Club Social

Club Social will be held on the 11th April in Springfort hall.

March 08 - Club 101 Draw Winners

March 2008:
€500 James B O'Connell
€200 Pat Cashman
€100 Eamonn Gardiner
€100 Tony Gore
€100 Joe O'Keeffe

Fun Tag Rugby Blitz

Fun Tag Rugby Blitz

Sat 10th May

In Aid of: A-Z Childrens Charity

Tag rugby is a non-contact game of passing and running, massive fun for ladies and gents.

Register now and have a great day out with friends or workmates.

Teams of 10 including a minimum of 3 females (All over 16 years)

Running order:
14.00 1st Round: Group games: Round Robin
17.00 Plate Quarter Finals and Semi Finals
18.00 Cup and Plate Finals

18.30 BBQ and Prize Giving

Entry fee of 100 EURO per team includes:

Participation in tournament
Limited number of Teams,

To register or for more details contact:
Marie(087)9052335 or Micheal(087)4124734 or Mick (087)6981453

Email: mallowrugbyclub@hotmail.com

Or check the website: www.mallowrfc.com for more info

Munster U18 Girls Launch New Season

31 March 2008, 3:07 pm
By Trish Drinan munsterrugby.ie

Munster stars Donncha O'Callaghan and Alan Quinlan were introduced recently to new Captain of the Munster Under 18 Girls team, Anna Caplice to mark the start of this season's campaign by the newest team in the Munster rugby family.
Both Donncha and Alan were quick to wish the girls the best of luck and spoke with Anna about the enjoyment they feel representing Munster.
Anna is a veteran of the inaugural season last year for Munster under 18 girls and plays with Mallow RFC, where she is also Captain. Anna said she is really looking forward to their games, as are the rest of the squad.

Munster play top English side, East Midlands in Cork on Sunday 6th April. They will follow with games against Ulster, who competed last season, and Leinster, who are lining out for the first time this season. The introduction of inter-provincial games for girls has resulted a dramatic boost in the number of girls playing rugby.

February 08 - Club 101 Draw Winners

Feb 2008:
€500 T&C Linehan
€200 Michael O'Connor
€100 Kieran Twomey
€100 Brendan Glynn
€100 Aidan Shannon

Mallow Play Host To Successful Tag Blitz

From munsterrugby.ie
20 February 2008, 2:36 pm
By John O'Neill

The biggest tag rugby blitz in many years was played in brilliant sunshine in Mallow last Wednesday.
The blitz organised by Mervyn Shorten, youth development officer for the Munster Branch, invited all the sixth class national school students to attend.
This resulted in playing twenty five matches just for fun, there were no winners and no losers, just young players, both boys and girls expressing themselves on the field. Of course, there was a little bit of rivalry between teams to hold the bragging rights for the year. However this aspect was not allowed to get out of hand as the teams were marked for sportsmanship, good behaviour on the field and skills.

The games were played at the sports ground beside St Patrick’s Boys National School and we thank them for there assistance. We also thank the referees who were on there mid term break during the week and who gave there time to be involved. Thanks go to Bill Myers, Ronan McCarthy, Chris O Regan, Michael Mc Sweeney and Aaron O' Brien for all there help on the day, everything went smoothly.

The eleven teams that participated in this massive event were from Baltydaniel National School, Rahan National School, Gael Scoil Thomais Daibhis National School, Scoil Ghobnatan Primary School, St. Patrick’s Boys National School, and the girls from the Convent Primary School.

In some cases over forty students per school were present, resulting in a number of teams from that school being represented in different sections. In all, over 200 children were active in a two and half hour period. Thanks to all teachers and Principals for there co operation on the day.

Mallow 14 - Abbeyfeale 5

Mallow moved to 5th position in the Munster Junior League Division Two table with a 14-5 home win against Abbeyfeale on Sunday 17th February. Abbeyfeale had an early chance to open the scoring but a missed penalty left Mallow off the hook for an infringement from the opening kickoff. Mallow soon settled and began to dominate the game up front. Andrew Cashman opened Mallow's account with a well taken penalty after a strong break from No.8 Cliff Cahill. Mallow's front row of Tadgh Carroll, Jerry Cronin and Jason Sheehan dominated the scrums and allowed the Mallow backs to cause huge problems for the opposition. Cashman further extended Mallow lead to 6 points with another penalty, but to Abbeyfeale's credit they continued to battle and were rewarded with a try before the break to setup an interesting second half. Half time score Mallow 6 - Abbeyfeale 5. Directly from the second half kick off Mallow capitalised on some poor defence and Andrew Cashman tagged on a further three points with another penalty. Mallow's lineout functioned extremely well with hooker Jerry Cronin and jumpers Dan McCarthy and Gavin Lynch in total control of this set piece. Midway through the second half Mallow's Michael O'Connor touched down after an excellent drive from the lineout forced the Mallow pack over the Abbeyfeale line. Cashman narrowly missed the resulting conversion but Mallow took 4 points from this game and now have 23 points with two games remaining against Ennis and old rivals Ballincollig. Mallow Team Tadgh Carroll, Jerry Cronin, Jason Sheehan, Daniel McCarthy, Gavin Lynch, Michael O'Connor, Micheal Lynch, Cliff Cahill, Kevin Twomey, Neil McSherry, Brendan O'Brien, John singleton, Andrew Cashman, Leonard Brown, Kieran O Gorman.(Subs: Donal Lucey, Liam Leahy, Ivan Bolster, Rory McSherry, George Richard)
Many thanks to the continued support that cheers on the team every Sunday.

AIB Club International Squad Announced

Article from IrishRugby.ie

Ireland will take on Scotland in the AIB Club International game in Donnybrook on Friday, February 22. Kick off is at 7.35pm.

The new Ireland Club International Management Team was named. Well-known Cork Constitution coach Brian Walsh has been named as coach of the club side. Walsh will be assisted by Brian Hyland of UCC, whilst the team will be managed by Donal Brennan.

A 44-man squad for the AIB Club International was also named. The squad was selected throughout the AIB League season to date with club coaches asked to put forward names of opposition players that had impressed them.

A five-man team of selection advisors including Stephen Rooney, Philip Danaher, Finbar Dennehy, Ciaran Smith, and Hugh McCaughey has also been monitoring games and recommending players for consideration.

The squad, which consists of 18 players from Munster clubs, 17 players from clubs in Leinster, seven players from Ulster and two from Connacht, will be reduced to a match squad of 22 players on Monday, February 11. The team to play Scotland will be confirmed in advance of the game.

AIB CLUB INTERNATIONAL SQUAD 2008

FORWARDS (23)

Ron Boucher (Lansdowne)
Rory Brosnan (Garryowen)
Ian Caldwell (Ballymena)
Ross Condren (Greystones)
Simon Crawford (Clontarf)
Matt Crockett (St. Mary's College)
Martin Gatley (Highfield)
Conor Hartigan (Highfield)
Dave Harty (Dolphin)
Hugh Hogan (St. Mary's College)
Anthony Kavanagh (Garryowen)
Adrian Kirkpatrick (Ballymena)
Alan Maher (Lansdowne)
Peter Malone (Garryowen)
Kieron Moloney (Blackrock College)
Stephen Nolan (Terenure College)
Simon Shawe (Ballymena)
Rob Sweeney (St. Mary’s College)
Merle O'Connell (Cork Constitution)
John Ed O'Connor (UL Bohemians)
Shane O'Connor (Cork Constitution)
Alex O'Sullivan (Greystones)
Damien Varley (Garryowen)

BACKS (20)
John Anderson (Malone)
John Cleary (Galwegians)
Sam Cronin (UCC)
Ruauri Cusheen (Old Belvedere)
Brian Dennehy (UCC)
Andrew Finn (Shannon)
Cronan Healy (Cork Constitution)
Derek Keane (Clontarf)
Barry Keeshan (Dolphin)
Alan Kinsley (Garryowen)
Killian Lett (UCD)
Eric Moloney (Dolphin)
Dave McAllister (Terenure College)
Richard McCarter (Dungannon)
Dave McKethney (Greystones)
Max Rantz McDonald (Clontarf)
Robbie Shawe (Galwegians)
Greg Stafford (Lansdowne)
Glen Telford (Dungannon)
Ed Torrie (UL Bohemians)
Craig Woods (Ballymena)

January 08 - Club 101 Draw Winners

Jan 2008:
€500 Cliff Cahill
€200 Ian Vaughan
€100 Sean Sherlock
€100 John Barry
€100 Jonathan Madden

December 07 - Club 101 Draw Winners

Dec 2007:
€500 Gerald O'Sullivan
€200 Johnathan Madden
€100 Michael Moynihan
€100 Mervyn Shorten
€100 Ian Vaughan

Tralee 21 - Mallow 3

Mallow travelled to Tralee on Sunday 6th January to take on the league leaders. In a tough contest for both sides, Mallow found themselves behind after five minutes when Tralee opened the scoring with a penalty. Soon after it was again Tralee to extend the lead when they scored a converted try to leave the score Tralee 10 - Mallow 0. Mallow regrouped and began to take more control of the game and dominated the closing stages of the first half. Tralee defended their line with great determination, but forced the referee to send a Tralee player to the sin bin for a repeated offence of killing the ball on the ground. Mallow further punished the offence when Andrew Cashman kicked a penalty for Mallow. Before the half time break, Tralee regained a ten point lead when they kicked a second penalty from long range. Mallow now looked forward to playing with the advantage of a strong wind in the second half, and made much of this advantage but unforced errors denied Mallow the chance of reducing the margin. Excellent performances from Mallows Jerry Cronin and Andrew Cashman just weren't enough to get Mallow the victory. On the day Mallow can be very pleased with the performance of both the forwards and backs who showed a great appetite for the physical battle that evolved, but Tralee made the most of the little chances they received and in the final minutes of the game kicked another penalty and scored a try in the dying seconds of the game to leave the final score Tralee 21- Mallow 3. Mallow Team: Neil Lucey, Jerry Cronin, Tadgh Carroll, Daniel McCarthy, Emmet Leahy, Michael O Connor, Liam Leahy, Micheal Lynch, Rory McSherry, Andrew Cashman, Leonard Brown,Brendan O'Brien, John Singleton, Pat Lynch an Neil McSherry.(Subs: Jason Sheehan, Gavin Lynch, Kevin Twomey, Hugh Kenna)

Mallow 19 - Muskerry 12

Mallow recorded a 19 - 12 win over Muskerry on Sunday 23rd of December. Tries from Leonard Brown and Liam Leahy helpded Mallow secure the victory with Andrew Cashman adding three penalties to give Mallow the valuable four points. Muskerry lead at half time by 12 points - 8. But Mallow showed great determination with total domination of the score board in the second half. Mallow Team: Neil Lucey, Jerry Cronin, Tadgh Carroll, Michael O connor, Dan McCarthy, Micheal Lynch, Liam Leahy, Cliff Cahill, Kevin Twomey, Andrew Cashman, Pat Lynch, Brendan O Brien, Rory McSherry, Leonard Brown and Kieran O'Gorman. (Subs: Gavin Lynch, Jason Sheehan, Liam O'Sullivan, John Singleton).

November 07 - Club 101 Draw Winners

Nov 2007:
€500 Gerald Sheehan
€200 Mick O'Hanlon
€100 Ian Lucey
€100 Tina O'Brien
€100 Robert Burns

Kanturk 18 - Mallow 13

Mallow travelled to Kanturk on Sunday 25th of November hoping to put the league campaign back on track. In very good conditions for rugby, Mallow set the early pace when Andrew Cashman kicked Mallow into an early lead with a penalty, Kanturk responded with a penalty of their own to level the scores with 10 minutes gone. A further penalty from Cashman edged Mallow ahead once more when Kanturk were penalised for going over the top. It was Mallow who suffered a double blow next, when the referee sent Mallow's influential prop Jerry Cronin to the sin bin for the same infringement at the other end without first giving a warning. Kanturk levelled the scores on 6-6 and further extended the lead with a converted try while Mallow played with fourteen men. At half time Mallow trailed Kanturk 13-6. On the resumption Mallow were restored to a full compliment and for long periods applied severe pressure on Kanturk’s line. Kanturk were reduced to 14 when the no.8 was sent to the sin bin for deliberately slowing Mallow's ball. Kanturk’s defence was very strong and they were determined not to concede a try to their near neighbours. Mallows failed to take advantage of Kanturk’s reduced numbers and after several attempts on Kanturk’s line were unable to add any points to the score board. Kanturk were restored to 15 and set about adding further points to their tally, soon after Kanturk went further ahead and added another try in the closing stages of the game, but Mallow refused to give up and were determined to get something from the game. A good break from the Mallow backs setup Jerry Cronin to touch down under the posts in the dying seconds, the conversion was also added by Jerry Cronin as the referee blew the final whistle. Kanturk took the four points and Mallow salvaged a losing bonus point. Final score Kanturk 18 - Mallow 13. Mallow team: Neil Lucey, Frank Thornton, Jerry Cronin, Daniel McCarthy, Gavin Lynch, Michael Lynch, Michael O’Connor, Cliff Cahill, Rory McSherry, Andrew Cashman, Brendan O Brien, Liam Leahy, Neil McSherry, Leonard Brown, Kieran O'Gorman. (Subs: Tadgh Carroll, Jason Sheehan, John O'Connor, Kevin Twomey, John Singleton)

MRFC PMF Texas Holdem Night a big success

Mallow RFC Players Medical Fund Committee would like to thank all those who participated in the Texas Holdem poker night on Friday November 23rd. These fund raising events have become a regular institution and are proving very popular with club supporters and poker enthusiasts alike. The standard of card play was once again exceptional and the final table proved thoroughly entertaining.
A field of nearly 50 entrants was whittled down to just nine at the final table with each of the top five sharing in the €1000 prize fund. The final three left to battle it out were Tralee resident Seamus Corridon , Canadian import Karl Beame, and first team scrumhalf Kevin Twomey.
The larger stacks of Kevin and Seamus eventually led to Karl’s elimination, he walked away with €125 for his troubles. The final heads up was exciting if short lived with Kevin’s “All-In” being called by chip leader Seamus, who’s hand stood up for the win. Kevin received €250 for his efforts on the night while Seamus walked away with top prize of €500.
A big thanks to Catriona and all in Monas for providing the venue. Thanks also to local Butcher Ian Lucey for his help with the Audio Visual equipment. Finally, thanks to everyone who participated for their support. All funds raised go towards covering the medical costs of the players and ensuring Mallow RFC is able to field its strongest team each week. Watch out for the next installment of Texas Holdem evenings in January 2008.

