There is nothing quite like a local derby to give an added dimension to a game and so it was on Sunday last when city rivals Corinthians and Galwegians met in the u14 league in Cloonacauneen. There was a great air of expectation among spectators and they were not disappointed in a turned out to be a closely fought encounter. Galwegians started the brighter of the two and kept the home side under pressure for long periods of the first half, with some good work paying dividends with a try in the corner which was not converted. Corinthians got through some good phases but were to a large degree unable to breach the visitor’s defence, and in turn had to produce some fine defensive work in order to deny the visitors adding to their tally. Although the score board only showed a 5 point margin to Galwegians at half time it belied the quality and excitement of the game that was unfolding at the Tuam Road venue. The second half was every bit as enthralling as the first with no quarter being given by either side, it was hard fought battle and a penalty in front of the post gave ‘Wegians a golden opportunity to stretch their lead by a further three points and this they did. However Corinthians did not lie down but instead upped their game and we saw some great interplay between backs and forwards. The hard graft continued and the home side was rewarded by a great push over try under the post with the touchdown credited to Dylan Donnellan. Ruadhain O’Bearra added the two points and this set up the encounter for a thrilling last quarter, and so it was with some great phases being played out, but to no avail for Corinthians. The game finished with the slimmest of margins between the two sides 7 to 8 in favour of Galwegians.
