Rising star McNulty named as divisional award winner

An impressive season for Corinthians in the Energia League Division 2B may have gone unfinished but for one player, his contribution was duly recognised on Friday last when Oran McNulty was named as the division’s Rising Star.

When the league was postponed, Corinthians were fourth in the table on 34 points, 11 behind leaders, Malahide, but having played a game less. Their bid for promotion this season has been ended by the coronavirus pandemic, but for McNulty’s efforts have been recognised with the divisional award.

At club level, Corinthians were in contention for promotion to Division 2A under head coach JP Cooney. Wins over Sligo and Greystones and a narrow bonus point loss to Blackrock had them in a very strong position in fourth with two huge games to follow against Wanderers and Belfast Harlequins, as well as having a game in hand.

McNulty had a remarkable season not only for his club, but also for the Irish U-20’s who were on the verge of only a third Grand Slam since the competition was founded as the U-21 Championship in 2004 following wins over Scotland, Wales and England, only for the tournament to be halted cue to Covid-19.

There had been no indication on award winners before the announcement was made and McNulty was delighted when he was named. He was also quick to point out the work that the team had put in all season.

“It’s an absolute privilege to receive this award at my first season at Corinthians. But it doesn’t just reflect on me but how hard the lads have worked this season.

“I wouldn’t have had the opportunity to receive this award if I didn’t have the lads around me pushing for the same goal. I’ve enjoyed the season thoroughly at Corinthians and can’t wait for the preseason and to get going again,” he said.

Internationally, Ireland had just beaten England in the U-20 Six Nations and a win over Italy would have almost certainly set up a Grand Slam decider with France.

While there was initial disappointment with the game being called off due to the coronavirus pandemic, McNulty agreed that it was the right decision.

“Coming off the back of the win over England, we were in a great place table-wise, but performance-wise it felt like we had more to give and Italy was the game to prove it.

For more, read this week’s Galway City Tribune.

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