Fashion Show

Many thanks to Mary Cashman of Mallow College of Design and all the female members of the club who were involved in organising a very successful fashion show in the Hazeltree on Thur 8th of November. An electric night of fun and fashion was had by all that attended.

St Senan's 22 - Mallow 6

On Sunday 11th November, Mallow travelled to Shannon to play St Senans in their fifth league game of the season. St Senan's opened the scoring with a converted try, but mallow narrowed the gap shortly after when Andrew cashman kicked a penalty. Senans further extended their lead with another try and lead at the break St Senan's 10 - Mallow 3. On the resumption Mallow lifted their game and enjoyed much of the possession, mid way through the half Mallow were pressing for their opening try when Senans pulled further ahead with a breakaway try down the right hand side. Mallow continued to try and salvage something from the game and added another Cashman penalty to stay in range of Senan's. But with 15 minutes to go St Senans secured the bonus point when they scored their forth try. Mallow will be very dissapointed with this result as it puts increased pressure on Mallow to perform for the remaining league game if Mallow are to acheive promotion.Mallow Team Neil Lucey, Frank Thornton, Jerry Cronin, Gavin Lynch, Daniel McCarthy, Garry McSherry, Micheal O'Connor, Micheal Lynch, Rory McSherry, Amdrew Cashman, Leonard Brown, Brendan O'Brien, Neil McSherry, Pat Lynch, Kieran O'Gorman.(Subs: Tadgh Carroll, Renatas Prismatas, Ken O'Neill, Kevin Twomey, Jason Sheehan)

October 07 - Club 101 Draw Winners

Oct 2007:
€500 Michael Lucey
€200 Cliff Cahill
€100 Ray Glynn
€100 Frank Thornton
€100 Mary O'Brien

Poker Night November 23rd

The Mallow RFC Players Treatment Fund continues in its series of popular poker nights on Friday November 23rd in Mona’s Bar, Mallow. The quality of play and prize funds available at previous events in the last 18 months have proved a huge success among poker enthusiasts and club supporters alike. The funds raised from these nights have ensured the players are being kept in prime condition for their assaults on the Munster Junior 1 Division 2 League Title.

The organisers have opted for a change of venue for the latest event which will take place in Mona’s Bar (Wm. Sheehans) on Main Street, Mallow. Texas Hold’em will be the poker game of choice on the night with a prize fund of €1000 guaranteed. Experienced poker night organisers will be on hand to ensure an enjoyable night of cards for all. There will be further entertainment on the night with spot prizes for the best hands of cards. Registration will commence at 9 pm, with play to begin at 9.30 pm sharp. Admission is €25 and tickets are available now by contacting Cliff Cahill on 087-4144112 or Mickey O'Connor on 087-6981453.

Mallow 34 - Douglas 8

Mallow RFC lie third in the Munster Junior League Division 2 table with 14 points behind Old Christians and Tralee who both have 17 points. Mallow moved into third position after a bonus point win at home against Douglas on Sunday 4th of November. Try scorers included Frank Thornton, Kieran O'Gorman, Cliff Cahill and Jerry Cronin with the extra's being added by Andrew cashman who kicked all four conversions and two penalties. Douglas battled through out the contest and managed to cross the Mallow line on one occasion and also added a penalty to their total.Mallow team Neil Lucey, Frank Thornton, Jerry Cronin, Daniel McCarthy, Gavin Lynch, Michael O'Connor, Micheal Lynch, Cliff Cahill, Kevin Twomey, Andrew Cashman, Rory McSherry, Brendan O'Brien, Neil McSherry, Leonard Brown, Kieran O Gorman. (Subs: Jason Sheehan, Ken O'Neill, Michael Linehan, John Singleton, Pat Lynch).

Fermoy 10 - Mallow 21

Mallow lie 5th in the Munster Junior League table after a local derby win away to Fermoy on Sunday 21st October. In perfect conditions, the home side, Fermoy, took an early lead with a penalty in front of the posts. Mallow responded with a try from Pierce Power. Fermoy again surged forward on the Mallow line and were rewarded with a converted try after mauling from the 22. Fermoy's lead was soon cancelled out when Cashman kicked two penalties before the break to give Mallow a one point lead at half time. Fermoy 10 - Mallow 11. Mallow continued to extend the lead in the second half when Cashman kicked another penalty. Fermoy continued to put pressure on the Mallow line and refused a close range penalty, opting instead to kick for the corner. from the line out Mallow's defence was tremendous and pressure was finally relieved when fullback Kieran O Gorman intercepted a pass on the Mallow line and sprinted the length of the field to score in the corner. Cashman kicked the conversion. Mallow finished the stronger with the line out performing at it best, jumpers Dan McCarthy and Michael O'Connor and hooker Frank Thornton in top form. Mallow now look forward to facing Douglas at home on the 4th of November. Mallow Team Neil Lucey, Frank Thornton, Jerry Cronin, Daniel McCarthy, Gavin Lynch, Michael O'Connor, Micheal Lynch, Cliff Cahill, Rory McSherry, Andrew Cashman, Leonard Brown, Brendan O Brien, Pierce Power, Pat Lynch, Kieran O Gorman. (Subs: Jason Sheehan, Renatas Prismatas, Gary McSherry, Kevin Twomey).

September 07 - Club 101 Draw Winners

Sept 2007:
€500 Jimmy Fogarty
€200 Frank Thornton
€100 John Sweeney
€100 Cliff Cahill
€100 Carl Beame

August 07 - Club 101 Draw Winners

August 2007:
€500 Ger Long
€200 Eddie Collins
€100 Tadhg Carroll
€100 Noel Glynn
€100 Kevin O'Meara

July 07 - Club 101 Draw Winners

July 2007:
€500 David O'Meara
€200 Seamus Keena
€100 Brian O'Donnell
€100 Ian Lucey
€100 Eddie Collins

Mallow 34 V Newcastle-West 13

After several poor performances from Mallow in recent weeks, they eventually got their 2007/2008 season started with a bonus point win against newly promoted Newcastle West on Sunday 14th October.
An early penalty from Newcastle West gave the visitors the lead but Mallow soon stamped their authority on the game when John Singleton scored the opening try for the hosts. Andrew Cashman converted to give Mallow the edge. Mallow and Newcastle-West both scored penalties to keep the scoreboard ticking over but it was Newcastle West that took the advantage when Mallow's poor discipline allowed them to score their only try late in the first half. Mallow responded with a try from some excellent work by the Mallow pack. In the second half Mallow continued to extend their lead with try's from Cashman and scrum half Rory McSherry. Andrew Cashman had a brilliant day from the boot converting all Mallows try’s and kicking two penalties. Final score Mallow 34 - Newcastle West 13. Mallow Team. Neil Lucey, Frank Thornton, Tadgh Carroll, Ken O Neill, Daniel McCarthy, Jerry Cronin, Cliff Cahill, Michael O Connor(Captain), Rory McSherry, Andrew Cashman, Kieran O Gorman, John Singleton, Pierce Power, Brendan O Brien, James Flinn. (Subs: Donal Lucey, Jason Sheehan, Renatas Primisatas, Kevin Twomey, Leonard Brown).

June 07 - Club 101 Draw Winners

June 2007:
€500 - Colm Hickey
€200 - Mary Dowling
€100 - Kevin Nhyan
€100 - David Malony
€100 - Jim Barry

What Cobh Said....

Pirates plundered a dramatic late win over Mallow !!

Report: Kieran McKeown, Cobh Team Manager

Karl Keating secured the late injury time try to give the Pirates their 2nd Cup win within a fortnight. Despite starting promisingly and with early attempts to get the scoreboard ticking failed, it was Mallow who dominated the game for 20 minutes with two fine tries that went unconverted. They split the Cobh defense on two occasions with Mallow's No. 8 making dangerous yards time and time again. However, with Pirates scrum & line out holding firm, the first phase started to give a platform to attack. The pack organised themselves time and time again to gain many yards from well driven mauls off the line outs. On one such occasion, Dave "Bull" Mulcahy came up with ball as they crossed the Mallow try line. Moments later, a Mallow player was sin binned for repeated infringements at the maul. Colin Cronin converted a penalty that was cancelled out moments later to leave the half time score, 13 - 8 to Mallow.

The 2nd half started brightly for the Pirates, when in a moment of confusion in the Mallow defense, James Murphy dotted down to level the scores. Murph was then sin-binned for a small disagreement over a late tackle on the Mallow out-half...

Despite long periods of dominance in the final third, Mallow held firm until Brendan Ronan added a penalty on the 75 minute after the pack been held up over the line minutes before hand. As the end to normal time rung out, Ronan was blocked down as he cleared his lines, and a rather skewed deflection took the ball in field where the rushing Mallow offensive took full advantage and claimed a converted try to the wild acclaim of their supporters...

However with the scoreboard reading 20 - 16 to Mallow, the north Cork team thought they had done enough the bring the County Cup back down the N20 for the first time in over 30 years...but, Pirates had the composure and experience not to panic and they rallied up the park for what would be 3 attempts to cross the white wash, before Karl Keating crashed over in the 8th minute of injury time to bring the Cork County Cup back to Cobh for the 19th time in the club's history.

Well done and hard luck to Mallow RFC, they deserved more out of the game, but, a huge congratulations to the Pirates players, Club Coach Ian Dunne, assistants Colm MacCoitir, Billy Dillane, scrum coach, Declan Carlos, to medic, Richie McGrath, kitman, Cormac 'Mugger' Raferty, stats man, Dave Hallahan, for a job very well done over a long hard season...
Cobh Pirates :Barry Morehan, John Barry-Murphy, Mark Cronin, Colin Cronin(Cpt), James Murphy, Brendan Ronan, Noel Dunne, Dave Mulcahy, Mick Frahill, Cillian Casey, Karl Keating, Mick Keating, Fergus McCormack, Dave Mulcahy, Peter Cronin, Gavin Owens
Subs: Martin Clifford for Cronin(50), Ahern for Owens(65), John O'Malley for Frahill (60)
Not Used: Tadgh Hawes, Paul Moynihan.

County Cup Final: Cobh Pirates 21 - Mallow 20

A fantastic game of rugby was played out in Musgrave Park on Wednesday night 2nd May last between Cobh Pirates and Mallow in the final of the Cork County Cup. Top division one side Cobh Pirates were the fancied side going into this fixture but this progressing young Mallow team dominated proceedings, and should have brought home the County Cup but for an injury time try for Cobh to snatch victory in the closing seconds.
Mallow took the early lead when No 8 Cliff Cahill burst through the Cobh defence in midfield and brought play inside the Cobh 22, quick ball from the Mallow backs found outside centre Andrew Cashman who powered his way over to give Mallow the early advantage. On the 20th minute mark, an excellent lineout from hooker Frank Thornton and jumper Darryl Barry setup the move to allow first centre Aiden Bolster to crash through the Cobh defence, he was stopped just short on the five meter line, the recycled ball was passed left and found its way to winger Rory McSherry who dived over to give Mallow a 10 - 0 lead. Cobh responded with a try that came from their rolling maul off a lineout and also added a penalty to bring the score to Cobh 8 - Mallow 10. Mallow were reduced to 14 men when a repeated team offence of deliberately bringing down the maul saw winger Brendan O Brien in the sin bin for the closing stages of the first half. Mallow were punished further when they lost the other winger Rory McSherry who was sent to the sin bin for an off the ball incident. But the 13 man Mallow team held the defensive line and even managed to add points when Cashman kicked a penalty before the break to leave the half time score at Cobh 8 - Mallow 13.
Within the first three minutes of the second half Cobh had equalised the scores after Mallow's concentration dropped and thin defence allowed Cobh back into the game with an easy try. Cobh added a further penalty to take the lead for the first time in the game, Cobh 16 - Mallow 13. But this determined Mallow side continued to put pressure on the Cobh line and were rewarded when Andrew Cashman blocked down a clearing kick from Cobh, the bouncing ball surprised the Pirates defence and onrushing Mallow prop Neil Lucey was first to ground the ball under the posts. Cashman kicked the conversion and Mallow held a narrow 4 point lead, Cobh 16 - Mallow 20. Mallow continued to attack the Cobh line but a stray pass allowed Cobh into the Mallow half. Furious defence from Mallow held Cobh out with big tackles from out-half Hemi Taukiri and Captain Jerry Cronin. In injury time though Cobh's experience told and they managed to inch the ball over the Mallow line and take the lead by the narrowest of margins. Mallow regained their own kick-off with seconds to go but got no reward when Cobh eventually hacked the ball over the sideline for the referee to end the contest. Congratulations to Cobh on the victory as they retain the County Cup for the 19th time. Final score Cobh 21 – Mallow 20. Mallow Team: Neil Lucey, Frank Thornton, Gerry Cronin, Michael O'Connor, Daniel McCarthy, Trevor Costello, Darryl Barry, Cliff Cahill, Kevin Twomey, Hemi Taukiri, Rory McSherry, Aiden Bolster, Andrew Cashman, Brendan O'Brien, Neil McSherry.(Subs: Ian Vaughan, Brian Henry, Jason Sheehan, Pa Griffin, Leonard Brown).
Many thanks to the wonderful support that continued to support the team through out the 2006/2007 season, it gives a great boast to the team to hear our vocal supporters. Special thanks to the Team Management of Head Coach Hemi Taukiri and Manager John Singleton for all their efforts during the year, and to the back room of Michael Lucey, John Barry and Gerard Sheehan. The team fully appreciates the commitment and sacrifice that’s made to support the squad.

