Mallow hosted Crosshaven on Sunday last in what was their 5th league game of the season. Having opened the league with 3 wins, they fell narrowly short against Newcastlewest last weekend on a scoreline of 11-7. This fixture was an important one for the home side as they were looking to get back to winning ways against an in-form Crosshaven outfit. The home side started well and got on the score board after 10 minutes thanks to consistent pressure. Crosshaven coughed up a penalty which David Breen slotted over from 22m out. Mallow continued this positive start and took advantage of their opening visit to their opponents 5m line. Following numerous pick-&-go’s from the forwards, Sean Glynn eventually powered over from close range for the game’s opening 5-pointer. Mallow attacked from deep quite well and varied their game plan by looking to kick accurately to the corners also. They were next to find themselves on the wrong side of the law and ‘Haven took full advantage with a penalty of their own to put the score at 8-3 after 20 minutes of play. Shortly afterwards, owing to great phase play dragging in the Mallow defence, the visitors spun the ball wide where they found space and crossed the whitewash for their opening try of the tie through Killian O’ Keeffe. Shortly before the break however, Mallow responded with an excellent converted try of their own. Slick hands from the backs saw Conor O’ Donovan race away from 40m out and dot down in the corner which Jimmy Glynn converted to leave the score line at 15-10 going into half time.

The second half saw Mallow playing up the hill and into a stiff breeze. A real arm wrestle ensued but as the sides entered the final quarter, it was Crosshaven who were in the ascendency. Their defence stood firm and any sniff of the line Mallow had was quickly shot down as they tackled with force and great line speed. ‘Haven scored a quality converted try in the corner as Mallow were beaten out wide by quick hands to put them into a lead. A penalty in the closing stages of the game saw the east Cork side move the gap between the sides out to six points, a lead which they retained until the final whistle. It was a tough setback for the home side, their first home defeat in the league in 2 years, as they fell to a very strong Crosshaven team who were seeking revenge for the County Cup first round loss last season. This bonus point defeat leaves Mallow fourth in the table as they enter into a week’s break in the league.

Next match: Division 1 Cup - Abbeyfeale v Mallow RFC. Sunday, Nov 17th KO: 2pm