The spirit of rugby was on full display recently when Lansdowne FC’s U13s welcomed the Liberty Saints U13s to the back pitch on Lansdowne Road for a joint training session and practice match. The "Friday Night Lights" was an opportunity to share resources and knowledge between some of the oldest clubs in the country and the newest.

The session got off to a soggy start as torrential rain lashed down across the pitch. However, the weather did nothing to dampen the enthusiasm of the players. Under the guidance of Lansdowne U13s head coach Seb Orsi, alongside club player/coaches Noel Andrews and Elias Murray Whelan, both squads got stuck in immediately, displaying brilliant energy and determination in the slippery conditions. 

For the visiting side, the opportunity to share the pitch and gain new coaching insights was invaluable. Liberty Saints Coaches Willie Power and Hugh Hackett were delighted, noting that the opportunity to share resources and build knowledge will play a vital role in preparing players up for the clubs  first season at this level. 

Liberty Saints RFC, based in the Liberties/D8, is dedicated to making rugby accessible to young people from all backgrounds and has made great strides since forming in 2008. 

The evening was organised by Will Keating, who would like to thank the coaching setup, and all the parents and volunteers who braved the weather to support the event, especially the other LFC groups who accommodated the pitch access.  Most importantly, congratulations to the young players from both clubs for their brilliant sportsmanship!