Pirates Return To Winning Starts After Break

Cobh Pirates adult teams returned to competitive action after the forced lengthy break due to the weather. With both teams playing at home, the opening game saw the 2nd side take on Highfield in the league.

A youthful side, with one or two “old hand” mixed in,  took to the field in a game they needed to win to maintain their challenge for top spot in their section of the league. Trys from Stephen O Neill, Ian Jones and Peter “Brick” Ahearn with Cian Connolly adding 2 penalties and a conversion to the final tally. Hard as they tried time was against them as they fought for the bonus point try. The game finished up on a scoreline of 23-11 in favour of Pirates. This result see them 2nd in their section of the league on 15 points.

In the afternoon game the Junior 1s took on Ballincollig in a crucial game, with Pirates needing a win to push them back up the league table. The tone for game was set by Pirates in the first scrum with the front row of Jason Anglim, Dave McCaulife and Tom Keavney dominating from the off. Pirates took control in almost all parts of the field, dominating set pieces and the backline, marshalled by Robbie Doyle, running hard at the defense at every opportunity. The result of this running was evident with James Murphy scoring a hat trick of tries, with Jack Hickey and Ciarán Duignam crossing the line also.Jack also kicked 2 penalties and a conversion with Mark Chandler adding another conversion. The scoreline of 34-5 sees Pirates up to 10th in the league table now, and are on the road next Sunday to play Clonmel away, again in the league.

The only negative part of the day was a nasty injury received by Josie Hoyne in an “off the ball” incident. Cobh Pirates wish Josie a swift and speedy recovery.