Season 06-07 101 Draw winners

April 07 - Club 101 Draw Winners
€500 - John Joyce
€200 - Joe Buckley
€100 - Eddie Collins
€100 - Ray Glynn
€100 - Michael Bucley

March 07 - Club 101 Draw Winners
€500 - Gerry Murphy
€200 - Frank Nyhan
€100 - Michael O'Donovan
€100 - Timothy O'Connor
€100 - Des Ownes

February 07 - Club 101 Draw Winners
€500 - John Sweeney
€200 - Paki Bolster
€100 - Sheamus Keena
€100 - Christy O'Connell
€100 - David Malony

January 07 - Club 101 Draw Winners
€500 - Eileen Cahill
€200 - Lar Thompson
€100 - Michael Buckley
€100 - Kevin O Meara
€100 - Frank Thornton

December 06 - Club 101 Draw Winners
€500 - Peter O Meara
€200 - Lar Thompson
€100 - Brian O Donnell
€100 - Eamonn Gardiner
€100 - Siobhan O Keeffe

November 06 - Club 101 Draw Winners
€500 - David Waters
€200 - Kevin Myres
€100 - Rory Casey
€100 - Kevin O'Meara
€100 - Eileen Cahill

October 06 - Club 101 Draw Winners
€500 - Gerald O'Sullivan
€200 - Pat O'Brien
€100 - David Waters
€100 - Mary O'Brien
€100 - Catriona Cronin

September 06 - Club 101 Draw Winners
€500 - Tony O'Connor
€200 - Noel Glynn
€100 - David Malony
€100 - Frank Nyhan
€100 - John Holt

August 06 - Club 101 Draw Winners
€500 - Ivor Dulorery
€200 - Brian O'Donnell
€100 - Kth & Connie O'Regan
€100 - Noel O'Connell
€100 - Kevin O'Meara

July 06 - Club 101 Draw Winners
€500 - John Barry
€200 - Denis O'Hanlon
€100 - Kevin Myres
€100 - Pat Cashman
€100 - Darragh Coakley

June 06 - Cub 101 Draw Winners
€500 - David Malony
€200 - Tom Dunphy
€100 - John Gardiner
€100 - Brendan O Driscoll
€100 - Jerome O Sullivan

May 06 - Club 101 Draw Winners
€500 - Kevin Nyhan
€200 - John Joyce
€100 - Mervyn Shorten
€100 - Eamonn O Donnell
€100 - Christy O Connell

April 07 - Club 101 Draw Winners

April 2007:
€500 - John Joyce
€200 - Joe Buckley
€100 - Eddie Collins
€100 - Ray Glynn
€100 - Michael Bucley

Many thanks to all who took part in the 12 month draw that started in May 2006. Again this year we are running this draw for our members. To enter the draw, please contact any member of the committee. Your support is greatly appreciated.

Mallow 14 - Bandon 13

Mallow came from behind to steal victory over Division 2 champions Bandon in Parkadillane on Sunday 16th April by the narrowest of margins. This victory has put Mallow into the final of the Cork County Cup that will see Mallow face off against Cobh pirates in the coming weeks. Mallow will count themselves lucky however after Bandon missed a last minute penalty from long range.
Mallow started this game in a very determined mood and missed two penalty opportunities to open the scoring. Bandon did however manage to kick their close range penalty and took a 3-0 lead. Mallow's opening try came after excellent linkup play from both forwards and backs. Andrew Cashman made the initial break and brought play inside Bandon’s Twenty two, Cashman popped to onrushing winger Brendan O'Brien who powered towards the Bandon five yard line, the ball was passed to second rower Dan McCarthy who recycled the ball to scrum half Kevin Twomey. A perfectly weighted pass found Player Coach Hemi Taukiri who threw a dummy pass to create the gap for himself to score. Cashman converted to give Mallow the lead for the first time. This lead was short lived however with when play from Mallow allowed Bandon to regain the lead with an intercept try for the Bandon centre. Half time score Mallow 7 - Bandon 10.
In the second half Mallow continued to control the game and dominated the lineout with Jumper Darryl Barry and hooker Frank Thornton in excellent form. Mallow welcomed back flanker Trevor Costello after a long injury who showed great hunger around the pitch, Costello was a constant thorn in Bandon’s side disrupting several Bandon attacks.
However it was Bandon that took a six point lead mid way through the second half that asked further questions of Mallow's attacking ability. With little over six minutes remaining on the clock and after sustained pressure on the Bandon line Mallow scored the winning try and conversion to take a narrow lead. Andrew Cashman kicked a clever chip over the onrushing Bandon defence, the ball took a lucky bounce off the base of the post, for Rory McSherry to collect and dive over. Mallow team :Ray Roche, Frank Thornton, Jerry Cronin, Daniel McCarthy, Michael O'Connor, Darryl Barry, Trevor Costello, Cliff Cahill, Kevin Twomey, Andrew Cashman, Brendan O'Brien, Hemi Taukiri, Pa Griffin, Rory McSherry and Neil McSherry.(Subs : Neil Lucey, Leonard Brown, Jason Sheehan, Aiden Bolster)

Four Munster Players in FIRA U18 European Champion

Four Munster players featured in the FIRA U18 Championship squad that were narrowly beaten by France in the final of the competition last weekend in Biarritz.

The players include prop Gavin Duffy (Sunday’s Well RFC), centre Danny Barnes (Tralee RFC), second row Mike Lenihan (Mallow RFC) and hooker Paul Molloy (Waterpark RFC).

The Irish Youths team defeated Georgia 26-0 in their opening game on 1st April and went on to defeat England 10-7 on April 4th, setting up a final with host country France. With the sides locked at 3-3 at half time, Ireland took the lead ten minutes into the second half with a try from Naas full back Eoghan Conron. As the game reached its closing stages, the French kept the pressure on through a succession of penalties near the Irish line. With only two minutes remaining and the championship almost in Ireland's grasp, France managed to dramatically score from close range to level the scores. The conversion was missed and the final whistle blew - ending the game in an 8-8 draw. With no extra-time in this tournament, the game went straight to penalties and in the most difficult of circumstances, Ireland were edged out 4-3.

The four were also capped for Irish Youths on the 18th March last in Glasgow against Scotland in a warm up International in preparation for the FIRA European championship.

Munster U18 Girls to play Worcester

The game against Worcester takes place in Cork Constitution FC, Temple Hill, Cork on Wednesday 4th April. Kick-off is at 6.00 pm.

Following the game against Worcester, the next match for the Munster girls will be against Ulster, in the first ever inter-provincial fixture at this age grade.

Best of luck to Mallow Girls - Anna Caplice, Mary Kate Glynn & Shona Lenihan.

Munster U18 Girls Squad
Lisa Anglim (Clonmel)
Anna Caplice (Mallow)
Niamh Coman (Thurles)
Lorraine Culbert (Clanwilliam)
Danni Delahunty (Clonmel)
Louise Egan (Clanwilliam)
Louise Fitzgerald (Clanwilliam)
Mary Rose Flanagan (Thurles)
Mary Kate Glynn (Mallow)
Ashling Hutchings (Fermoy)
Sarah Keane (Clanwilliam)
Sandra Keane (Clanwilliam)
Rachel Kelly (Thurles)
Kristina Kenneally (Thurles)
Tracy Lawlor (Shannon)
Shona Lenihan (Mallow)
Rosie Lynch (Clanwilliam)
Clare Merrigan (Clanwilliam)
Molly O’Donnell (Clonmel)
Danielle Ryan (Thurles)
Eileen Shanahan (Thurles)
Rachel Wallace (Shannon)

Kinsale 12 - Mallow 29

Mallow easily overcame the challenge of Kinsale in the first round of the Cork County Cup on Sunday 25th March. Tries from Neil McSherry, Pa Griffin, Kevin Twomey , Michael O'Connor and Cliff Cahill secured the victory. Andrew Cashman kicked two conversions. Kinsale to their credit battled hard through out the game and were rewarded with a try in the first half and a converted try in the second half. Final score Kinsale 12 – Mallow 29. Mallow now look forward to the quarter final that may take place in two weeks time. Mallow Team: Neil Lucey, Frank Thornton, Gerry Cronin, Michael O'Connor, Daniel McCarthy, Norman Bolster, Darryl Barry, Cliff Cahill, Kevin Twomey, Hemi Taukiri, Rory McSherry, Andrew Cashman, Aiden Bolster, Brendan O'Brien, Neil McSherry. (Subs: Pa Griffin, Bothwell, Brian Daly, Leonard Brown and Donal Lucey).

Under 18 Club Squad for FIRA Tournament

(From www.irishRugby.ie website)

The Ireland Under 18 Club side that will take part in the 7th FIRA - AER U18 European Championships in Dax, France from March 30th – April 8th has been named. Ireland is seeded fourth in the eight team competition and will play Georgia in their first match on Sunday, 1st April. Mallow's Michael Lenihan has been selected in the 26 man squad. Everyone in Mallow RFC wishes Michael the very best in the upcoming competition.

The Ireland U18 Clubs squad is as follows:

Forwards (14):
Charlie Armstrong (Penzance)
Liam Carpenter (Westport)
John Dever (Tallaght)
Sean Dougall (NewcastleFalcons)
Gavin Duffy (Sundays Well)
Jason East (Sligo)
Mark Flanagan (Mullingar)
Conor Higgins (Ballinasloe)
Michael Lenihan (Mallow)
Paul Molloy (Waterpark)
Dermot Murphy (Galwegians)
Joe MacManus (LondonIrish)
Seamus McKimm (RGS High Wycombe)
James Robinson (Corinthians)

Backs (12):
Danny Barnes (Tralee)
Colm Brady (Kilkenny)
Eoghan Conran (Naas)
Niall Earls (Wicklow)
Charlie Ingall (LondonWasps)
Adam Kennedy (Buccaneers)
David McIlwaine (Larne)
Charlie Mulchrone (St.AmbroseCollege)
John O’Brien (Connemarra)
Aengus O’Connell (Corinthians)
Eamon Sheridan (Navan) Captain
Rory Stynes (Carlow)


2007 FIRA U18 Championships Competition seeding
1 – England
2 – France
3 – Italy
4 – Ireland
5 – Georgia
6 – Russia
7 – Romania
8 – Portugal

For more on the competition - http://www.fira-aer-rugby.com/

March 07 - Club 101 Draw Winners

March 2007:
€500 - Gerry Murphy
€200 - Frank Nyhan
€100 - Michael O'Donovan
€100 - Timothy O'Connor
€100 - Des Ownes

Mallow 13 - Coleraine 29

The 2007 AIB All Ireland Junior Cup decider will take place at Athlone's Dubarry Park on Saturday, April 14 (kick-off 2pm), after Coleraine and Seapoint were victorious over Munster opposition.

David Andrews kicked five penalties and converted Gareth Cochrane's two tries as Coleraine came away from Mallow with a 29-13 semi-final success.

The Cork side bagged a try through Des Golden, while Andrew Cashman finished with a personal tally of eight points - kicking two penalties and a conversion.

Seapoint just had the edge on Crosshaven at Myrtleville Cross, with the Dubliners running out 15-8 winners. Back rowers Stephen Walsh and Ben Focas scored a try apiece for the pre-tournament favourites, while Brian Keegan tagged on a penalty and a conversion.

Conor Deane scored all of Crosshaven's points with a try and penalty.

Coleraine will be hoping to keep the AIB Junior Cup north of the border - Magherafelt side Rainey Old Boys won last year's inaugural tournament, beating Youghal 27-5 in the final at Lansdowne Road.

March Poker Night - A great success

Mallow RFC Injured Players Fund Committee would like to thank all those who participated in the Texas Holdem poker night on Friday March 9th. These fund raising events have become a regular institution and are proving very popular with club supporters and poker enthusiasts alike. The standard of card play was once again exceptional and the final table proved thoroughly entertaining.
A field of over 50 entrants was whittled down to just nine at the final table with each of the top eight sharing in the €1000 prize fund. Early victims to some strong play were Conor Willis, Darragh O Sullivan, Niall Moriarty and Shane Coughlan. First team winger, Brendan O Brien, was chip leader heading into the final four. Next to leave the table were Yvonne Keane and Stephen Nolan receiving €75 and €125 respectively.
This left chip leader, Brendan and local butcher and business man Ian Lucey to fight it out in heads up. The deciding hand was to prove very dramatic with a full house beating a straight on the river. This saw Brendan O Brien take a well deserved first prize of €500 for some strong play on the night. Ian was left with the consolation of €200 for his efforts.
Once again thanks to all who participated for their support. All funds raised go towards covering the medical costs of the players and ensuring Mallow RFC is able to field its strongest team each week. Watch out for the next installment of Texas Holdem evenings in late April.

