Rugby Gaels make history after progressing to the final of the Kennedy Cup - The Rugby Observer

Rugby Gaels make history after progressing to the final of the Kennedy Cup

Rugby Editorial 15th Aug, 2016 Updated: 27th Oct, 2016   0

HISTORY has been made after Rugby Gaels reached the Kennedy Cup Final for the first time in their history.

Rugby recorded a two-point victory over St Joseph’s of Derby in what proved to be a tight affair at Páirc na hÉireann to book their place in the final.

Both sides traded points early on before St Joseph’s scored the first goal of the game to stretch their lead to four points.

A fine goal by Alex Baalham Donaldson mid-way through the second half cut the deficit but despite enjoying a period of possession and territory, Rugby could not put their chances it into scores.




They were made to pay as St Joseph’s scored two goals to lead at half-time by five points having scored three goals and three points (12 points) compared to Rugby’s one goal and four points (seven points).

Rugby started the second half very brightly and points from Sean Breen and Connor Shaw reduced the deficit.


Captain Lewis Fairgrieves’ goal put The Gaels back in front and Rugby recovered from a glaring miss from full forward Neil Merrigan to extend their lead with points from Pat O’Brien and Ryan Ward.

When Connor Shaw scored the Gaels’ third goal the lead was five points which led to Rugby holding onto the ball for long periods but Joesph’s managed to score a consolation goal right on the final whistle to reduce the deficit to two points.

The win puts The Gaels go through to their second final of the season which will be played next month in Birmingham.

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