In a gritty contest from the outset, both Lansdowne and Naas exchanged penalty goals in the early stages of the game, with Naas taking the lead 3-0 at 13 minutes, only for Lansdowne to level the score to 3-3 two minutes later. The match continued in this tight, tactical fashion, with another penalty for Naas at 25 minutes nudging them ahead 6-3.
The balance shifted dramatically at 35 minutes when Lansdowne received a yellow card. Forced to defend with 14 men, Lansdowne held strong on their own line, but eventually Naas managed to exploit the space, crossing in the corner to extend their lead to 11-3.

However, Lansdowne fought back just before the break. Right wing, Adam Galbraith scored a try in the corner on the stroke of halftime, breathing new life into Lansdowne’s game. With this late effort, Lansdowne closed the gap to a single point, going into halftime down just 11-10.

The second half began slowly, with both teams probing for weaknesses. Lansdowne eventually broke the deadlock, taking their first lead of the match at 11-13 with a well-struck penalty. But Naas quickly answered back, reclaiming the lead with a penalty of their own, pushing the score to 14-13.

A fierce ten-minute battle ensued, with neither side giving ground, until full-back Paddy Burke powered through with a dramatic bump-off to score in the corner. Lansdowne’s advantage was increased further by an outstanding conversion from the touchline by Conor Linehan outhalf and captain on the day, giving them a 14-20 lead as they entered the final stretch of the game.

The last ten minutes tested Lansdowne’s endurance and defensive organization, as Naas launched wave after wave of attacks, pinning Lansdowne inside their 22-meter line. In a last-ditch assault, Naas attempted to run the ball wide, but Lansdowne’s defence held firm, repelling the effort and sealing a hard-fought away victory.