whitney marked his debut by finishing off a good back move scoring inthe corner. Conor Casey wrapped up the scoring with another characteristic break and score under the posts. Boyne replied with a score in injury time but the victory was Balbriggans.

After the match team coach Des O'Connor noted that this was a well derved victory and a great way to end the season and hoped that this would npw give this young team confidence to go forward to better things next season.

Balbriggan: S Mullen, C McNally, J Mullen, M McAuley, Mi McAuley, C Casey, A Smith, P O'Hare C Casey, P O'connor, C Caldwell, A Egan, J Whitney, C Roche (Capt), P Quinn.
subs: D Sheridan, A Whitney, P Comey, P Joyce, K Malone

Balbriggan Tag Blitz

On Saturday Balbriggan held the first of a series on mini blitzes. The Blitzes are being supported by Fingal County Council and the Dormant Accounts fund as a means fo attracting new players into the sport. Club YDO has been working with the local national schools to encourage children to take up sport. With the growth in population in Balbriggan many families are unaware of the range of sports available.

On saturaday there were over 60 kids participating in the event. They played a series of tag matches and also had a kicking competition and then ended up with a kicking competition. The day also benefited from the first spring like day in a while. The day concluded with a BBQ.

Overall it was a great success and the next day is scheduled for Saturday 25th May at 2.30pm at the Club's Balrothery ground.

 

 

 

2/05/07 Balbriggan Defend Rugby Title
The Under 18s of Balbriggan Rugby Club defended their Leinster Plate title they won last season by defeating New Ross in a close encounter. Balbriggan entered the match knowing they had the ability to lift the trophy as long as they played to the same standard they had set for themselves the previous week in a near fautless semi final against Tallaght. New Ross who had earnt the right to play in the decider by defeating Wexford in the second semi final were expected to be a much tougher opponent and so by match end it proved. Both sides scored one try each in the first half with the match ultimately being decided by the boot. New Ross opened the scoring with a well taken try to their centre following some good passing and running by their backs. This try was converted and New Ross lead 5 – 0. This lead was then extended with a penalty and Balbriggan found themselves 8 – 0 down. With plenty of time left in the first half Balbriggan lifted their game with the forward’s maul starting to have a major effect on the game. The work of the Balbriggan maul which marched up field twenty metres on no fewer then four occasions in the latter part of the first half was augmented by the play of Balbriggan’s halves. Scrum-half Daniel McGrogan and out-half Ian Murphy running off the back of Balbriggan’s maul began dictating the course of play and ultimately the match. It was on the back of one of Balbriggan’s surges down field that Balbriggan found themselves back in the match. New Ross threw them-selves into Balbriggan’s maul and backline ball but found themselves on the wrong end of the referee. After being awarded two penalties in a row Balbriggan found themselves camped on the New Ross try-line. Setting a maul as they had done so successfully through the match to that point it seemed only a matter of time. Whilst it was the maul that set the platform Balbriggan found themselves over the try-line following an astute pass from McGrogan. With the maul halted by New Ross, McGrogan passed to the blind-side to his second row team-mate Conor Daly who did enough to crash over. Balbriggan now trailed 8 – 5. This lead was reduced further to 8 – 7 with McGrogan slotting an exceptional conversion in trying windy conditions. Balbriggan had in deed found themselves back in the match with the half-time score remaining 8 – 7. With a very even first half it was obvious the match was going down to the wire. Balbriggan lifted throughout the second half playing with much better field position then New Ross with the ball only coming into their own quarter on two occasions whilst New Ross seemed to be defending for the remainder of the match. Balbriggan made numerous breaks only to be denied time and time again by the stoic defence of New Ross. With the better of the field position McGrogan who definitely had his kicking boots on this day gave Balbriggan a 10 – 8 lead with a calmly taken penalty. This lead was held onto until the fulltime whistle which went with Balbriggan camped on New Ross’ try-line which was a fitting end as Balbriggan’s dominance during the second half saw the majority of the game played in this part of the field. With McGrogan and Murphy leading from the front in the backs they were ably assisted by Tom Hagan, Brian Russell and Maurice Sheehy who all had exceptional games in the Balbriggan forward pack although you would have to go a long way to find anyone to say that everyone else in the Balbriggan side didn’t play their part in the victory.
1. Mark Brown 2. Leigh O’Toole 3. Tony Healy (c) 4. Conor Daly 5. Brian Russell 6. Conor McMahon 7. Tom Hagan 8. Maurice Sheehy 9. Daniel McGrogan 10. Ian Murphy 11. Andy Whitney 12. Aaron Poynton 13. Ciaran Smith 14. Brendan Gallagher 15. Sean Kenny 16. Stephen Harford 17. Steffano Vettraine 18. Eamonn Harford 19. Ciaran Verdon 20. Dave Sheridan 21. Ronan Caswell