Tralee 17 – Mallow 9

Mallow lost their last game in the league to a hungrier Tralee team fighting to stay out of relegation, Mallow managed to take a 6 - 3 lead after 20 minutes but Tralee responded with a try and lead by 8 - 6 at the break. In very unsuitable weather condition's for rugby, Tralee continued to pressurise the Mallow defence, poor discipline from Mallow allowed Tralee to further extent the lead with a succession of penalties and two sin bins for Mallow. Mallow did however manage to add another three points from the boot of Andrew Cashman, and showed some positive signs when they dominated the closing 15 minutes of the game. Final score Tralee 17 – Mallow 9. This was a disappointing performance from Mallow who will look to next weeks County Cup game against Kinsale to get back on track before the All Ireland semi final against Coleraine. Mallow Team:Ray Roche, Frank Thornton, Neil Lucey, Michael O'Connor, Darryl Barry, Norman Bolster, Jason Sheehan, Cliff Cahill, Kevin Twomey, Andrew Cashman, Rory McSherry, Hemi Taukiri, Des Golden, Brendan O Brien, Neil McSherry.(Subs : Ivan Bolster, Tadhg Carroll, Dan McCarthy, Pa Griffin, Aiden Bolster).

Guess the Score Winner

Winner: Ray Roche
Predicted Score: Ireland 45 - England 24

Special mention must go to Will Bruton/Ger Mallen for their prediction of
Ireland 0 - England 300.

Many thanks to John Singleton for organising this competition.

February 07 - Club 101 Draw Winners

February 2007:
€500 - John Sweeney
€200 - Paki Bolster
€100 - Sheamus Keena
€100 - Christy O'Connell
€100 - David Malony

Physical Sports Shop Mallow

Physical Sports Shop Mallow now have the following Mallow RFC items in stock.

Club Shorts €22
Club Socks €6.50

If you require Mallow RFC club jerseys please e-mail Robert Burns (Physical) at physicalgroup@eircom.net

Promotion dream ends

Mallow's promotion hopes rested on the results of other games in the 2nd division of the Munster Junior league this weekend 25th of February. It now looks likely that Mallow will finish 4th/5th in the league table after win's for both Newport and Muskerry at the weekend.
Muskerry had a narrow victory over Bandon on a score line of Muskerry 11 - Bandon 10. This result was not enought to put Muskerry into the 1st division, Bandon however have won the division 2 league and promotion to the first division having lost their unbeaten record to Muskerry on the final day.
Newport's victory over Douglas secured the second place stop in division 2. This win has gained Newport promotion to the first division for next season, final score Newport 13 - Douglas 0.
In other results, Fermoy and Newcastlewest will lock horns with Mallow next season as both sides are guaranteed promotion from the 3rd division next season. Mallow's bogey team Crosshaven are joint top of Division 1 with Cobh Pirates after a 22 point - 7 point victory over Richmond in Myrtleville. A play off maybe required to seperate the sides to see who represents munster in the Round Robin play off for AIL Senior status next season.

Congratulations

To Neil and Tina on the news of there engagement. All players and fans would like to extend best wishes and a happy future to both.

Mallow 7 - Crosshaven 19

Played 3; lost 3; this is what Mallow's record looks like in match's between Mallow and Crosshaven over the last two seasons. On this occasion Mallow are knocked out of the Munster Junior Cup at the last 16 stage.
Mallow controlled the game for long periods but failed to put points on the scoreboard, this was mainly due to Crosshaven?s well disciplined defence.
Crosshaven opened the scoring with a penalty after fifteen minutes on their first attack in the Mallow half. Shortly after Andrew Cashman crossed the Crosshaven line, Cashman also converted to give Mallow the advantage. Crosshaven reduced the margin to one point just before the break to leave the half time score Mallow 7 - Crosshaven 6. The second half was much like the first half but some very close calls by Referee Shane Covney prevented Mallow from further increasing their advantage. Instead Crosshaven kicked their third penalty to take a two point lead, and soon after kicked a fourth penalty to bring the score to Mallow 7 - Crosshaven 12. Mallow pressed hard for the winning score but two consecutive sin bin's forced Mallow to play with 14 men for almost 20 minutes. Crosshaven's rolling maul was the only area that they overpowered Mallow and this proved too much for the 14 man Mallow side, Crosshaven took a comfortable 19 - 7 lead into the last ten minutes of the game. In the closing stages the large vocal crowd could not inspire the Mallow lads to victory, final Score Mallow 7 - Crosshaven 19. Mallow Team :Tadgh Carroll, Frank Thornton, Ray Roche, Neil Lucey, Michael O Connor, Darryl Barry, Norman Bolster, Gerry Cronin, Kevin Twomey, Andrew Cashman, Rory McSherry, Hemi Taukiri, Pat O Riordan, Brendan O Brien, Des Golden.(Subs: Ivan Bolster, Clive Kerrisk, Jason Sheehan, Pa Griffin, Dan McCarthy).

AIB Cup: Semi Final Draws

The draws took place at the Berkeley Court Hotel earlier today and the teams were drawn by IRFU President Peter Boyle and IRFU Senior Vice President Der Healy.

The competition brings together both senior and junior clubs from all four provinces that were put forward for participation based on their performances in the respective provincial cup and league competitions.

In the AIB Cup Ulster's Belfast Harlequins have been drawn at home again. Their opponents are reigning AIB League Champions Shannon. Clonakilty, the only Division Two side in the competition, have been drawn away to Garryowen.

In the AIB Junior Cup the two remaining Munster clubs, Mallow and Crosshaven, have been drawn at home. They will play Ulster side Coleraine and Leinster side Seapoint respectively.

AIB Cup Semi Final Draw
Belfast Harlequins V Shannon
Garryowen V Clonakilty
Ties will be played on Saturday March 31st

AIB Junior Cup Semi Final Draw
Mallow V Coleraine
Crosshaven V Seapoint
Ties to be played on Saturday March 17th

Article from Dromore website: Match report

An All Ireland Junior Cup semi final place slipped from the grasp of the JP Corry Dromore 1 st XV on Saturday as a penalty conceded in the final few minutes of the game allowed Mallow to claim victory by 27 points to 25.

Mallow arrived in Dromore in determined mood and brought with them a terrific and friendly crowd of supporters who were welcomed with open arms to the club and who roared their team on throughout the game. Their support, no doubt, contributed to their teams success on the pitch and was greatly appreciated by the players who at the end of the hard fought game thanked them with ?three cheers?

From the kick off Dromore pressed into Mallow territory and for the opening minutes seemed to be having the better of the exchanges without creating any real scoring opportunities and seeing Mallow relieve the pressure when Dromore were penalised.

They then came into their own and opened the scoring after ten minutes. A ruck in midfield provided the opening when the ball was hacked forward and expertly re-gathered for Mallow to sprint clear between the posts. The successful conversion which went over the bar via the left hand upright opened up a seven point advantage.

The second try of the game came the way of Dromore. A kick ahead, designed to relieve the pressure on the Mallow defence was charged down allowing Dromore to seize the ball and make their way forward where Mark Crothers took possession to outpace the defence and score wide out on the left.

With nearly thirty minutes on the clock Dromore edged into the lead. A lineout was won by Dromore but the ball went to ground and was hacked forward by a Mallow boot, Doak picked up and sprinted forward outsmarting and outpacing the defence to run clear between the uprights. James Cleland added the extra points.

On the stroke of half time Mallow attacked the line but the attack had seemingly been thwarted when Dromore were awarded a scrummage. The ball shot out of the scrum and the astute Mallow scrum half pounced on the loose ball to score. The extra points once more put Mallow in front.

Within five minutes of the restart Mallow increased their advantage. This time by way of a penalty to increase the advantage to five points.

Mallow once again attacked Dromore but a kick charged down allowed Doak to hack the ball forward a couple of times but as he approached the line the final kick proved to be too strong and he watched in agony as the ball went dead.

The sides were once more on level terms when Dromore won a lineout five meters out and the pack surged forward to recycle possession to Rory Pepper who dozed aside the opposition to ground the ball over the Mallow line.

The final result was still in doubt but Mallow eased in front once more with a try and conversion but Dromore replied with a Cleland penalty to take the game into the final minutes with only four points separating the sides.

Dromore seemed to have clinched the victory when Johnny Penny seized Dromore's fourth try. The pack surged towards the line feeding the ball through a number of pairs of hands before another blind side surge allowed Penny to take control. He, with typical determination and power, ploughed his way over the line to leave Dromore in front by a single point.

With only two minutes remaining Mallow demonstrated their desire to win making their way to the Dromore 22. Here Dromore conceded a penalty and were forced to watch as the ball sailed straight and true over the bar to leave Mallow with a deserved place in the semi final.

see Dromore RFC Website for full report with pictures.

AIB Junior Cup: Dromore 25 - Mallow 27

Mallow claimed a place in the Semi Final of the AIB All Ireland Junior Cup with a narrow two point victory over Co. Down opposition Dromore on Saturday Feb 10th. Andrew Cashman put Mallow into the Semi's when he kicked a difficult penalty with three minutes remaining.
Dromore dominated the early exchanges as Mallow struggled to keep up with the high tempo start. Mallow were reduced to 14 men after seven minutes when the referee sent Hemi Taukiri to the sin bin after warning Mallow about repeated infringements at the break down. But Dromore failed to convert their good territorial position to points as Mallow defended ferociously forcing Dromore to make mistakes thus allowing Mallow to bring play back to half way. With ten minutes gone, Mallow opened the scoring when Mallow's No 8, Cliff Cahill broke through the centre, but was stopped just short of the Dromore line, Rory McSherry's support run was well timed as he picked the ball from the ruck and touched down under the posts, Cashman converted to give Mallow a 7 - 0 lead. The next score came on the 20th minute when Dromore charged down a relieving kick from Mallow's 22. Dromore's Mark Crothers was quickest to react when he collected the ball to score in the corner. Trailing by two points Dromore continued in search of the score to take the lead. On the half hour mark Dromore's out-half Neil Doak side stepped the on-rushing Mallow defence to score between the posts, James Cleland converted to edge Dromore ahead 12 - 7.
Just before the break, Mallow's scrum half Kevin Twomey regained the lead for Mallow after the ball spilled out of the Dromore scrum to dive in close to the posts, Again Cashman converted to give Mallow a two point margin. Half time score Dromore 12 - Mallow 14.
Mallow began the second half with great determination and were rewarded when Cashman kicked a penalty against the wind to give Mallow a five point lead. Dromore threw everything at the Mallow defence for long periods, eventually the equalizing try came when Dromore's Rory Pepper powered his way over the Mallow try line after multiple phases from the Dromore pack, this levelled the score at 17 - 17.
In front of a large vocal travelling support from Mallow, the Mallow lads again edged ahead when Des Golden was put into space by Mallow Captain Jerry Cronin. Cashman converted to take Mallow seven ahead. A penalty for Dromore reduced the margin to 4 points. Then Dromore scored their 4th try and lead by a single point. But this was Mallows day and Cashman stole the lead for Mallow once again when he kicked a difficult penalty with three minutes remaining. Dromore had one more opportunity to win the game with a penalty in the dying seconds of the game but the distance proved too much for Dromore's kicker. Final Score Dromore 25 - Mallow 27. Mallow team: Tadgh Carroll, Frank Thornton, Jerry Cronin, Neil Lucey, Michael O'Connor, Norman Bolster, Jason Sheehan, Cliff Cahill, Kevin Twomey, Hemi Taukiri, Brendan O Brien, Andrew Cashman, Des Golden, Rory McSherry, Neil McSherry.(Subs: Patrick O Riordan, Daniel McCarthy, Ben Shannon, Ivan Bolster and Brian Daly).
Many thanks to the large number of supporters that travelled to Dromore, who were given a fantastic reception by Dromore RFC. Special thanks to Luceys Butchers, O'Sullivan Waters Solicitors, AIB Mallow and Danny McAuliffe Sports injury clinic for the generous sponsorship towards the trip to Co. Down. And finally to the team management for ensuring that everything ran so smoothly.

News article from Dromore's Website.

Dromore V Mallow Preview
The A.I.B. All Ireland Junior cup quarter final against Mallow loom large on the horizon for the JP Corry Dromore 1 st XV.

Having gathered in the league points and succumbed to a narrow defeat at the hands of league leaders Armagh during the last week Dromore will be pleased that the pressure of the league battles has been lifted for this weekend and will welcome with open arms their visitors from the province of Munster.

Mallow is situated north of Cork City deep in the Balckwater Valley . Improvements in the infrastructure have led to the town, like Dromore, becoming satellite town for the major city close by.

The rugby club have so far this season, as far as can be ascertained. Played fifteen games and have only conceded defeat on four occasions. This proud record will give rise to some concern in the Dromore ranks and Mallow will certainly give Dromore some food for thought during the lead up to the game.

Club President Gary Russell is looking forward to meeting the team and their supporters. ?It is always great when we can welcome visitors to Dromore especially when it is a club that we have never played before. Mallow will receive a warm welcome here after their journey which we understand is in excess of 230 miles. We hope to show them that we can not only play rugby but also provide hospitality which is first class. We have invited them to a pre-match lunch and so far they have indicated that around 25 people hope to travel north for the game on Saturday and then join the other 82,000 people at Croke Park for the Ireland England match the following day?.

On the playing front Dromore appeared to come through last weeks battles unscathed so the side selected may well be the same as the side which defeated Bangor last Saturday.

