The Claremorris Colts travelled to Westport full of hope for the quarter final of the Connacht U14 Cup. Things did not pan out to well as the home side held on in what was thrilling encounter.

Claremorris captain Brain Quinn won the toss and elected to play into a very strong wind in the first half. The game started with a high tempo and both of these teams were here to play rugby. First blood was dawn by the home team with their winger getting over in the corner for a try. The wind made conditions tough for the kickers and no extras added. Back came Claremorris through Brian Quinn with a fine solo try so 5-5 after just 8 minutes. Westport started to take control at the breakdown with some fine rucking and counter rucking and it was this that led to their next try to put them back in the lead. However Cealainn Mullee and Phelim Brown were taking the game to Westport with some strong running. All this hard was to no avail as the home side finished out the half with a well taken try and a 15-5 lead as the teams changed ends.

As the Colts turned around with the wind at their back they attacked with aggression and put the Covies under pressure. All this pressure told when Cealainn Mullee touched down for a five pointer. Jack Ronayne the stepped up and with the kick of the day added the two extra points to leave it 15-12.

At this stage the Colts were matching Westport at the breakdown, and were coming more and more into the game. However Westport mauled up the pitch and struck back with a seven pointer to make the score 22-12. The Colts brushed themselves down and got back to the attack game. The powerful Phelim brown drove at the line to get over and the boot of Jack Ronayne again added two more points. So 22-19 as the ref confirmed there were four minutes left to play.

For four minutes the Colts attacked with everything they had. On three occasions it was only inches that kept them from victory. But time did run out and Westport held on to win. There was a lot of disappointment at the end but the Colts now head into the Plate ,and with the League final on the horizon still have a chance for silver wear .This exciting season continues ………