'Wegians slump to fourth defeat on the bounce

Galwegians 11Bruff 22

Galwegians suffered a disappointing fourth consecutive AIL defeat, this time at home to newcomers Bruff, at a rain-sodden Crowley Park on Saturday.

The Blues got off to the perfect start when they opened the scoring after just four minutes when a kick ahead by promising young out-half Tadgh Leader caused panic in the Bruff defence, with ’Wegians being eventually awarded a five metre scrum.

Astrong shove by the home pack created the opportunity for lock forward Brian McClearn who took a scoring pass to touch down near the left corner. Full-back Rob O’Beirn was narrowly wide with the conversion attempt, leaving the hosts 5-0 to the good.

However the visitors soon got into their stride and settled into a pattern of forward domination. The wet conditions certainly suited them more, they were superior in the set piece which created the platform for territory domination, and the penalties soon started coming their way.

Veteran centre Brian Cahill, one of three brothers in the visiting backline, took advantage to land two kicks at goal in the 16th and 27th minutes to nudge the visitors 6-5 in front, but ’Wegians responded well and a good passage of play created a penalty opportunity which Cleary converted to nudge the home side 8-6 ahead.

For more, read this week's Connacht Sentinel.