Team manager Billy Savage is looking forward with anticipation to the match ?the side showed their determination against both Armagh and Bangor and having played both these vital games within the space of a few days they will be pleased that there are no mid week fixtures this week. This will give them some time to recover from their efforts and should mean that they are ready, physically and mentally, for this Cup tie. Mallow will be a good side and if we are to come out on top an excellent performance will be needed. Here's hoping that the players who have worked so hard this season can put us through to the semi finals?.

Mallow 29 - Sundays Well 14

Mallow's first XV booked their place in the last 16 of the Munster Junior Cup with a comfortable victory over Sunday's Well at the weekend. In good conditions Mallow enjoyed most of the possession, and look forward now to the AIB Junior Cup Quarter Final against Northern Ireland opposition Dromore next Saturday.
Mallow opened the scoring with an Andrew Cashman penalty in the first five minutes. Mallow's pack welcomed back Neil Lucey to the second row and this extra strenght secured the terriority to allow Mallow's back's to attack. Hemi Taukiri's strong running caused the Well's defence major problem's in the center of the field, with ten minutes gone Taukiri broke two tackles and touched down under the posts. Cashman converted to give Mallow a 10 - 0 lead. Two mistakes from Mallow allowed Sundays Well their oppurtunities, which they took to score two converted tries. The first was scored mid-way through the first half to bring Sundays well within three points of Mallow. Mallow regained the advantage before half time when Pat O'Riordan got Mallos second try in the right corner. Half time score Mallow 15 - Sundays Well 7.
Des Golden got Mallow's third try after Mallow's pack retained good possesion in the Well's half of the field. Cashman converted and finished off Mallow's scoring when he intercepted in the middle of the field and converteed his own try. But what come's around goes around and Sundays well had some good luck also when they intercepted on their own line and ran the lenght of the field to finish the game Mallow 29 - Sundays Well 14. Mallow Team: Ray Roche, Frank Thornton, Jerry Cronin, Neil Lucey, Michael O'Connor, Jason Sheehan, Cliff Cahill, Daryll Barry, Kevin Twomey, Rory McSherry, Hemi Taukiri, Anrew Cashman, Des Golden, Brendan O Brien, Neil McSherry. (Subs : Pat O Riordan, Pa Griffin, Daniel McCarthy, Brian Daly, Brian Henry.)

January 07 - Club 101 Draw Winners

January 2007:
?500 - Eileen Cahill
?200 - Lar Thompson
?100 - Michael Buckley
?100 - Kevin O Meara
?100 - Frank Thornton

Mallow 33 - Kinsale 3

Mallow's 2nd XV enjoyed an impressive victory over Kinsale in the South Munster Junior 4 League on Sunday 28th Janurary in Parkadillane. A brace of tries from Brian Henry and Brian Daly set the tone for the afternoon game, Pa Griffin also scored with Patrick O'Riordan kicking 4 conversions. Impressive performances from Brian Henry and Daniel McCarthy in the forwards kept Kinsale on the back foot for long periods. In the backs, outhalf Pat O'Riordan and center Pa Griffin caused trouble for the Kinsale backs with their powerful breaks. Mallow TeamJohn Barry, Tony Gore, Ian Vaughan, Rob Tyrrell, Daniel MCCarthy, Steven Nolan, Graham Kelly, Brian Henry, Brian O'Connor, Pat O Riordan, Conor O Donovan, Pa Griffin, Aidan Buckley, Ronan Boylan.

AIB CUP Travel & Accommodation Info

Suggested Accommodation

Recommended & Team Hotel
Carrickdale Hotel between Dundalk and the border.
www.carrickdale.com
Tel: 049-9371397

A discounted rate for Mallow RFC is available at ?50 pps sharing however this has to be paid to Brendan O?Brien by Friday 2nd at the latest. People booking with the hotel directly will incur an additional charge.

Brendan O?Brien can be contacted at 086-3930560.

Depending on numbers it is suggested we will book a bus to transfer supporters to Dromore & return later that evening to team hotel (approximate departure 11-45am from hotel ? see below)

This is a large hotel with full leisure facilities & nightclub.

Banbridge
Downshire Arms Hotel
www.downshirearmshotel.com

Belmont Hotel
www.the-belmont-hotel.com

Please note that there is no suitable accommodation in Dromore & the nearest hotels are in Banbridge (each of these only have a very limited number of rooms)

Match Day
Whilst Kick Off time is to be confirmed (probably 2.30pm for a cup match) all supporters are requested to be at Dromore RFC clubhouse early as the bar will be open & there is possibly a pre-match lunch for all travelling supporters. Dromore RFC have also arranged post match entertainment in their clubhouse.

Thank you to all who have sponsored this trip. Your support is appreciated. This is en exciting but very expensive undertaking for the club & any additional sponsorship would be most welcome.

Directions to Dromore RFC

Information for Mallow RFC supporters travelling to Dromore RFC (Saturday 10th February).

Dromore RFC,
Barban Hill,
Dromore,
Co Down BT25 1PR
www.dromorerfc.co.uk

Directions to Dromore RFC
Dromore is approx 6 miles north of Banbridge.

Stay on A1 dual carriageway until 1st signpost turning on the right to Dromore (You will see quite a large car showroom called Thompsons on the left hand side of carriageway at this point).

Having turned right across the carriageway, Barban Hill is the first road on the right (after a small church) and only 100 yards from the carriageway.

The club is at the top of this hill, just another 200 yards on left.

Junior Cup: Castleisland 7 - Mallow 36

Mallow's comfortable win over Castleisland earned them a home draw against Sunday's Well in the 2nd round of the Heineken Junior Challenge Cup. Andrew cashman opened the scoring after 5 minutes with a penalty. Shortly after Hemi Taukiri setup Neil McSherry for his first try of the day, a neat little grubber kick behind the defence allowed McSherry to race onto the ball and touch down just right of the posts, Cashman converted to give Mallow a 10 - 0 lead. Further tries from Des Golden and another from Neil McSherry improved Mallows score line to Mallow 22 - Castleisland 0.
Mallow's pack welcomed the return of Frank Thornton to hooker after injury; other inclusions included Jason Sheehan getting his first start, who played an excellent game at wing forward. As ever Captain Jerry Cronin lead by example along with Mallow's Castleislander Cliff Cahill at No 8.
In the second half, Mallow scored two more converted tries when Des Golden's deceptive running eluded the Castleisland defence and scored under the posts. Neil McSherry got his hat-trick of scores when he ran in from half way. Mallow now lead 36 - Castleisland 0. But Castleisland to there credit did not give up and scored a converted try after some direct forward play. Final score: Castleisland 7 - Mallow 36. Mallow Team : Ray Roche, Frank Thornton, Jerry Cronin. Michael O'Connor, Darryl Barry, Jason Sheehan, Cliff Cahill, Norman Bolster, Rory McSherry, Hemi Taukiri, Brendan O Brien, Andrew Cashman, Des Golden, Aiden Bolster, Neil McSherry.(Subs: Pat O Riordan, Brian O'Connor, Brian Daly, Ivan Bolster, Daniel McCarthy.)

The Corkman Sports Stars awards

THE seventh annual Corkman Sports Stars awards ceremony will take place at Springfort Hall, Mallow on Friday, February 9 when 16 sports men, women and teams will be honoured for top class achievements in 2006.
Once again recognising the staggering array of sporting talent Cork has to offer, Sports Star awards will be presented to county, Munster, national and world champions across 13 different disciplines. This has been the case since the inception of The Corkman awards where each year has thrown up a fresh crop of Cork sporting stars.

Throughout 2006, the team of seven judges, predominantly made up of local sports writers, have kept eagle eyes on established and emerging sports people drawn from The Corkman circulation areas of Avondhu, Duhallow and Muskerry. ?Really, there are enough and sufficient quality of sports stars in these areas to select an entirely different crop of award winners and still do Cork proud,? said Corkman editor Brendan Malone.

?What it comes down to is honouring the achievements of local people across a very broad range of sports and at very high levels of competition in their individual disciplines.

?I think the winners selected this year reflect the greatest sporting achievements we have seen locally in 2006 as well as honouring people, such as managers and sports officials, who make huge contributions to sport.?

Uniquely, this year the Tom Mills Hall of Fame award winner is still actually competing in his sport. 2007 marks Millstreet runner Willie Neenan?s 56th year in athletics as he now pounds the track in the veteran class.

The other award winners include Irish champions, the Charleville Pierce Purcell Shield golf team; Munster junior hurling champions Kilworth; the Mallow rugby squad who are twice Martin O?Sullivan Cup and divisional champions; world silver medal rower Gearoid Towey, Fermoy; world handball champion Tony Healy, Ballydesmond; Curraheen Park?s leading trainer (three years in a row) John Lenihan, Blarney; camogie All-Star Anna Geary, Milford; dual All Star Rena Buckley, Donoughmore; national basketball title winner Marie Breen, Mallow; leading amateur jockey Richard Harding, Castletownroche; National Forestry Rally Championship winner Eoin Murphy, Ovens.

The highly respected referee, coach and administrator John O?Mahony, Kanturk, is to receive the Sports Official award while world boccia silver medallist Johnny Cronin, Mallow, gets the Special Achievement award.

Meanwhile, the judges hit a deadlock trying to choose the manager?s award and eventually decided to double it up and selected both Cork senior ladies football manager Mary Collins, Rockchapel and Cork intermediate hurling manager John Keane, Liscarroll.

All that remains is to choose the John Joe Brosnan Supreme Sports Star on the night.

As ever, a glittering night is in prospect at the awards ceremony in Springfort Hall on February 9, with tickets on sale via The Corkman offices in Mallow and Fermoy, and from judging panel chairman Liam Ware in Mallow

Michael Linehan - Munster Youths

Article from munsterrugby.ie By Trish Drinan
17 January 2007, 5:43 pm

Munster Youths Team to Face Leinster on Saturday
The Munster U18 Youths team to face Leinster in the semi final of the Youth Interprovincials has been named ahead of their clash on Saturday next in Portlaoise (kick off 12 midday)

15. Owen Rees (Highfield)
14. Paul Denn (Clonmel)
13. Danny Barnes (Tralee)
12. James Deasy (Clonakilty)
11. Denis O'Sullivan (Muskerry)
10. Colm Downs (Newcastle West)
09. Danny Fogarty (Nenagh)
08. Leon Tolan (Kilfeacle)
07. Paddy Cleary (Bruff)
06. Padraig Cleary (Bruff)
05. Michael Linehan (Mallow)
04. Jerry Harney (Waterpark)
03. Sean O'Mahony (Tralee)
02. Paul Malloy (Waterpark)
01. Gavin Duffy - Capt. (Sundays Well)

REPLACEMENTS:
16 Graham Bolger (Bruff).
17. Peter O'Connor (Nenagh)
18. Timmy Cremin (Bruff)
19. Dave McCormack (Clanwilliam)
20. Chris O'Sullivan (Killorglin)
21. Greg Carroll (Clonmel)
22. Declan Bannon (Young Munster)

Historic Win for Mallow U18's Women's Team

Article from Munsterrugby.ie
16 January 2007 By Trish Drinan

Last Saturday was a momentous occasion for Mallow U18 ladies rugby team, when they travelled to Fermoy to play a formidable Dingle outfit, who at present, head up the U18 league.
Dingle travelled with over sixty girls to play a number of different age groups against Fermoy Ladies Rugby Club. As Fermoy was unable to fulfil the senior fixture due to not having sufficient numbers, Mallow Ladies took up the top match. The Mallow girls have been training very conscientiously in the town park for over a month. The numbers in attendance have been quite impressive over this period, with over thirty-four players at every session.

On Saturday the combination of hard work, positive attitude and self belief came together, when they took on the fancied Dingle side and beat them by the one try and a conversion. The atrocious weather conditions did nothing to ensure an exciting game but the Mallow Ladies have seen some bad weather at training and were really excited about putting in a fine performance. Mallow started as they intended to continue and tried to play an open expansive game relied on their superior handling skills. This worked for a good part of the game until weather conditions deteriorated and Mallow had to change tactics.

Mallow Ladies started in a blaze putting Dingle under great pressure and keeping them in their own half for most of the first half. The Mallow halfbacks dictated the whole game with Kate O?Regan magnificent at scrum half and Emma Nyhan at out half. Emma, who captained the team for the day, ran a lot of good ball out of defence and in the second half kicked intelligently to the corners. The two centres put in a sterling performance, Jenny Luddy was the best handler of a ball on the field while Robyn Wallace made some great ground at outside centre. The wingers Mary Kate Glynn and Anita Kelleher were outstanding in attack and defence. It was the former, Mary Kate Glynn, daughter of Shannon legend Noel Glynn, who ran onto a great pass from Robyn Wallace and having beaten her opposite number there was no doubt. Mary Kate ran fifty yards to score under the posts foe Emma Nyhan to convert. At full back Karen O?Halloran had a great game and ran a lot of ball back against the run of play, she gained a lot of hard yards for her team when they needed it most.

As they say forwards win games, backs by how much. This was most definitely a truism for Saturday game. Fiona O?Flynn and Anna Caplice gave the impression they had been playing the game for years. Fiona O?Flynn was hardly recognisable after the match she tackled so much, Anna Caplice had to retire half way through the second half with a dead leg. The foundation and example she had set before coming off was instrumental in the final result. The front row was not an easy place to be in these weather conditions but Sinead Cremin, Ruth Sweeney and Rebecca Luddy were fantastic in all aspects of play. Ruth Sweeney popped a lot of ball from the floor to Sinead and Rebecca to carry forward and set up some great rucks and mauls giving good possession to the back line to use. The line outs were Mallow?s strongest part of their game, despite the fact that Dingle were lifting all their jumpers the Mallow girls were throwing shorter balls to Sinead Cremin and Catriona Kelleher who caught everything.