2 Photos added to gallery. Here

17/04/07 Balbriggan Secure Chance To Defend Title
The Balbriggan Under 18s rugby side have secured the chance of defending their Leinster Plate title they won last season following victory over Tallaght in last weekends semi final. The win follows on from hard fought quarter final success the week before against Edenderry. Playing at home against Edenderry, Balbriggan took the match 13 – 9 scoring two tries to nil. Daniel McGrogan scored the first picking the ball up and crashing over following a good drive by Conor Daly. Edenderry hit back with two penalties to take the lead 6 – 5. With half time approaching Balbriggan’s Captain Tony Healy stormed onto a ball a full 15 metres out and with enough speed up barged over to take back the lead 10 – 6. Edenderry completed the first half scoring with another penalty to trail at the break 10 – 9. Balbriggan secured the match with the only other score being a penalty from in front of the posts which then secured their semi final chance against Tallaght. The confidence garnered from the Edenderry victory was evident in bucket loads against Tallaght as Balbriggan ran out convincing 29 – 7 victors. The win was built on stoic defence and excellent ball movement all round the park. Balbriggan scored three tries in the first half with the first going to Maurice Sheehy who finished off some nice forward drive to pick up and crash over. Daniel McGrogan converted from the sideline and Balbriggan lead 7 – 0. Sheehy then played a role in his sides second score picking the ball up from the back of a solid scrum, popping inside to the ever present Tom Hagan who dove over to put his side 12 – 0 up with the conversion missed. Balbriggan then extended their lead to 19 – 0 with what was the try of the match. Following several phases of interplay between the backs and forwards Lightning Ciaran Smith found himself in the clear for the converted score. Balbriggan also added a penalty in the first half, although Tallaght managed the last score of the first stanza scoring a well taken converted try of their own. If Smith’s try was the score of the match then the only points to come in the second half were probably the cleverest. Balbriggan on winning a lineout ten metres from Tallaght’s line threw short to the front of the lineout, the ball then popped back to the hooker, who then popped it back inside to Balbriggan’s Captain Tony Healy who on catching Tallaght’s defence napping strolled over to score. Balbriggan had secured their victory and earnt the right to defend their title in two weeks time against New Ross who had won their semi final against Wexford.

4/04/07 Under 18s Edge Closer to Title Defence
Balbriggan’s Under 18s rugby team have come one step closer towards defending their Leinster Plate won last season with a solid 20 – 3 win away to Longford. Balbriggan now enter round four at home to Edenderry. Victory against Edenderry would then put the holders into a semi final and a real chance of back to back titles.
The Under 14s of Balbriggan completed their season playing Under lights in Ashbourne. Whilst disappointed to lose the match 47 – 14, the novelty of being under lights made the trip to Ashbourne’s revamped facilities a real novelty for Balbriggan’s young charges. Ashbourne dominated play during the start of the match scoring four run away tries. Balbriggan hit back as half time approached scoring two converted tries of their own with Shane Rooney and Mark Spellman scoring and Kyle Healy converting both. Although Ashbourne scored four more tries in the second half, Balbriggan ended the match knowing they made their hosts work really hard for all of their spoils with all twenty five of the Balbriggan squad playing their part during the match. With Rooney being a stand out for Balbriggan he was well supported on the night by Jamie Fogarty, Sean O’Byrne, Ciaran Browne, Tom Domigan and Ben Moore.
The Balbriggan Community College completed their run of matches in the North East Development League at First Year level with a home match to Dundalk and an away game to Ardee. With running rugby being the order of the day a number of tries were scored in both matches. As for the winners, Dundalk won it’s away match to Balbriggan scoring six tries to three whilst Balbriggan also won on the road, defeating Ardee 26 – 14. Balbriggan scored four tries in Ardee with Shane Rooney and Chris Hagan scoring whilst Gregorz Pogorzelski scored twice.

28/03/07 Balbriggan Schools Rugby Report
The first years rugby squad of Balbriggan Community College played their latest match in the North East Development League away to St Marys of Drogheda. Playing into a strong breeze in the first half the Balbriggan lads found the going tough with St Marys getting out to a 19 – 0 towards the end of the half time beak following three well taken tries. Knowing that a score before the beak would put them back into the game Balbriggan soon found their feet and following some damaging runs by Shane Rooney who popped a beautiful pass out the back door to Shane Bertram, Balbriggan had scored in the corner. They were now trailing 19 – 5 and plying with new resolve. Bertram was once again on hand to open the scoring for the second half and with the try converted Balbriggan were now well in the match 19 – 12. St Marys however weren’t done crossing the line for their fourth try of the match to now lead 26 – 12. Rooney, who was putting in a man of the match performance for his side got his own rewards barging over the line for a well taken try after he picked the ball up from the back of a scrum. Balbriggan were now within range of their hosts 26 – 17 but were unable to continue the come back with St Marys holding on for victory. Others to support Rooney and Bertram on the day in playing well for Balbriggan were Daniel Edwards, Darragh O’Cuinnegain, Jamie Fogarty and Grzegorz Pogorzelski.

28/02/07 Balbriggan Finish League In Top Half Of Table
Balbriggan’s Senior rugby team finished a credible seventh out of fourteen teams on the points table of Division Three of the Leinster League. With results including a win and a draw over local rivals Malahide and Swords respectively, Balbriggan have improved from ninth position last season and eleventh the season before that. With Tullow, Longford and Rathdrum setting the pace for most of the season Balbriggan now know what needs to be done to not only improve again next year but also make a push for league success. For coach Dale McAuley it was a couple of losses around Christmas that played a crucial part in determining Balbriggan’s League finish. “Every side will always look back on the season and talk about the, what ifs, but I think the two losses to Arklow (13-10) and Clane (18-12) around Christmas became crucial. If we had of won those games that would of set us up better for our run during the new year. It wasn’t to be, but in the end we are delighted to of improved again in finishing seventh.”
Balbriggan started the next chapter of their season over the weekend with a 31 – 0 win away to Ardee in the North East Jenkinson Cup. Doing most of the running during the match Balbriggan scored five tries to nil, scoring two in the first half and three in the second. John Whitney, who is improving all the time at out-half played exceptionally well putting Michael McAuley through a gap with a perfectly timed cut out pass to score Balbriggan’s first try. Whitney was on hand again for Balbriggan’s second try when he broke Ardee’s defence to then pop the ball to the rampaging Andy Smith who side stepped Ardee’s cover to score under the posts. Cathal McNulty converted both of Balbriggan’s tries and the visitors lead 14 – 0 at the break. Playing off the back of a dominant scrum Balbriggan had some early chances of scoring on the resumption of play only to be let down by some handling errors. Michael McAuley got things back on track for Balbriggan when he was on the end of a lovely pass out of traffic by Conor Caldwell. Caldwell in making a twenty metre run and attracting three defenders to himself used his strength to get the ball out to McAuley who crashed over in the corner. Caldwell then played a role in Balbriggan’s fourth try being on hand with the final pass to replacement Dale McAuley who in pushing off two defenders did enough to go over near the posts. Whitney finished things off nicely for the visitors scoring under the posts after receiving a kick from forty metres out. He beat four defenders capping off a superb game. Others that played well for Balbriggan were Karl Roche who was man of the match at Number 8 and Brian Darcy who was solid at first centre. The win puts the side in good stead as they are preparing for their first Towns Cup match against Tullow which is to be played away the weekend after next. Following their win over Ardee, Balbriggan have an extra training session planned this Sunday as part of their preparation for Tullow.

