Metro League Divison 8
Lakelands
Lansdowne J4 26 - 46 Terenure College RFC
In a thrilling display of rugby, Lansdowne J4 outperformed Terenure on their home turf, securing a decisive 26-46 victory. Lansdowne executed a blend of sharp, rehearsed moves and opportunistic breaks, showcasing the skill, experience, and excellent coaching of a team with players spanning multiple generations.
First Half:
Lansdowne struck early, taking the lead with a perfectly executed try by second row and Gallic giant, Patrick Chapeau, confidently converted by scrum-half Afonso Mendonca to make it 0-7. Despite controlling much of the play, Lansdowne’s momentum was briefly disrupted when Terenure managed to equalize against the run of play, leveling the score at 7-7.
Lansdowne struck early, taking the lead with a perfectly executed try by second row and Gallic giant, Patrick Chapeau, confidently converted by scrum-half Afonso Mendonca to make it 0-7. Despite controlling much of the play, Lansdowne’s momentum was briefly disrupted when Terenure managed to equalize against the run of play, leveling the score at 7-7.
Undeterred, Lansdowne responded with a “true training ground move” orchestrated by the pack dominating at scrum time and great running from MOTM full back Daragh Linehan who set up Ger Clancy to get over the line and put Lansdowne back in the lead at 7-12. New backs coach Oscar O'Cleirigh , brimming with pride on the sideline, praised the execution and the team’s commitment to the game plan he had spent many late hours devising.
Veteran Cathal McNamara, a prop, hooker, and grandfather, extended Lansdowne’s lead with a powerful drive over the line. His quip on his way back, “I think I’m finally getting the hang of this!” reflected both his wit for his age and his impact on the pitch. This brought the score to 7-17 as Lansdowne took control heading into halftime.
Second Half:
The second half began with Terenure asserting themselves, scoring an early try in the corner to reduce the deficit to 12-17. Lansdowne, however, were quick to answer. Alexis Pavier, the “French flyer,” broke through for another Lansdowne try, with Afonso’s reliable boot adding the extras, extending their lead to 12-24.
The second half began with Terenure asserting themselves, scoring an early try in the corner to reduce the deficit to 12-17. Lansdowne, however, were quick to answer. Alexis Pavier, the “French flyer,” broke through for another Lansdowne try, with Afonso’s reliable boot adding the extras, extending their lead to 12-24.
Shortly after, Lansdowne pulled off what may be their try of the season. Straight from the kick-off, Rory “Dallas/Cunny” Cunningham charged through Terenure’s defense before offloading to Ger Clancy, who sprinted 50 meters to score under the posts. “Exit Training 101!” was how Barry Lalor glowingly described the play, which brought the score to 12-31.
Inspired by Cathal’s earlier try, octogenarian Frenchman Ludo Amblard added another for Lansdowne, quipping, “Après, Cathal, c’est moi, le deluge!” as he crossed the line. The score was now 12-36, and coach Barry jokingly invited any more “French lads” to join the scoring party. Fittingly, Alexei Pavier responded, running in his second try with a brilliant 40-meter sprint, putting Lansdowne ahead 12-41. Four French tries - is this a record? Allez J quatre !!!
Terenure managed to add one more to their tally, narrowing the gap to 19-41, but Lansdowne’s dominance was never in question. Conor O’Grady powered through from an excellent lineout setup to make it 19-46.
In the final moments, both teams traded tries, pushing the final score to 26-46 in favor of Lansdowne.
Key Players:
- Daragh Linehan: Excellent under the high ball, and cruelly denied a try after a 100m break.
- Patrick Chapeau and Alexis Pavier: Each showcased pace and finishing skills, contributing significantly to the scoreline.
- Ger Clancy: Essential in both tries and support play, exemplifying Lansdowne’s cohesive team tactics.
- Cathal McNamara and Ludovic Amblard: Inspirational figures who not only scored but brought humor and heart to the field.
It was a dominant performance by Lansdowne J4, who blended experience with innovation, thrilling the sideline and proving the effectiveness of disciplined, well-practiced rugby. Their cohesion, evident in the execution of set plays, and the inspiring contributions from players across all ages, made this a memorable victory. Lansdowne will carry this momentum forward, while Terenure will regroup after facing an opponent firing on all cylinders.
Match Report - Barry Lalor ft. AI