The back row were everywhere and they needed to be as the Dingle half back pairing were lightning on legs. Fiona O?Flynn on the blind side only got caught once and hit everything that moved from there on. Her partnership of Jessica Hurell at no8 and Clara O?Keeffe at open side were on fire and proved to be a great partnership.

They were instrumental in stopping a lot of the Dingle attacks. Clara O?Keeffe was soon to be replaced through injury for Siobhan Lane who also had a solid game. Aisling Glynn came on at out half as a replacement for Anita Kelleher and had a tremendous debut despite her younger years. On dry and solid conditions, Aisling?s footwork could have seen her make a number of clean breaks, but underfoot conditions did not help.

The final whistle did not come half soon enough as there was some tired legs out there, but when it did the Mallow Ladies knew what it was like to win there first outing of their career. There will more days like this when one considers the wealth of talent that could not travel for many reasons. At least ten players were missing from this very fine performance but the players that played will be difficult to dislodge. Mallow Team: Karen O?Halloran, Anita Kelleher, Robyn Wallace, Jenny Luddy, Mary Kate Glynn, Emma Nyhan, [Captain] Kate O?Regan, Sinead Cremin [V.Captain] Ruth Sweeney, Rebecca Luddy, Anna Caplice, Catriona O?Sullivan, Fiona O?Flynn, Jessica Hurell, Clara O?Keeffe,
Subs: Aisling Glynn, Siobhan Lane, Emma Quaid, Megan McCarthy, Sheleen Glynn.

AIB Junior Cup 1/4 Finals

The draw for the quarter finals of the AIB Junior Cup took place today. With four Ulster sides still in contention two received home games while Armagh will make the trip to Crosshaven and Limavady are on the road to Seapoint.

In the AIB Junior Cup, the following clubs were drawn in the quarter finals, which will be played on Saturday, 10th February

Coleraine V Boyne

Crosshaven V Armagh

Seapoint V Limavady

Dromore V Mallow

The winning teams from the quarterfinals will go into a third open draw for the semi-finals, which will be played on Saturday 17th March, with the Cup Final being played on Saturday 14th April 2006.

Abbeyfeale 8 - Mallow 8

Mallow RFC travelled to Abbeyfeale on Sunday 14th January. Mallow opened the scoring with a penalty after 10 minutes when Andrew Cashman kicked a penalty in front of the posts. Abbeyfeale responded minutes later with a try after a mix up in the Mallow defense allowed the Abbeyfeale full back to touch down for five points. Halftime score Abbeyfeale 5 - Mallow 3. In the second half, both side struggled to create many chances until mid-way through when Mallow took the lead after Captain Jerry Cronin scored Mallow's only try in the corner. Mallow looked likely to hold on to the win until the referee awarded a penalty well into injury time to Abbeyfeale that equalled the game. Final score Abbeyfeale 8 - Mallow 8. Mallow Team: Neil Lucey, Gerry Cronin, Ray Roche, Michael O'Connor, Darryl Barry, Ivan Bolster, Graham Kelly, Cliff Cahill, Rory McSherry, Clive Kerrisk, Brendan O'Brien, Andrew Cashman, Des Golden, Aiden Bolster, Neil McSherry.(Subs: Daniel McCarthy, Hemi Taukiri, Patrick O'Riordan, Norman Bolster)

Mallow 6 - Castleisland 12

Mallow suffered a major setback in their race for promotion from division 2 when Castleisland took victory at the Mallow venue in the first game of 2007 for Mallow.
Castleisland took the lead early on with a converted try and exerted lots of pressure on the Mallow line for much of the first half.
Towards the end of the half Castleisland inflicted a further blow when they touced down for a further five points, leaving the half time score Mallow 0 Castleisland 12. In the second half Mallow began to dominate proceedings but could only manage to score two penalies from the boot of Andrew Cashman.
Mallow team :Neil Lucey, Tadgh Caroll, Ray Roche, Michael O'Connor, Darryl Barry, Ivan Bolster, Graham Kelly, Cliff Cahill, Rory McSherry, Clive Kerrisk, Brendan O'Brien, Andrew Cashman, Des Golden, Aiden Bolster, Neil McSherry.(Subs: Gerry Cronin, Leonard Brown, Patrick O'Riordan, Jason Sheehan, Daniel MacCarthy).

December 06 - Club 101 Draw Winners

December 2006:
€500 - Peter O Meara
€200 - Lar Thompson
€100 - Brian O Donnell
€100 - Eamonn Gardiner
€100 - Siobhan O Keeffe

Ballincollig 9 - Mallow 19

Mallow RFC enjoyed a good win in their last game of 2006 away to Ballincollig on Dec 30th. Ballincollig dominated the early exchanges but were only 3 points ahead at the break, Ballincollig 9 Mallow 6. In the second half Mallow scored two tries and kicked a penalty to finish the game Ballincollig 6 - Mallow 19. Mallow's back row were outstanding in this contest especially Graham Kelly who put in a man of the match perforamance.Mallow Team: Ben Shannon, Tadgh Carroll, Neil Lucey, Dan McCarthy, Micheal O Connor, Ivan Bolster, Graham Kelly, Cliff Cahill, Rory McSherry, Brendan O Brien, Clive Kerrisk, Hemi Taukiri, Andrew Cashman, Aiden Bolster, Neil McSherry.(Subs: Darryl Barry, Des Golden, Steve Nolan, Brian O Conno and Jason Sheehan.)

AIB Junior Cup: First Round Round-Up

Article from IrishRughy.ie

Mallow sprung the surprise of the AIB Junior Cup's first round when they defeated last season's beaten finalists Youghal on Saturday.

North Cork's Mallow scored a 19-9 win over their eastern county rivals to book their place in the Junior Cup's quarter-finals, which will have an open draw and will be played on February 10.

Mallow, the reigning Munster Junior League Division Three champions, were very much the underdogs as they travelled to Youghal, the Division One winners from last season.

Youghal, skippered by lock Colin Mulcahy, managed to go into a 9-0 lead and looked comfortably in control. Three Sean Barry penalties edged them in front, but Mallow's defence was strong and the hosts could not get in for a try.

Mallow winger Rory McSherry even managed to get over the Youghal try line on 27 minutes, but referee Barry O'Keeffe could not spot the grounding.

Just before the interval, the visitors scored a morale-boosting try when full-back Neil McSherry waltzed in under the posts after a set-up from hard-working scrum half Kevin Twomey. Andrew Cashman's conversion left the game nicely poised at 9-7.

Mallow were simply outstanding in the second half, showing a great desire to outshine their Division One hosts. Their number eight Cliff Cahill bounded over for a try, which Cashman added the extras too.

Inspired by their prop and skipper Jerry Cronin, Mallow's pack took the game to the favourites and Rory McSherry deservedly crowned the victory when he made the right corner on a support run from the back.

Riding high in the Ulster Qualifying League and judging by their performance on Saturday, Armagh will be real contenders for the Junior Cup title this season.

Colin Steenson's men grabbed a 28-3 win at Ballina and were never really troubled. Helped by an injury-free run, Armagh have now lost only one of their 13 league and cup ties this season and will be a team to avoid in next month's draw.

Full-back Johnny Steenson kicked a second-minute penalty to get Armagh off the mark. In good conditions with no wind to speak of, the visitors then made good ground with a maul, allowing centre Johnny Allen to get in for their opening try.

The Ulster side led 13-3 at the break as Steenson converted Allen's effort and added a second penalty after Stuart Lester had done well to charge down a Ballina kick.

Just after the hour-mark, Armagh added their second try when winger Andy Winder scored after he followed up on a long kick through by out-half Chris Black.

The result was put beyond any doubt when Steenson added another penalty before late in the game, flanker Joe Clarke dived in under the posts after a great catch-and-drive attack set up by tireless number eight Eddie Orr. Steenson converted to complete his 13-point personal haul.

There will be a total of four Ulster teams in the hat for the draw for the quarter-finals, after wins for Down side Dromore and Derry duo Limavady and Coleraine.

Dromore overcame Westport in a thrilling contest on Saturday, beating the Mayo outfit 15-10 at home. Former Ulster scrum half Neil Doak, a player-coach with Dromore, set up the game's opening try when he chipped over the top for winger Mark Crothers to gather and score.

James Cleland missed the conversion but added a 12th-minute penalty to punish a Westport offside.

Two quick tries for the visitors, one off a scrum and the second from a lineout maul, set the cat amongst the pigeons as Westport moved 10-8 clear after only 20 minutes.

However the scoring chance dried up and defences were on top for the remainder of the first half. Dromore's main threat was powerful wide man Crothers and as the visitors' defence tired, he got in for a crucial second try.

The pack did the donkey work, Doak fed the ball out from a maul and Crothers took crash ball on, taking contact and brilliantly stretching his arm over the try line. Cleland's conversion was the game's final score, despite some late surges at the home line from a valiant Westport side.

Limavady kept Sligo scoreless at the John Hunter Memorial Grounds as they bagged a 22-0 first round success.

The Roesiders, watched by Ulster Branch President Stan Huey, had tries from lock Marcus McCollum, prop Stuart Houston and centre Daniel King, with full-back Aaron Brolly kicking two conversions and a penalty.

Flanker Mark Ferris got the nod as man of the match as he produced some excellent support runs, edged the breakdown battle and tackled tigerishly throughout.

Elsewhere, Crosshaven pipped Monivea 23-22 at the Castle Grounds and Seapoint, the pre-tournament favourites, won their Dublin derby against Monkstown 20-13.

The Cobh Pirates v Boyne fixture did not go ahead as Boyne failed to travel south to Cork. A decision on the outcome of this game is yet to be made.

AIB JUNIOR CUP - FIRST ROUND RESULTS:

Ballina 3 Armagh 28, Heffernan Park
Cobh Pirates - Boyne -, Cobh
Dromore 15 Westport 10, Dromore
Limavady 22 Sligo 0, John Hunter Memorial Grounds
Monivea 22 Crosshaven 23, Monivea
Seapoint 20 Monkstown 13, Seapoint
Tullamore 23 Coleraine 25, Tullamore
Youghal 9 Mallow 19, Youghal

Youghal 9 - Mallow 19

Mallow secured a well-deserved win in the AIB All Ireland Junior Cup first Round against Youghal on Saturday 16th of December. Mallow travelled to the Youghal venue as underdogs when the 2006 J1 Division 1 Champions took on the 2006 J1 Division 3 Champions. Youghal were also the runners up in the All Ireland Competition in 2006 and this Mallow side didn’t under-estimate the challenge that lay ahead.
As expected the home side dominated the early exchanges and found themselves 3 - 0 up after 5 minutes from a penalty in front of the posts. Excellent defence from Mallow continued to deny the Youghal attack but with 20 minutes gone Mallow conceded another penalty and were punished when Youghal kicked their second penalty, Youghal 6 - Mallow 0. Mallow came closest to getting the game's first try on the 27th minute when Mallow winger Rory McSherry scrambled over the Youghal line but the Referee was unable to see the grounded ball and awarded a five meter scrum to Mallow, again Mallow missed the opportunity to register their first points. Youghal however went further ahead from the boot of Sean Barry to take a 9 - 0 lead after another successful penalty. With 5 minutes remaining in the first half Mallow registered their first points when full back Neil McSherry received a perfectly weighed pass from scrum half Kevin Twomey to score under the posts. Andrew Cashman converted to leave Mallow trailing by just two points at the break.
In the second half a determined and inspired Mallow side continued to ask questions of their Division 1 opponents, eventually the break came when Mallow No 8 Cliff Cahill sprinted over the line to give Mallow a deserver lead, again Cashman converted to put Mallow 14 - 9 ahead. An outstanding performance from the Mallow pack inspired by Captain Jerry Cronin, Mallow inflicted the final blow when Rory McSherry scored in the corner to finish the game Youghal 9 - Mallow 19.
Many thanks to the loyal Mallow supporters that travelled to Youghal.Mallow Team: Tadgh Carroll, Gerry Cronin, Neil Lucey, Michael O'Connor, Daniel McCarthy, Ivan Bolster, Graham Kelly, Cliff Cahill, Kevin Twomey, Clive Kerrisk, Brendan O'Brien, Hemi Taukiri, Andrew Cashman, Rory McSherry, Neil McSherry. (Subs: Jason Sheehan, Leonard Brown, Des Golden, Gerard Deady and Michael Ruby.)

Mallow 23 ? Newport 17

Mallow keep the pressure on league leaders Bandon after a 23-17 win over Newport on Sunday 10th December last in Parkadillane in heavy conditions.
Mallows scrum half Kevin Twomey opened the scoring with an intercept try which Andrew Cashman converted. Newport responded with a penalty soon after, but Mallow went further ahead when Cashman collected his own kick after a deceptive bounce slipped beyond the Newport full back. Cashman converted to put Mallow into a 17 - 3 lead at the break. However this lead was reduced when Newport scored two converted tries of their own, Mallows lead was restored when Cashman kicked two difficult penalty’s against the wind to bring Mallow's total to 23 - Newport 17. Excellent defence and discipline was displayed towards the end when Newport camped on Mallows line, after continuous failed efforts to breach the Mallow line, it was the Mallow lads that held on for a 6 point win, thus conceding a losing bonus to Newport but Mallow collected the valuable 4 points for the win. Final score Mallow 23 - Newport 17. Mallow Team: Tadgh Carroll, Gerry Cronin, Neil Lucey, Michael O'Connor, Daniel McCarthy, Graham Kelly, Darryl Barry, Cliff Cahill, Kevin Twomey, Clive Kerrisk, Aiden Bolster, Hemi Taukiri, Andrew Cashman, Rory McSherry, Neil McSherry. (Subs: Ivan Bolster Jason Sheehan, Donal Lucey, Leonard Brown and Brendan O'Brien).