 

21/02/07 Balbriggan Pipped At Post By Ratoath
Balbriggan’s Under 14s were pipped at the post recently in one of the entertaining matches of the season going down at home 34 – 27. Entering the game with high hopes of going one step further than a 10 all draw the last time the two sides met, Balbriggan were slow to start allowing a couple of tries in early on. They soon hit back with a well taken try scored by Tom Domigan who may of found himself a place in the forwards to trail 10 – 5. Ratoath however strengthened their first half advantage scoring on two other occasions to lead at the break 20 – 5 having scored four tries to Balbriggan’s one. Whatever was said at halftime seemed to work in Balbriggan’s favour with the home side scoring the next two tries to Andrew McCaffrey and Domigan once again. With one of the tries converted Balbriggan now trailed 20 – 17. Ratoath stretched their lead to 27 – 17 having scored their fifth try. Balbriggan quite remarkably scored to make the match interesting again with Niall Duffy scoring a length of the pitch run away try. Both sides once again exchanged scores with Balbriggan’s McCaffrey scoring his second leaving the score at 34 – 27 with minutes to go. Both sides with chances of ball in hand were unable to trouble the scorers again with the final result sitting in Ratoath’s favour. For Balbriggan Shane Rooney and Kyle Healy assisted Balbriggan’s try scorers in playing well. Balbriggan’s Under 10s turned the tables on Rataoath taking the spoils in another close match 10 – 7 whilst Balbriggan’s 12s lost gallantly 6 – 3 to Skerries. The Skerries match was highlighted by the tackling of Ruari O’Byrne and all round good play for James Goodman for Balbriggan. They were ably assisted by Adam Newe and Dara O’Cuinneagain who also played well.
Photos of Athboy Vs Balbriggan by Joe Curtis 14th Jan 2007. Here

7/02/07 Balbriggan’s Under 16s Taste Sweet Rugby Victory
Balbriggan’s Under 16s tasted a sweet victory over Athboy in an away game coming away with the spoils 45 – 5. In a game that took a little while going Balbriggan soon hit their straps with man of the moment Dave Sheridan scoring the first of his two tries. The try was converted and Balbriggan lead 7 – 0. Rua O’Cuinneagain was next on the score-sheet with a devastating run of his own, a try which was converted and Balbriggan had a 14 – 0 lead. It was only soon after that Sheridan troubled the scorers for the second time giving Balbriggan a 19 – 0 lead. Athboy who had been gallant throughout, making the visitors work extremely hard for their rewards were next to score. Following some good lead up play and consistent drive Balbriggan soon ran out of numbers with Athboy crashing over for a deserved score. With half-time looming and somewhat against the run of play Balbriggan how ever scored again with Ciaran Verdon on hand to pick up an innocuous ball and place it over the line for his teams fourth try of the half and a 26 – 5 lead. Balbriggan scored three more tries in the second half with each of Shane McGuiness, Darren Sweetman and Sean Malone scoring. At the end of the day Balbriggan had their deserved win.
Recent results for Balbriggan’s younger charges have been a little mixed. The Under 12s have defeated Ashbourne 5 – 2, drawn with Suttonians 6 all and lost to Navan 5 – 0 whilst the Under 10s have defeated Ashbourne 6 – 5 and lost to Boyne, Dundalk, Navan, Barnhall and Naas 6 – 2, 2 – 1, 7 – 3, 2 – 1 and 2 – 1 respectively. With a lot of close losses more often then not by just the one score this close group of lads that is the Balbriggan Under 10s have promised to keep working hard with a turn around in results surely just around the corner.

 

24/01/07 Balbriggan’s Under 7s Experience First Win
The Under 7s of the Balbriggan Rugby Club experienced their first win of the season defeating Dundalk 4 – 3. After having previously played four matches with their best result being a draw against Skerries Balbriggan’s young charges were delighted to come out the victors and kick-starting a new chapter of Balbriggan rugby. Try scorers for Balbriggan were Sean Hussey and Ciaran Murphy who scored two each. Balbriggan also played Dundalk at Under 8s level losing in a close match 3 – 1 with Cormac O’Byrne scoring the try. O’Byrne also scored on three other occasions against Boyne helping his side to a 5 – 1 victory. Jake Vickers and Peter Lawless were the other try scorers on the day. Balbriggan also played Dundalk and Boyne at Under 10s level losing 2 – 1 and 6 – 0 respectively.

