UCD  0 – 13  Trinity


The J1s reserved their best performance of the season for their final and junior Colors match – against Trinity at College Park last Friday evening. Prior to this match Trinity had already been confirmed as Section B champions having scored, on average 30 points per match and were the outstanding team in the Division. In contrast, UCD had a mixed season, not helped by a slow start to their League campaign which, nevertheless, included some impressive victories.

Heavy rain, falling on a hard pitch before kick-off, meant a greasy ball and slippery underfoot conditions. Nevertheless, both sides played fast and expansive football. Tackling on both sides was awesome and open space was hard to find. In such circumstances, it was evident that the first score would be very important in determining victory. UCD had some early chances, including a penalty kick that fell short. However, just before half time Trinity pressure resulted in a penalty which was converted by Michael Boland to leave the home side leading 3-0 at the interval and this slender lead just about reflected their territorial dominance.

A minute after the restart the match was effectively won when the Trinity No. 8 broke down the blind side from a scrum and ran 40 yards to score. The conversion made the score 10 – 0. Try as they could UCD were unable to score. Simon Gillespie’s penalty kick hit the upright and individual bursts by Rory Alright, David Gilchrist, Joe McGinley, Conor Mitchell, and Stephen O’Dwyer, might have brought tries on better days. To their credit, the UCD side kept playing with purpose and determination until the end whistle. A late Trinity penalty made the final score 13 – 0 and flattered the winners. It was Trinity’s lowest winning margin all season.

The atmosphere in the UCD dressing room after the game was remarkable. Yes, the match was lost but pride was restored by the best performance of the season in front of a sizable crowd. Above all, everyone enjoyed playing in the match and agreed that it was a tremendous occasion. Trinity openly admitted that they were fortunate.

In the dressing room afterwards, lighthearted awards were made. The J1 Player of the Year went to Rory Alwright; the J1 try of the year was awarded to David Brennan; Conor Michell received an award for “being himself” throughout the season and Gavin Telford received the reminder about what he has yet to achieve! In fairness, there was considerable competition for these awards but the recipients were worthy winners and they reflect the significant contribution made by these players to the J1 squad during the season. The important role and commitment of Coaches Graham Jones and Jon O’Sullivan, and Physio, Ms. Eimear O’Brien, was collectively acknowledged. Thereafter, the squad eventually retired to “Gav’s” to bring the season to an appropriate close. Proceedings finished late, very late…….


UCD Team and (substitutes):
1. Conor Mitchell (Stefan Obradovic), 2. Gavin Telford, 3. Ger Moran (Eddie Conlan), 4. James Hayes (Stephen O’Dwyer) 5. Ger O’Rourke (Captain), 6. Paddy Conlan, 7. Nigel Mills, 8. David Gilchrist, 9. Cormac Quinn (Rob Shanley), 10. Mark Buckley, 11. Kyle Kophamel, 12. Rory Alwright, 13. Simon Gillespie, 14 David Gibbons (Joe McGinley), 15. David Nyhan.

In addition, other J1 players, who made an important contribution during the season included David Brennan, Neil Cowhey, Will Hutch, Barry Lynch and Peter Riordan. To them all, and others who helped along the way, a sincerest thanks and it is hoped that you all have good memories of the season past.

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