Texas Hold?em Poker Night Dec. 8th

Mallow RFC continue in their series of popular poker nights on Friday December 8th. The quality of play and prize funds available at the two previous events in April and October have proved a huge suceess among poker enthusiasts and club supporters alike. The funds raised from these nights has ensured the players are in prime condition for their league campaign.
Texas Hold’em will be the poker game of choice on the night with a 1st prize of €500 guaranteed. Experienced poker night organisers will be on hand to ensure an enjoyable night of cards for all. There will be further entertainment on the night with refreshments and a number of spot prizes for the best hands of cards. Registration will end at 9pm sharp. Admission is €25 and tickets are available now by contacting Cliff Cahill on 0874144112 or Mickey O Connor on 0876981453.

Mallow 45 - St Marys 0

Mallow's first XV enjoyed a comfortable bonus point win against St Marys with a 45 - 0 win at home on Sunday 26th November. Two early tries for No.8 Cliff Cahill set the tone for the game which Mallow dominated through out. Further tries from Aiden Bolster, Ivan Bolster and Hemi Taukiri secured the bonus point before the break. In very windy conditions Andrew Cashman completed a 100% kicking record on the day converting all 6 tries and one penalty early in the game. Mallow's final try was scored from inspirational captain Jerry Cronin. Mallow now look forward to meeting old rivals Ballincollig next week in Tanner Park Ballincollig; in a clash of last years promoted teams. Mallow Team: Neil Lucey, Donal Lucey, Jerry Cronin, Michael O'Connor, Daniel McCarthy, Ivan Bolster, Darryll Barry, Cliff Cahill, Aiden Bolster, Clive Kerrisk, Hemi Taukiri, Andrew Cashman, Rory McSherry, Neil McSherry.(Subs: Ken O Neill, Graham Kelly, Michael Corcoran, Brian Daly, Brendan O'Brien).

Mallow 24 - Kanturk 20

Mallow's second XV had the tough task of playing league leaders Kanturk in the early game in Parkadillane. Mallow went behind early when Kanturk kicked a penalty in front of the posts. Mallow's scrum half Brian O'Connor got Mallow on the score sheet when he intercepted a stray pass and touced down under the posts, Patrick O'Riordan converted to give Mallow a slight lead playing against the wind. Kanturk responded in true local derby style and scored a converted try to lead by 3 points five minutes before the break. But Mallow's constant pressure was rewarded with a penalty that O'Riordan kicked to leave the sides 10 - 10 at the break. In the second half Kanturk added an early penalty and converted try, but Mallow responed when Leonard Browne powered his way over, again O'Roirdan converted. Mallow continued in search of the winning score and got it with a try from Brian Daly. Continued pressure on the Kanturk line also saw Partick O'Riordan kick a final penalty to finish the game Mallow 24 - Kanturk 20. Mallow Team: John Barry, Michael Corcoran, Ian Vaughan, Rob Tyrrell, Kevin Ryan, Jason Sheehan, Brian Henry, Brian Daly, Brian O'Connor, Brendan O Brien, Patrick O'Riordan, Pa Griffin, Leonard Brown, Conor O'Donovan, Kevin McCarthy.(Subs: Steve Nolan, Aidan Buckley).

November 06 - Club 101 Draw Winners

November 2006:
€500 - David Waters
€200 - Kevin Myres
€100 - Rory Casey
€100 - Kevin O'Meara
€100 - Eileen Cahill

(U18) Mallow 41 - 0 Dolphin

Mallow had a great win in the U18 league against Dolphin last Saturday in Mallow. The opening 15 mins were evenly contested with Mallow playing into the wind. A great passing movement was ended in a try by Sean Finnegan. A second try was scored before half time to leave it 10 – 0 at the break.
In the second half and with the help of the wind Mallow dominated in the forwards, with some strong running by Gardiner, Lenihan and O'Donnell kept that Dolphin on back foot. Good line out work by Lenihan, Keena and Griffin gave a good ball supply to outhalf Glynn who marshalled his backs well. In the backs O'Gorman rounded his opposite winger on a number of occasions, and scoring one of his hat trick from inside his own 22, really impressed. The fielding on a windy day by O'Shea and Gardiner was also impressive. Unfortunately a heavy tackle on Cormac Nyhan resulted in a broken arm mid way through second half. A number of substitutes were made at this stage and all played well keeping the sheet clean. This is a team with lots of talent and could make it all the way. Mallow Team: J.Brown. Griffin, S.Cashman, H. Keena (Capt), M. Lenihan, T Gardiner, B.Daly W. O'Donnell, E. Twomey, J.Glynn, C Nyhan, D. O'Connor, K.O'Gorman, S.Finnegan, F.O'Shea C. O'Regan, E. Glynn, D. Forde, H. Trafford, D. Walsh

Muskerry 21 - Mallow 8

Muskerry defeated Mallow on 12 November to put a serious dent in Mallows promotion hopes. Mallow underperformed and looked disorganised against this average Muskerry team. Mallow's scores included Hemi Taukiri with a try and Andrew Cashman with a penalty.
Mallow Team: Tadgh Carroll, Frank Thornton, Jerry Cronin, Dan McCarthy, Ken O'Neill, Ivan bolster, Daryll Barry, Norman Bolster, Kevin Twomey, Clive Kerrisk, Aiden Bolster, Hemi Taukiri, Andrew Cashman, Patrick O'Riordan, Rory McSherry. (Subs: Neil Lucey, Michael O'Connor, Graham Kelly, Brian O'Connor, Jason Sheehan).

October 06 - Club 101 Draw Winners

October 2006:
€500 - Gerald O'Sullivan
€200 - Pat O'Brien
€100 - David Waters
€100 - Mary O'Brien
€100 - Catriona Cronin

Douglas 7 - Mallow 30

Mallow's first XV continued their good run in the J1 (Div 2) League with a comprehensive victory over Douglas on the 22nd Oct 2006. In good weather conditions at Moneygourney Douglas, Mallow took on table toppers Douglas who were expected to win easily, according to local press reports.

Mallow got the dream start however, when winger Brendan O'Brien followed his own grubber kick to pick the ball two meters from the line and score Mallow's first try. Andrew Cashman converted to make it 7-0 to Mallow within the first five minutes. Soon after Mallow were again on the attack with Cliff Cahill powering his way forward, when Cahill was eventually brought to ground well inside the Douglas half, scrum half Kevin Twomey provided the Mallow attack with clean-fast ball that found it's way to captain Gerry Cronin who drew the last defender and passed perfectly to Brendan O'Brien to score again on the right. Cashman again converted to increase Mallow's lead to 14-0 after twenty minutes.

Douglas's only score came after some indiscipline from Mallow; an excellent penalty from the Douglas out half was kicked to touch from the half way line to Mallow's 5-meter line. From the resulting lineout Douglas mauled the ball over the Mallow line and converted to bring the score to 14-7 to Mallow. But again Mallow continued to press for their third try with some tough aggressive play from the back row pairing of the Bolster cousins, Ivan and Norman. Excellent lineout communication between hooker Frank Thornton and jumper Daniel McCarty provided out-half Clive Kerrisk the time to find centre Andrew Cashman who launched a huge garyowen that sent the Douglas fullback the wrong way when the ball bounced and Cashman beat the Douglas winger to ground the ball and score Mallow's third try. The resulting conversion was just right of the posts but Cashman made up for the miss by scoring a penalty at the end of the first half to leave Douglas with alot of ground to make up in the second half. Half time score Douglas 7 - Mallow 22.

Mallow now in search of the bonus point, continued to pressurise Douglas up front with Mallow props Gerry Cronin and Ray Roche bossing the scrum. Mallows centre partnership of Cashman and Hemi Taukiri also excelled causing huge holes for replacement fullback Leonard Brown and left-winger Aidan Bolster to attack. Eventually the bonus point was secured when Mallow second row Michael O'Connor and out half Clive Kerrisk linked up to cause confusion in the Douglas defence, replacement scrumhalf Rory McSherry found Hemi Taukiri who released fullback Leonard Brown to secure the bonus point and ensure the five points returned to Mallow. The resulting conversion was missed but Andrew Cashman had the last say when he brought the Mallow score to 30 points with a penalty in the closing stages of the match. Final score Douglas 7 - Mallow 30.

Mallow Team: Ray Roche, Frank Thornton, Gerry Cronin, Michael O'Connor, Daniel McCarthy, Ivan bolster, Norman Bolster, Cliff Cahill, Kevin Twomey, Clive Kerrisk, Brendan O’Brien, Hemi Taukiri, Andrew Cashman, Aidan Bolster, Neil McSherry.(Subs: Rory McSherry, Leonard Brown, Kevin Ryan, Tadgh Carroll, Darryl Barry)

Mallow 18 - Old Christans 15

Mallow's 1st XV have claimed their first points in the race for the J1 Division 2 title. In a closely fought tough encounter against Old Christians at Parkadillane on Sunday 5th Oct, a 14 man Mallow team came from behind to claim the four points in front of a large vocal local crowd. Old Christians opened the scoring after 20 minutes with an unconverted try. This was soon followed with a try for Mallow after the Old Christians defence failed to clear a high ball and Andrew Cashman pounced to dive on the ball over the Old Christians line.

Mallow's team was reduced to 14 men before the break when Ray Roche was sin binned after Mallows continued infringements on Old Christians maul. Old Christians punished the home side by adding a further three points before the break, to leave the score Old Christians 8 - Mallow 5 at the break.

In the second half Mallow claimed first blood after a well-struck Cashman penalty equalled the score. Old Christans however kept asking questions of the Mallow defence and scored a converted try when the Mallow backs failed to clear their line. Again Mallow was reduced to 14 men when scrum half R McSherry was sent to the line on a straight red card for overuse of his boot.

Mallows number 8 Cliff Cahill and captain Gerry Cronin continued to cause the Old Christians defence with problems with some powerful runs to gain the hard yards. Eventually Mallow's pressure paid off when again Man of the match Cashman was put into space by his centre partner Hemi Taukiri to score under the posts. Cashman also kicked the conversion and in the closing stages of the game kicked a difficult penalty against the wind to seal the victory for Mallow.

Many thanks to the large crowd that turned out for Mallows first home game in the league. Mallow Team: Ray Roche, Frank Thornton, Gerry Cronin, Daniel McCarthy, Michael O'Connor, Ivan Bolster, Norman Bolster, Cliff Cahill, Kevin Twomey, Clive Kerrisk, Aidan Bolster, Hemi Taukiri, Andrew Cashman, Brendan O'Brien, Leonard Brown. (Subs: Kevin Ryan, Tadgh Carroll, Rory McSherry, Neil McSherry, Hugh Kenna).

Mallow 0 - Charleville 15

Mallow RFC's 2nd team entertained local rivals Charleville in a 12.00pm kick off at Parkadillane on Sunday 15th October. Mallow started this game the stronger with excellent running from the Mallow back-row of Conrad Barry and Brian Henry. But it was Charleville who took the early initiative and scored after laying siege on the Mallow line just before the half time break to leave the score 5-0 at the break.

Mallow's experience in the scrum ensured that Mallow dominated this area but they struggled in the lineout with the younger Charleville team getting the upper hand from the sideline. Mallows hope's of winning the game took a major blow when Charleville's scrum half made a break through the centre of Mallows defence to bring play inside Mallow's twenty two. Mallows defence was stretched and Charleville mauled the ball over the line.

Great character was shown by the Mallow team which battled to the final whistle in search of an opening score, but again Charleville counter attacked and had the final say, leaving the score 15-0. Mallow Team: Tony Gore, John Barry, Ian Vaughan, Jason Sheehan, Rob Tyrrell, Conrad Barry, Brian Henry, Brian Daly, Stephen Nolan, Richard Dorgan, Kieran Twomey, Aidan Buckley John Roynane, Conor O Donovan, John Collins. (Subs: Brian O Connor).