 

17/01/07 Balbriggan Mini Rugby Report
Balbriggan’s Under 7s and 8s played Skerries with mixed results the order of the day. Balbriggan in fact played two matches at Under 7s level coming away with a draw in the first match 5 all and losing the second match narrowly 6 – 4. Try scorers on the day for Balbriggan were Johnothan O’Carrol and Sean Hussey. Cian Nulty and Rory Kennedy played exceptionally well quite often providing the final pass leading to tries being scored. Dara Carr marshalled his team-mates well in defence and was aided by Ciaran Murphy who played an excellent game in his first match of rugby and Daniel O’Byrne who never stopped trying. Liam Ruelens was also outstanding especially with ball in hand. Balbriggan’s Under 8s also managed a draw against Skerries with the end result reading 4 all. Balbriggan’s four tries came from Cormac O’Byrne, Peter Lawless, Jake Vickers and Stephen Newe.

 

25/10/06 Balbriggan Community College Win First Rugby Cup Match
Balbriggan Community College’s Junior Cup Rugby team won their first cup match with an away win at Tallaght. The win was a great bonus for the school who are fielding in the Leinster Development Cup at this level for the first time. They now move on to face St fintans from Sutton in the second round. The match with Tallaght ending 12 – 7 in Balbriggan’s favour with both tries going to Daryl Whyte. Whyte was well supported on the day by Shane Egan who was easily best on pitch and Anto Murphy who had a great game at outhalf. The college’s senior cup side also met Tallaght in the first round with tallaght taking the spoils on the day.
As for Balbriggan club rugby there were plenty of youth teams in action with the Under 8s and 10s playing Dundalk at home. The Under 10s came out 10 – 7 winners after a very competitive game. Scorers on the day were David Goodman, Brian Smyth, Robert O’Byrne, Steven Sharpe and a hat trick from the very impressive Liam Thornton. In defense Eoin Foley and Jordan Collins tackled with great determination.
The Under 8s were beaten 4-1 and will improve as a number of new players were having their first game. The scorer on the day was Peter Lawless who touched down in the corner after a excellent break. Others to play well included Jon O’Carroll, Steven Munson, Steven Hughes, Cormac O’Byrne, Gavin Mullen, Dylan Collins, Jack Perdue and Oisin Benton.
Balbriggan’s Under 12s also played Dundalk losing in a great game 4 – 1 with Ryan McGrogan scoring Balbriggan’s try after a great break. Best on the day for Balbriggan were Conor McEntee whose tackling is something to be seen, Ruari O’Byrne who gave great service at scrumhalf and Andrew Corscoran who never stopped trying.
Balbriggan’s Under 14s and 16s traveled to Ashbourne with the home side securing wins in both age groups. The Under 14s match had plenty of tries scored with Ashbourne winning 30 – 10. try-scorers for Balbriggan were Jamie Fogarty and Mark Spellman. Sean Bruton had his best game ever for Balbriggan making numerous breaks and defending really well. Ciaran Browne also played well making numerous good runs with the ball in hand. Balbriggan’s 16s came up against a very good side in Ashbourne and were never in the hunt with all in attendance on the day playing manfully to the final whistle. Ian Rogan, Sanjo, James O’Neill and John Courteney who were all new comers to the squad fitted in well and never stopped trying.

25/10/06 Balbriggan Remain Undefeated With Emphatic Home Win
The Balbriggan Senior Rugby team remain undefeated in all competitions after an emphatic 29 – 6 home win against Birr. The win sees the team with three Leinster League wins and a draw well placed towards the top of the League table. The side has also two other wins to their credit with these victories coming in the North East Cup. It is however understandably the current success at Leinster league level that has the place buzzing at the moment.
Although comfortable winners on the day, Balbriggan had to work hard against Birr, scoring the majority of their points in the last twenty minutes. Birr in fact went into the halftime break leading 3 – 0. Both sides exchanged penalties early in the second half, with Birr holding a 6 – 3 advantage with twenty minutes to go. It was at this time that Balbriggan lifted their work rate and resolve turning down opportunities to shoot for penalty, instead preferring to maintain field position to have a crack at the line. Two or three possessions later and the tactic paid off. After firstly being denied close to the line and then held up over the line, Balbriggan received another penalty with the side deciding to take a quick tap. Bouncing off two defenders from ten metres out Balbriggan’s Captain Packie O’Connor on being scragged by the third defender had enough momentum to reach out and score on the line. The try was converted by Cathal McNulty and Balbriggan lead 10 – 6. From that point on Balbriggan were always in control scoring three more tries seemingly every time they made it into Birr’s territory. The last try came with one minute remaining securing Balbriggan an all important bonus point for scoring four tries. The bonus point try was scored by Daragh Keran who came on at halftime to play in the unfamiliar position of Tighthead Prop. Keran’s inexperience in this specialist position quickly evaporated as he in fact not only sured up Balbriggan’s scrum but also turned it into a weapon.
O’Connor and Keran were well supported on the day by Paddy Connolly who gave great service at scrumhalf and Karl Roche who continues to impress at centre especially with what he brings to the team in organising it’s mid field defence. James Mullen was recognised as Balbriggan’s man of the match at first centre following some barnstorming runs and big hits in defence and could be one to watch for the future as he steadily improves.

