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In this weeks Semi Finals of the Community Cup, Monaghan were represented in both matches, taking on Portadown at U16 level and Dromore at U14s.
In the U14 match, Monaghan proved more adept at taking their chances in a match where both sides had the opportunities to win. In the first half Monaghan attacked strongly and a strong Dromore defence kept them at bay, but two quick tries from turnover and interception saw Monaghan go 10-0 ahead.
From that point on the game was nip and tuck with both sides proving adept at preventing the other from scoring. It was Monaghan however who had a more cutting edge and despite Dromore getting on the scoreboard with a converted try and a penalty, Monaghan scored 2 more converted tries of their own to run out deserved 24-10 winners.
The U16 game saw a Clash of the Titans, as Monaghan took on the only team to have previously beaten them this season. In a fairly cagey first half, Portadown dominated possession and played the more ambitious game, but could not break through a very obdurate Monaghan defence. Monaghan for their part, were content to play for position and then attempt to use their big runners to gain ground, but defences ruled the roost and half time came with no score.
A similar pattern followed in the second half although Monaghan came more into the game from a possession perspective - they began to press , and indeed both teams looked dangerous when in possession, and both had their chances but the defence from both sides was outstanding.
Unfortunately in a game such as this it often is an error which proves the difference and in this case a misguided clearance from Portadown found its' way into the hands of a Monaghan forward hanging out wide and he managed to get in for the vital score. Despite pressure from Portadown, no further scores were made and Monaghan won by 5-0.
Huge credit is due to both U16 teams particularly who played a ferociously competitive match in a good spirit. The phrase "no-one deserved to lose" is often misplaced but in this case it would certainly be true.
However, Monaghan advance now at both age levels and will play either Banbridge or Randalsown in the finals in two weeks time. |