Texas Hold?em Poker Night Oct. 8th

Mallow RFC held a very successful Texas Hold’em fundraising event last Friday evening. The event was held in the Clubhouse and considerable funds were raised for the MRFC Injured Players Fund.
Over 60 entrants tried their luck with eight players qualifying for the final table. In the end Stephen Kennedy took first prize with some strong heads-up play eventually winning with a fine flush of hearts.
MRFC would like to sincerely thank all those who sponsored spot prizes, helped out with organisation or supported the night in any way. The next Poker event is scheduled for December 15th again in the Mallow Rugby Clubhouse.
Results:
1st Stephen Kennedy – €500
2nd Declan McCormack – €200
3rd Darren O Regan – €50
4th John O Connor – Bottle of Whiskey
5th Barry Doyle – Gift Set of Wine
Best hand – John Barry (Quad threes) – Gift Set of Whiskey

Many Thanks to our Sponsors:
Horgans Pharmacy
O Donovan’s Off Licence
Heatons
Ian Vaughan
John Barry
Cllr. Noel O Connor
Red Hat
Essink / Mona’s Bar
Gate Cinema, Mallow

Fermoy 30 ? Mallow 10

In tough weather conditions Mallow started the better but failed to capitalize on early pressure by missing 2 penalties in the first 10mins, but continued pressure paid off as Aidan Buckley kicked the first points of the match with Mallow’s third attempt at the posts. Fermoy exerted some pressure of there own late in the first half and at half time the game was all square at 3-3.
After the break and with a strong wind behind them Fermoy pushed forward and Mallow’s defense failed to hold out as Fermoy opened the scoring for the second half with a penalty and a try in the corner. Mallow where then dealt a crucial blow as injuries reduced them to 14 men. Fermoy then took advantage of the numerical superiority and weather conditions to score three tries in quick succession. Leaving the score with 10min remaining, Fermoy 30-3 Mallow. But in typical “never say die” fashion the 14 men from Mallow fought back once more and put together one of the moves of the match. A quick ball from a line was moved through the backs at speed to Pa Griffin who ran in under the posts untouched for the try of the day. Aidan Buckley converted to leave the final score Fermoy 30 Mallow 10. Mallow, take on local rivals again next week in the shape of Charleville at Parkadillane. Kick off 12pm

Team:
Brian Lane, John Barry, Tony Gore, Ian Vaughan (C), Robert Tyrrell, Brian Daly, Jason Sheehan, Kevin Ryan, Brian O’Connor, Richard Dorgan, Kieran Twomey, Pa Griffin, John Collins, Des Cogan, Aidan Buckley.
Subs: Mick O’Shea (for Brian Lane, 20mins), Stephen Murphy for (Des Cogan, 50mins)


Trys: Pa Griffin (1).
Cons: Aidan Buckley (1).
Pens: Aidan Buckley (1).

Bandon 14 - Mallow 0

Mallow’s 1st XV began their league campaign with an away trip to Bandon last Sunday. Having gained promotion last year this was the side’s first taste of Division 2 rugby and all involved were looking forward to the occasion.
The mood was quickly dampened however as Mallow started the match poorly for the second week running and conceded a try within the first ten minutes which was duly converted. This seemed to awaken the North Cork men however as they spent the remainder of the half camped in the Bandon twenty two yard area. Good lineout work from hooker Frank Thornton and flanker Darryl Barry saw Mallow retain enormous amounts of possession. Some strong running in midfield form Clive Kerrisk and Hemi Tiquiri brought the away side right up to the try line on numerous occasions. When the line was finally breached the referee harshly deemed the ball to have been incorrectly grounded and disallowed a fine effort from Des Golden. The sides entered the break at 7points to nil.
As the second half wore on Mallow kept pushing for that illusive score, while fine defense efforts from wingers Conor O Donovan and Leonard Browne kept the Bandon boys pegged back. All the hard work was undone when an error at scrum time saw the ball spill out near the Mallow line, and a dubious intervention from the Bandon winger helped the ball forward for their number eight to pick up and dot down for the crucial score.
The remainder of the game saw both sides cancel each other out in the middle of the park and Mallow’s first game in Division 2 ended in disappointing defeat.

Team:
Taghd Carroll, Frank Thornton, Gerry Cronin, Ken O Neill, Michael O Connor, Darryl Barry, Brendan O Brien, Cliff Cahill, Kevin Twomey, Clive Kerrisk, Hemi Tiquiri, Andrew Cashman, Leonard Browne, Conor O Donovan, Des Golden.

Subs:
Ray Roche (for Taghd Carroll, 40mins), Danny McCarthy (for Darryl Barry, 60mins), Brian Daly (for Ken O Neill, 70 mins).

September 06 - Club 101 Draw Winners

September 2006:
€500 - Tony O'Connor
€200 - Noel Glynn
€100 - David Malony
€100 - Frank Nyhan
€100 - John Holt

Mallow 7 - Crosshaven 20

Mallow Bow Out of Clubs Cup
Crosshaven 20 – Mallow 7
After a successful run of three victories, Mallow were eventually defeated by a strong Crosshaven side in Musgrave Park last Sunday. Last season Crosshaven denied Mallow victory in the O Neill Cup final so there was a lot at stake in this match.
A large crowd was in attendance at Musgrave Park for the 2.30 pm kick off, and despite the showery weather the pitch was in excellent condition. The Crosshaven boys were quickest to settle and immediately pressurised the Mallow line earning them a kickable penalty. The kick was not successful and the sides remained scoreless. After a period of sustained pressure and strong running from the forwards Crosshaven eventually broke through a dogged mallow defense and touched down for the opening try. Mallow seemed unable to get into their stride in the first half hour and conceded another try on the thirty minute mark to leave the scores 12-0. The final ten minutes saw Mallow hold on to possession and shore up their defense and some optimism began to rise amongst the north cork supporters as the game entered the half time break.
Mallow came out all guns blazing after the break and their more organised defense was rewarded when Andy Cashman intercepted a stray pass on the half way and sprinted under the posts untouched. Des Golden followed up with the conversion to make the score 12-7. There followed a period of sustained pressure from the Mallow boys, with some good work from the Barry brothers and the Mallow midfield in particular. However the final pass never stuck and Mallow were unable to turn the territorial advantage into a score. Crucially Crosshaven managed to convert a penalty in a rare incursion into the Mallow half to widen the gap to two scores 15-7, and as Mallow pressed for a score Crosshaven scored at the death to skew the scoreline to 20-7.
On the day it wasn’t to be for Mallow and despite a huge effort Crosshaven once again proved to be their bogey team. Mallow will have learned from this defeat and hopefully the experience will serve them well in their league campaign which begins next Sunday away to Bandon.

Scoring Sequence:
Crosshaven Try and Conversion 0 – 7
Crosshaven Try 0-12
Andy Cashman Try, Des Golden Conversion 7-12
Crosshaven Penalty 7-15
Crosshaven Try 7- 20

Team:
Taghd Carroll, Frank Thornton, Gerry Cronin (c), Michael O Connor, Neil Lucey, Darryl Barry, Conrad Barry Cliff Cahill, Kevin Twomey, Hemi Tiquiri, Andy Cashman, Brendan O Brien, Leonard Browne, Aidan Bolster, Des Golden.

Subs:
Ken O Connell (for Neil Lucey 60mins), Danny McCarthy, Brian O Connor (for Taghd Carroll 70mins), Michael O Donovan

Thurles 15 ? Mallow 18

Thurles 15 – Mallow 18
Thurles were hot favourites going into this game as a top division side with good pedigree. Mallow were determined to keep up their good form however and this lead to an exciting first half .
Mallow forwards achieved immediate parity up front and this gave the backs a chance to break through the Thurles defense. The very first attack saw Des Golden break 60 metres to come up just short of the line. Good work from the scrum and some strong running in midfield led to the concession of a penalty in front of the posts for an infringement at ruck time. Des Golden punished the offense with a well struck penalty to put the Away side in front.
Mallow continued to pressurise and achieved dominance in both scrum and lineout. Some fine ball carrying led to the ball being spun right on the thurles 22. A perfectly weighted skip from Hemi Tiquiri to Gerry Cronin made the gap and Gerry timed his pass excellently to put Cliff Cahill over in the corner. Shortly after this Mallow found themselves 13 points to the good when Gerry Cronin punished some sloppy defending with a well taken try. After a poor clearance reached the thurles 22 Gerry slid a perfect kick past the on-rushing winger and beat him in the foot race to the touchdown.
The sides went in 13-0 at half time.
Thurles were clearly smarting as they began the second half with renewed vigour. They piled on the pressure and a neat inside pass saw the winger cross the line untouched. At this point the game reduced to a hard fought battle with no backward step taken. The referee had to send three thurles players from the field for foul play and this had a detrimental affect on the standard of rugby. Thurles seemed to revel in the fractious type of game and got their noses in front 15-13 with a try and a penalty.
Mallow were not be denied however as immediately from the kick-off they turned over possession, Brendan O Brien crashed through the centre to set the platform and Hemi Tiquiri found Des Golden flying through a gap to score the winning try.
A great scalp for Mallow and the result means they will face Crosshaven in the Semi-Final of the Munster Junior Clubs Cup in Musgrave Park next Sunday. More importantly Mallow have also qualified for the last 16 of the All-Ireland Junior Cup, the draw for which has yet to take place.


Scoring Sequence:
Des Golden penalty
Cliff Cahill try
Gerry Cronin Try
Thurles Try
Thurles Conversion
Thurles try
Thurles Penalty
Des Golden Try

Team:
Ray Roche, Frank Thornton, Gerry Cronin, Ken O Neill, Neil Lucey, Ivan Bolster, Mick O Connor, Cliff Cahill, Kevin Twomey, Andy Cashman, Hemi Tiquiri, Michael O Donovan, Des Cogan, Leonard Browne, Des Golden.

Subs:
Darryl Barry (for Ken O Neill 18mins), Brendan O Brien (for Michael O Donovan 25 mins), Anthony Barrett (for Des Cogan 60 mins). Danny McCarthy, Jason Browne.

Mallow 30 St. Marys 10

Mallow started the match impressively and opened the scoring with 2 penalties from Andrew Cashman. St Mary’s got on the scoreboard with a penalty of there own before Leonard Browne scored the first try of the afternoon after good work in midfield from Cliff Cahill, Hemi Tiquiri and Andrew Cashman. Neil Lucey scored a pick and drive try from five yards out after good forward pressure. Andrew Cashman converted both tries to leave the score at half time Mallow leading St. Mary’s by 20-3.

Mallow opened the scoring in the second half with a breakaway try from Andrew Cashman after Hemi Tiquiri intercepted on his own 22 and broke a few tackles before off loading to Cashman to cross the line. Mallow’s final score of the day was a fine team effort, Michael O’Connor won the line, and some quick hands and movement in the back line saw the ball spread out wide to Aidan Bolster to crash over in the corner to seal the win. St. Mary’s scored a consolation try late on to leave the final score Mallow 30 – 10 St. Mary’s.

In the Quarter Finals of the Junior Club Cup Mallow travel to Thurles, All support is greatly welcomed.

Team: Ray Roche, Frank Thornton, Jerry Cronin (C), Neil Lucey, Michael O Connor; Ivan Bolster, Norman Bolster, Cliff Cahill, Kevin Twomey, Andrew Cashman, Hemi Tiquiri, Michael O’Donovan, Aidan Bolster, Des Cogan, Leonard Brown.
Subs: Ken O'Neill, Jason Sheehan, Daniel McCarthy, Anthony Barrett.

Scores
Trys: Leonard Browne (1), Neil Lucey (1), Andrew Cashman (1), Aidan Bolster (1).
Cons: Andrew Cashman (2)
Pens: Andrew Cashman (2)

Texas Hold'em Poker Night October 6th

Friday October 6th is an important date to note in the diaries of Poker enthusiasts and Mallow RFC supporters alike. Carrying on from the successful night held in April, Mallow Rugby Club will hold a Poker night in their clubhouse in Parkadaline ( ½ mile up the hill from the Gallery Bar) to raise funds for the Mallow Rugby Injury Fund. This fund aims to cover players medical costs associated with sporting injuries received on the field of play.
Texas Hold’em will be the poker game of choice on the night with a 1st prize of €500 guaranteed. Experienced poker night organisers will be on hand to ensure an enjoyable night of cards for all. There will be further entertainment on the night with a Raffle and a number of spot prizes for the best hands of cards. The poker will kick off at 9pm sharp. Admission is €25 and tickets are available now by contacting Cliff Cahill on 0874144112 or Mickey O Connor on 0876981453.

Mallow 36 - 0 Waterford City

Mallow had a comprehensive victory over Waterford City in the Junior Clubs Challange Cup in Parkadillane on Sunday 10th September.
Mallow scored six tries, with Andrew Cashman converting three. Cliff Cahill crossed the Waterford line on three occasions with Brendan O'Brien, Conrad Barry and Capt Jerry Cronin touching down for the remaining scores.
Mallow TeamRay Roche, Frank Thornton, Jerry Cronin, Neil Lucey, Michael O'Connor, Jim Moloney, Conrad Barry, Cliff Cahill, Kevin Twomey, Andrew Cashman, Brendan O'Brien, Ben Shannon, Michael Donovan, Aiden Bolster, Leonard Brown. (Subs: Ivan Bolster, Daniel McCarthy, Ken O'Neill, Des Cogan, Jason Sheehan)

August 06 - Club 101 Draw Winners

August 2006:
€500 - Ivor Dulorery
€200 - Brian O'Donnell
€100 - Kth & Connie O'Regan
€100 - Noel O'Connell
€100 - Kevin O'Meara

July 06 - Club 101 Draw Winners

July 2006
€500 - John Barry
€200 - Denis O'Hanlon
€100 - Kevin Myres
€100 - Pat Cashman
€100 - Darragh Coakley

June 06 - Cub 101 Draw Winners

June 2006
€500 - David Malony
€200 - Tom Dunphy
€100 - John Gardiner
€100 - Brendan O Driscoll
€100 - Jerome O Sullivan

May 06 - Club 101 Draw Winners

May 2006
€500 - Kevin Nyhan
€200 - John Joyce
€100 - Mervyn Shorten
€100 - Eamonn O Donnell
€100 - Christy O Connell

Junior Clubs Opt For Change

The AGM of the Munster Junior Clubs decided at their meeting to end the experiment they have had in place for the last two seasons and go back to Three Divisions.

The First Division will consist of the six sides that qualified for the Play Offs plus the top three sides in each section of the Liam Fitzgerald Cup with the remaining twelve clubs to compete in the Second Division.

Mallow and Ballincollig will now play in the Second Division after their promotion from the Third Division with Fermoy and Charleville playing in the lower tier.

Second Division will be as follows:
Mallow
Douglas
Muskerry
St Mary's
St Senan's
Abbeyfeale
Newport
Ballincollig
Castleisland
Bandon
Tralee
Old Christians