18/10/06 A Feast Of Schools Rugby
First and Second years at Balbriggan Community college were introduced to schools rugby for the first time this year participating in a seven a side rugby blitz amongst themselves over a two week period. The blitz competition coordinated hand in hand between the school itself and Balbriggan Rugby Club’s Development Officers Dale McAuley and Daniel Lyngcoln gives first and second years the chance to experience rugby at a fun level against peers of the same age. Each year was split into four teams, with the lads nominating their own sides. Each side then played each other once over and hour and a half period each week for two weeks with points awarded for wins, draws, losing by less then a try and for scoring more then four tries. A final was then played between the top two sides at the end of week twos for bragging rights around the school. Four second year teams graced the field in their own competition with the “Sly Sharks” and “Fingal Force” narrowly beating “Balbriggan Thunder” and “Aussie Devils” to the final. With plenty of tries scored, the final ended in a draw with school bragging rights shared.
As for the first year teams “Rooney Squad” and “Nathans Cows” qualified for the final with “Chip Stix Bengal Tigers” and “Domigans Dingoes” narrowly missing the top two spots. Bragging rights at the end of the tournament went to Rooney Squad who pipped Nathans Cows by a try. The tournament itself was not only an opportunity for the first year lads to have some fun but to also put their hands up for selection in a first year team for some friendly matches to complete a trio of sides for the school with the Junior and Senior teams already waving the school flag in the Leinster Development Cup.


Second Year 7s Blitz

18/10/06 Balbriggan Community college Enter junior and Senior Leinster Rugby Cup
The Balbriggan Community College played their first inter school rugby match last Thursday with an away friendly to St Marys in Drogheda. The match gave both sides the opportunity to hone their skills for their respective first round Leinster Junior Cup matches this week. As a follow on from the Marys match Balbriggan’s Junior side will be away to Tallaght with victory ensuring a second round birth in the Cup. It is Balbriggan’s first entry at Junior Leinster level following their Senior counterparts footsteps who entered the Cup for the first time last year. The Junior sides entry alongside the Senior team has completed another chapter in the development of Balbriggan rugby.
The Marys match itself proved most advantageous with a number of players and numerous combinations tried by Balbriggan. Lead in the forward pack well by Ian Rogan and John Courteney Balbriggan threw themselves into the match against their slightly more experienced opponents with running rugby being the theme of the day. It was St Marys however that reaped any benefits from their attacks scoring two tries towards the end of the first half. Balbriggan then started the second half the better with out-half Anto Murphy coming into his own and getting his side going forward. This better control of the ball saw Balbriggan surging up field eventuating in a try to Daryl Whyte. Back in the game Balbriggan rung the changes to look at different options and to give all an equal shot at securing a jersey for the following weeks Cup team. It was at this stage of the match that flanker James O’Neill came into his own ably assisting Balbriggan’s man of the match Shane Egan in securing possession and shutting down St Mary’s attack with text book tackle after text book tackle. Balbriggan then made another break with Chris McMahon shooting down the sideline with the try-line beckoning. McMahon in his excitement tripped over his own foot and the opportunity was lost. St Marys scored soon after and any opportunity for Balbriggan to win was gone. The team now look forward to their Cup match with Tallaght knowing full well they will be better for it from their match with St Marys who were worthy winners.


Junior Cup Team

18/10/06 Onwards and Upwards For Balbriggan’s Mini Rugby Section Click Here.

First Year Blitz
18/10/06 Balbriggan Youth Rugby. Click Here

Balbriggan U12’s have 28,000 die-hard rugby fans in raptures at Lansdowne Road
On 6th of October in Lansdowne road Balbriggan took on the might of North Kildare on front of 28,000 fans. Of course most of these fans came to see this match which kicked off at 8:15.
The 28,000 crowd was warmed up for the by the curtain raiser between Leinster and Munster but were in raptures when the main event began. From the start it was clear that Balbriggan were intent on bringing the game to North Kildare. Willed on by the huge crowd the forwards pounded the Kildare defences which held up to every advance by the Balbriggan team. Across the field through the backs hands and still no luck in breaching the North Kildare defence which were up to 3 inches taller per man (they must feed them more meat down there).


As the minutes passed it seemed that Balbriggan must score but out of the blue a breakaway for North Kildare put paid to any ambitions that Balbriggan had. Heart break!. A second followed in similar fashion a couple of minutes after and then the final whistle.
Alas Balbriggan had lost but who cares we played well put our tackles and performed like a TEAM. All went home happy especially the team in the knowledge that that they will have been the last members of Balbriggan to play in this version of Lansdowne in a competitive match.

The last time a Balbriggan team had played in Lansdowne road was in 1977 and went on to win the Culleten cup that day. Incidentally one of tonight’s coaches John O’Byrne was a member of that team and his son Ruairi is a member of this team.
Everybody connected deserves a mention for their commitment on and off the field. We cannot name the 50-100 parents, brothers, sisters, friends and club mates who came to cheer us on but appreciate their support as indeed we wish to thank the Leinster branch for arranging such a wonderful event.
The squad (not in any particular order)
Glenn Foley. Patrick Healy, Andrew Corscoran, Darragh O'Cuinnegain, James Goodman, Ruairi O'Byrne, Ryan McGrogan, Conor Weldon, Jamie Fogarty, Aaron Bruton, Conor McEntee, Adam Newe, Charles Ward, Garry Hines and Stephen O'Byrne
The team was ably supported by the coaching staff of: John O'Byrne, Chris McGrogan, Tom Weldon and Daniel McGrogan
 
