Lansdowne Under 17s hosted their long time nemeses Newbridge at Claremont Road today for the semi-final of the Leinster Rugby Schools/Youth John Ward Cup which was billed as an epic cup match and didn't disappoint.

Newbridge opened the scoring early with a converted try to be followed shortly after with one from Lansdowne to make it 7-7.  Lansdowne's first try scored by Virgile De La Morinerie.  Aidan Wherley getting over for our second try.

But it was looking ugly for a few mins late into the second half once Newbridge drew level with a perfectly kicked penalty to bring the 75th minute score to 17-17.  If the score to remain tied, whichever team scored first would win, which would have sent Newbridge home with the bragging rights.

However the Lansdowne boys weren't done yet and a try in the Enable Ireland corner by Number 3 Tadgh McKeone closely followed by a classic intercept and 25 meter dash by the marauding John Gorman to score the knock-out punch with the conversion scored right on the final whistle and make it 29-17.

Thanks to Newbridge for a classic cup match and to Leinster Branch referee Fintan Corr.