Leinster League Division 2

Newbridge 18   North Kildare 8

This first outing in the Leinster League Division 2 was played in wet and very windy conditions at Rosetown, in Athgarvan. Newbridge scored 2 tries, 2 penalties and a conversion to North Kildare’s 1 try and 1 penalty.

Initially the wind blew across the field and was well utilised by Newbridge. Both packs threw all their efforts at each other as the wide ball seemed very difficult for the backs. Newbridge outhalf Robbie Waters was on hand in 14 minutes to score a good penalty from 38 yards out. This was followed 2 minutes later with a penalty from North Kildare from 35 metres out. How the teams would cope with the ever-increasing wind became a big factor. Newbridge had plenty of possession in this half and in the 38^th minute No. 8 Tom Treacy was on hand to get the touchdown after some terrific rucking from the Newbridge pack.  Robbie Waters converted. The half time score was 10 points to 3 in favour of the home side.

Newbridge showed good intentions as the match resumed. They took the game to North Kildare and after a good back movement winger Conor O’Brien got over in the corner in the 43^rd minute. The wind now changed direction and Newbridge had to face it full on the remainder of the game. Robbie Waters was on hand again in the 56^th minute to put over a good penalty from 40 meters out to leave the score at 18 points to 3.

As the game wore on it was North Kildare who took the match by the scruff of the neck and lived close to the Newbridge line. Adam Bingham at wing forward was replaced by Mike Doyle in the 60^th minute. Newbridge defence had to be very firm all through this half and their first up tackling was superb. However, they were breached in the 77^th minute by the North Kildare hooker for a try.

Best for Newbridge were Tom Treacy at No. 8 and hooker Will Jennings in the forwards. In the backs Dinny Clarke was very solid at centre as was Stephen Cooke on the wing.

Newbridge: Cameron English, Will Jennings, Brendan Commane, Scott McMullan, Callum Reynolds-Source, Adam Bingham, Jeff Draper (Capt), Tom Treacy, Kevin Commane, Robbie Waters, Conor O’Brien, Dinny Clarke, Karl Darragh, Stephen Cooke, Mark Delaney. Subs: Alfie Thompson, Mike Doyle, Fergal Doyle, Paidi Davies.

Referee: Jason Meaney, Portlaoise.

Newbridge are away to Coolmine in Ashbrook on the 03 October at 1500.

Newbridge Seconds beat North Kildare by a score of 36 points to 22.