11/10/06 Balbriggan Come Out On Top In Local Derby
Balbriggan Senior rugby team came out on top defeating Malahide 18 – 16 in the first round of the Leinster League. In a very grafting first half the only points that came to either side came by way of the boot with each side slotting two penalties a piece. The second half proved to be a different affair with a few more breaks made by each side. First to benefit from the more open play was Balbriggan, with Captain and Number 8 Packie O’Connor crashing over to score on the back end of some good clearing out by Michael O’Keefe. O’Connor’s try was converted by Cathal McNulty and Balbriggan had a 13 – 6 lead. Malahide struck back with an unconverted try of their own, to trail 13 – 11. Balbriggan then rang the changes to immediate effect. Young wing sensation Ciaran Mackey burst into the game making numerous ground making surges and giving the team a real lift when needed. His inspirational play lead to a break made by the Balbriggan backline who were soon after awarded a penalty. The ensuing lineout five metres out from Malahide’s tryline had Balbriggan firmly on the attack. The ball found it’s way to the back of the maul and into the eager hands of super sub Dale McAuley who is developing a knack of adding that something special to the team when needed. McAuley’s presence in the maul, kept Balbriggan’s platform going forward which ultimately allowed him to crash over and score when Balbriggan’s own version of the human battering ram better known as left wing Damian Smith decided to fly in off his wing and add one final shove to the maul. It proved enough of a shove and Balbriggan lead 18 -11. Malahide scored out wide in the last minute of play and with the ensuing conversion attempt a draw was on the cards. The kick fell wide and Balbriggan had done enough to take the game.
Balbriggan also has their Under 8s, 10s and 12s in action. The 8s and 10s travelled to Malahide drawing three all and losing 5 – 3 respectively. The Under 12s travelled to Ratoath and came away victors 12 – 2.


4/10/06 Balbriggan’s 18s Narrowly Miss 10s Finals
Balbriggan’ Under 18s rugby team flew the club flag proudly finishing equal first at the North east 10 a side blitz. Taking the field for the 10 a side format , Balbriggan knew full well that scoring tries would be where the day would be won or lost. As each side would have to play four matches each it was imperative to get as many points on the board as well as winning as the matches were reduced significantly in terms of playing time to accommodate the number of games played. By the days end Balbriggan scored eight tries and conceded 3. Try-scorers for Balbriggan were Tom Hagan, Ian Murphy, Leigh O’Toole, Ciaran Smith and Aaron Poynton. Balbriggan tasted success over Boyne winning 10 – 5, against Navan winning 15 – 0 and also against Ashbourne winning 12 -5. The only defeat the squad had on the day came against Dundalk, with the home side winning 7 – 5. Having acquitted themselves so well, Balbriggan narrowly missed progressing to the Leinster 10s Finals by virtue of the fact that Boyne who also lost one match had a slightly better try count. Best for Balbriggan on the day were Tom Hagan and Ian Murphy. Balbriggan also competed at Under 16s level at the 10 a side blitz coming away with a victory over Dundalk and losing to Ashbourne, Skerries and Boyne.

27/09/06 Balbriggan Make It Two In A Row
The Balbriggan Senior rugby team made it two in a row with a rousing display at home in defeating Boyne in the North East area Jenkinson Cup. After two huge games between the sides last season, another thrilling encounter was on the cards. For those that took in the match, what ensued was an advertisement for the game itself as both sides left no stone unturned or ounce of energy left in the bodies as they fought it out for victory.
After several early exchanges Balbriggan got the better field position throwing themselves into sortie after sortie at the Boyne line. Either through general play, penalties or from setting up mauls close in Boyne were surely to crack with Balbriggan’s Kevin Casey going to within an inch of scoring on one occasion only to be held back. Boyne’s defence through this whole period proved up to it. With Balbriggan choosing to set a scrum as the next option on receipt of their next penalty, Boyne’s grit and determination in defence paid off as they secured a turnover in possession, kicked the ball down field to escape danger. What remained for the rest of the first half was similar with neither side able to convert any pressure into points. Both sides went into the break locked at nil all with surely someone going to crack after drinks. Boyne had the first opportunity to score points within the first two minutes of the resumption of play. The penalty kick on goal from right in front struck the post, rebounded into the field of play to be gathered by Balbriggan. From the ensuing phases of play, Balbriggan received a penalty of their own some twenty metres out from their own line. With Boyne expecting them to kick for touch, Balbriggan caught them on the hop, took a quick tap and decided to attack with ball in hand. Daniel Lyngcoln’s quick tap saw the ball after two passes find it’s way into Paul Quinn’s hands who hitting it at full speed found himself in the clear. Skirting the sideline, Quinn took the ball over the halfway line, passed back in field to the ever present Kevin Casey, who found Lyngcoln for his second touch who then passed back further in field to the flying James Mullen who shrugging of a clasping hand ran the ball over for the try. Cathal McNulty’s conversion had Balbriggan leading 5 – 0. Boyne hit back soon after scoring a try through some persistent mauling work in the forwards to once again lock up the scores at 5 all. McNulty then added a penalty for Balbriggan and a 8 – 5 lead. That lead was stretched even further through the excellent vision of Lyngcoln and a superb strike of the ball by out-half Paddy Connolly. With Lyngcoln seeing that Boyne’s fullback was badly out of position he screamed to Connolly that “no one’s home”. Connolly then sent a raking torpedo punt kick scorhing through the air a full fifty metres. The ball came down on it’s point, bounced up and backwards towards Balbriggan’s players who where steaming through. Balbriggan’s man on the spot, James Mullen jumped for the ball, popped it to Lyngcoln who was on hand to dive over and score. McNulty’s conversion from the sideline took Balbriggan to a handy 15 – 5 lead. Boyne next registered points with a penalty to bring the score back to 15 – 8, only to their resolve thwarted by Balbriggan’s persistence in play. Following good pressure on Boyne’s scrumhalf by Emmett Fahy the ball popped loose, was put on the toe by Balbriggan’s Number 8 Michael O’Keefe who with fifty metres to go put it to toe a couple of more times and had enough in the legs to out-sprint the cover, re-gather and dive under the posts. Balbriggan’s lead now stretched to 22 – 8. Boyne had the last as far as the scoreboard was concerned scoring a converted try. The spoils on a great day of rugby however went to Balbriggan winning 22 – 15.
Balbriggan also played Boyne at Under 16s and Under 18s level. The Under 16s lost in another entertaining match 28 – 22 with both sides scoring four tries. Dave Sheridan in a man of the match display scored all four of Balbriggan’s. Boyne also snuck the Under 18s match winning 10 – 5.

