The Clarermorris Colts U14 team had their first home league game of the season against a tough NUIG outfit and the good news was that it started with a win.

The Claremorris boys were keen to get their season back on track after defeat last weekend. The early exchanges were tight and indeed it was the home side that seemed more nervous with some unforced errors creeping into their game. However they didn’t panic and settled in to their running game as the half progressed. This running game was very evident when after some great team play Jack Ronayne finished a fine move in the corner to get the day off to a great start. The great support from the side-line spurred on team and Phelim Brown crashed over three minutes later for try number two. Finian Brady added the extra two points with a fine kick to give his team a 12-0 lead. Confidence was now high and the team were playing some very attractive rugby. Ronan Commons showed off his speed and balance with a fine try just before the half time break as the hosts held a commanding 17-0 lead.

As the second half got under way the Claremorris subs who had just been introduced off the bench clearly had something to prove to the management team and lifted the intensity of all around them. The first score of the second half came from Adam Gilmore whose fresh legs off the bench paid dividends as he touched down for a try.

At this stage Claremorris were moving the ball with ease and Joseph McDonagh finished off some great handling to add another try. Claremorris then introduced two new debutants in Dylan Gough and Caelainn Mullee. When NUIG got their only score of the game, the Mayo men responded immediately when Phelim Browne hit straight back with a try that Brian McGuinness converted. The final score came from the captain Brian Quinn. So a moral boosting win at home, but it’s back on the road again with a tough away game at South Sligo next weekend. Training for which continues at 6.30pm on Tuesday.