The Dublin Hospitals Rugby Cup which is the oldest continuously played Rugby competition in the world came back to HQ last night night hosted by Lansdowne Football Club.

The Dublin Hospitals Rugby Cup has been contested by the teaching hospitals in Dublin since 1881. The competition has a claim to the oldest Rugby Union competition in the world. The United Hospitals Cup in London was started 6 years earlier, but 12 years were not played during the periods of World War I and World War II.

Last night saw the combined weight of St. Vincent's University Hospital take on Trinity on the back pitch at the Aviva Stadium.

It was the closest of close games with St. Vincent's taking an early lead with an unconverted try. Closely followed by a try of their own from Trinity which brought them to 7 points up the half time whistle. The second half saw St. Vincent's edge ahead but Trinity came right back with a most beautiful block down, caught by their own player and charged over for a try to bring them ahead. Vincent's weren't done yet however and after a further try at the clubhouse end it brought them to within 1 point of Trinity 20-21. With three minutes left to play on the clock, St. Vincent's were granted a kickable penalty and took their chance bringing the FT score 23-21 in their favour. This competition has a history of close finishes and this was another one not to disappoint.

Well done to everybody involved for a superb evening of amateur student rugby. Thanks to Leinster Branch officials for running a superb game.

See you in 2024