 

30/09/06 Balbriggan Start On Winning Note
Balbriggan’s Senior rugby side were delighted to kick off their season with a home victory against Swords. With expectations centering around improving on last season and making a real push in all competitions, the Jenkinson cup win against Swords has provided the perfect tonic for the club to build from.
For the first match of the season both sides would of surely come of the pitch sore and bruised with no quarter given for a first run. Swords applied the early pressure actually scoring a try near the sideline within the first five minutes with Balbriggan’s poor defence being the main culprit. Swords continued applying the more constructive pressure as Balbriggan continually searched for the right approach in getting back into the game. Swords were duly rewarded once again with an unconverted try following a well constructed maul and a handy 10 – 0 lead. This was the last score before the halftime break which must of come at a good time for Balbriggan as the team that took the field for the second stanza had seemingly been transformed, performing and dominating as they would of hoped.
Balbriggan, all of a sudden were dominating the contact area with more conviction. They were lead well in the pack by Damian Smith who received Balbriggan’s man of the match and Club captain Packie O’Connor. The backline started finding it’s feet as well, making numerous advantage lines and helping transform the first half erratic display into something that looked a lot more like rugby. As a result Garry Hoban struck three well hit penalties for Balbriggan which was just reward for his team’s dominance. Balbriggan were now back in it, trailing 10 – 9. With an improving kicking game Balbriggan soon capitalised following a kick, reacting the better to force a turnover which was kicked through again by Stuart Mullen who toed through again, receiving a favourable bounce to then dive over near the posts. Balbriggan now had a deserved 16 – 10 lead.
Balbriggan worked hard through the remainder of the second half to close the match out and seemed to get their just rewards when super sub Dale McAuley popped a miracle ball around the back of a defender to his wingman Michael McAuley who scooted the 20 metres to the try-line. Diving to place the ball down McAuley was ruled by the referee to of run out over the dead-ball line even though the whole area had been confused by the line markings of the adjoining football pitch. McAuley’s score would of seen Balbriggan home 23 – 10, they instead had to be satisfied with the 16 – 10 scoreline.

 

13/09/06 Balbriggan’s Youth Teams Kick Season Off 
The Balbriggan Rugby Club youth section kicked off over the weekend with the Under 16s at home to close neighbours Skerries and the Under 18s also playing at home to Dundalk.
The Under 16s which was a North East League match proved to be a very entertaining match with eight tries scored in all. With plenty of running rugby being the order of the day Balbriggan had the better of the opening exchanges applying a lot of pressure on the Skerries line which was duly rewarded with a penalty to Stephen Whelan and a 3 – 0 lead. With the ball moving from one end to the other Skerries hit back with two tries and a 12 – 3 lead. Skerries scored a third try just before the break going in at oranges leading 17 – 3. Lead strongly up front by Damian Mooney and Tony Hammond, Balbriggan were back in it with a well earnt try with Rodney Whitehouse picking the ball up following some good ruck work by the forwards and diving over. Skerries scored a fourth try to once again open up a gap over the Balbriggan boys holding a 22 – 10 lead. Balbriggan however were not done and were back in the match with Stephen Whealan crashing over carrying three defenders. This bought the score back to 22 – 15 and it was game on. Both sides lifted for the final push with Skerries delivering the final blow with a well worked move down the blindside, off a scrum. Balbriggan scored a third try on the bell to Dave Sheridan who played an outstanding match which bought the scoring to an end with Skerries running out winners 29 – 20.
In the other match played by Balbriggan over the weekend Balbriggan’s 18s had to settle for an 8 all draw with Dundalk. Balbriggan and Dundalk scored one try each with Balbriggan scoring theirs in the first half running into a strong wind. Following some excellent work from the backline who ate up the ground, recycled possession to then move the ball through the backs for a second time Balbriggan’s prop Tony Healy was on hand to recycle for a second time and to crash over. In a difficult conversion attempt Daniel McGrogan was unlucky to miss after striking the posts. Dundalk returned the favour in the second half scoring their try once again running into the wind. Both sides traded penalties locking the game up at 8 all. In what was a great open game and a good hit out hit out for both sides the result puts Balbriggan in good stead for their next match away to Boyne. Best for Balbriggan on the day was Ian Murphy who steered the ship well from outhalf.

 

30/08/06 Balbriggan Announce Two Signing As New Season Kicks Off
Balbriggan’s Senior rugby squad have announced two new signings as they look forward to their first match of the season this week. The squad which has been training three nights a week through August have been building well for their North East Jenkinson Cup match away to Dundalk on Sunday. The Dundalk match is then followed by two more Jenkinson fixtures before an internal trial match is planned for the squad on the fourth Sunday of the season. It is planned that by training three nights a week through August and rotating certain keys positions and players through the Jenkinson matches and then the trial that the club’s players will be ready first their first Leinster League match of the season. Competition through the first four weeks for selection in that match at home to Malahide should be fierce as Balbriggan hope to build on last years good finish.
With the squad building well through August it is little wonder that it’s two key signings of Michael O’Keefe from Skerries and Rory Mallon from Wexford have fitted in well. O’Keefe who stands at six feet one and plays as a flanker is expected to push for a regular starting position and as his standing in the Skerries set up would suggest it is hoped he will play a key role this season. Mallon who is adept at either Scrum-half or Fullback and has a good kicking game should also contribute greatly as his talent will go towards strengthening Balbriggan’s backline options. Following on from the Malahide match Balbriggan then play three more Leinster League games in a row which are away to Wexford and Swords and then at home to Birr. As luck has it and the way the draw has fallen, Balbriggan now have the opportunity to really hit the ground running this Leinster League season as these matches are all very winnable.
Balbriggan’s mini section had their first Sunday session on the weekend at the Ring Commons sports-ground. With big plans for the section this season the boys took part in matches amongst themselves with inter club matches beginning in the next few weeks.
Whether involved or interested in any age group of the club all members and members of the general public are invited to the Balbriggan Rugby Football Club Annual General Meeting this Wednesday at the Brackencourt Hotel from 8.00 p.m.

 

23/08/06 Youth Training In Full Swing
The Balbriggan Rugby Club Youth and Mini sections are back into full training in preparation for what should be another exciting season in Balbriggan Rugby. The Under 10s and Under 12s are currently going through their paces each Tuesday and Thursday down at Bath Road from 1pm to 3pm. The sessions are a mixture of physical activities, skill activities and team games all designed to firstly ensure the kids are having fun and then secondly as a way of getting back into the season. The sessions will continue down at Bath Road until school goes back when regular training will begin each Wednesday night in preparation for matches that begin each September. The Under 14s, who had their first session last week, are also getting together each week down at bath Road. The 14s set up at this time of year is slightly different to their younger club mates as they meet at 7pm each Wednesday for pre season training as a way of really getting the ball rolling as they build up for the season. The Under 16s and 18s are also involved in pre season training getting together twice a week on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 7pm also at Bath Road. Just like the 10s and 12s all youth teams of the Balbriggan Rugby Club will move back to their usual Wednesday night training once school goes back. If you are a little too old for any of these age groups Under 20s and Senior rugby may be for you with both groups also getting together down at Bath Road on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays each week at 7.15pm. If you are keen, experienced or otherwise or just want to give rugby a go come down to Bath Road over the next couple of weeks and join in with one of the fastest growing clubs in the area. Also feel free to ring Club Development Officer Dale McAuley on 087 2433 498 for any enquiries. If you still want to get involved in other areas of the club also feel free to ring Dale with any inquiries or come along to the club’s AGM which is scheduled for Wednesday August 30th at the Brackencourt Hotel.

 

4/08/06 Balbriggan Rugby In Full Swing For Coming Season
Balbriggan Rugby Club are in full swing at the moment during pre season gearing up for what should be an exciting year in all areas of the club. Following on from an improved season last year in the senior ranks which saw the IXV improve from winning four matches to winning eleven and the fielding of a IIXV for the first time in some years Balbriggan are looking to improve again this year in all Senior competitions. Whilst there was an improvement in the Senior ranks, competition success was achieved not once but twice at Leinster Level by Balbriggan’s Under 18s last year who won both the Leinster League First Division and the Leinster Plate. Whilst some of those lads will be going up into the Under 20s this year, the Under 18s of this coming season will be buoyed by the inclusion of several talented new comers to the side from last years Under 16s. It is hoped that competition success will once again be an achievable goal.

Balbriggan’s Senior side start this years campaign competing in the regional Jenkinson Cup which will be used as a pre cursor to the Leinster League which starts on October 1st. Winning nine of their last twelve games provided a good finish to last season as well as giving the squad a boost of enthusiasm for the coming season. When contacted Balbriggan’s re-appointed Captain Pascal O’Connor stated that he was “hoping for the side, which is young in areas, to start strong and gain some results this year as it had potential to do well in the league with winning matches being achievable with hopefully some of the older lads such as myself leading by example and offering a steady head.” O’Connor went on to say that one of his aims this year as Captain was to “keep an eye on the development of the younger lads in the club as there is a big celebration building around the place with the construction of our new facility” adding that “the whole club from Under 7s right up to Seniors are looking forward to playing on the new pitches when they are ready.”

Balbriggan’s Development Officer Dale McAuley reiterated what O’Connor had to say stating that he “was delighted with the huge strides the lads made last year after losing some earlier matches and hopefully with some of the younger guys gaining some vital experience playing alongside some of the more experienced players like our Captain our goal will be to prepare well enough each week with a view to winning.”

Whilst there is a real enthusiasm this year for the Senior side there is also a real buzz around Balbriggan with the prospect of the club fielding an Under 20s team for the second year running. One of the new comers to the Under 20s this year is Ciaran Malone who was last years successful Under 18s Captain. Malone who has played rugby with Balbriggan for his entire life and has played at representative level and has been nominated for the Fingal Independent Sports-star of the year award will be a real boost to the 20s with his leadership and playing skills which are second to none. When contacted about Malone as a prospect McAuley stated that “Over the four years I have been here Ciaran has been a standout in every match playing in the loose forwards. Even against the so called bigger clubs who have players with good reputations Ciaran has generally stood out more often than not out playing his entire loose forward opposition.” McAuley went on to finish that “Ciaran was definitely one to watch.” When contacted about the coming season with the 20s Malone stated that he was “hoping to once again be competitive and hopefully win another competition ” adding that he felt this was achievable as the “20s should once again have a strong team.”

If anyone is interested in having a look at the progress of Balbriggan’s new facility it can be found in Balrothery next to the North County Cricket Club. Also if anyone is interested in playing rugby with Balbriggan and joining an exciting year from Under 7s up to Seniors feel free to contact Dale McAuley on 0872433498.

 

 




 

 

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