Leinster Womens Division 3
Kilkenny RFC 24-12 Longford RFC
By Marianne Jordan
A busy and exciting weekend at Kilkenny RFC saw a triple-header for supporters, featuring games for the senior Women’s and Men’s teams. The Kilkenny Women took to the field against Longford RFC in a match that promised intensity and did not disappoint. With a crisp but calm day setting the stage, conditions were ideal for a thrilling contest.
First Half: A Battle for Dominance
Kilkenny opened the game with a powerful kick-off, immediately applying pressure as Longford fumbled possession, resulting in a knock-on. This handed Kilkenny the first scrum of the match, where they quickly showcased their dominance in the pack. A clean pick and pass from Alice Brennan allowed the backs to surge forward, signalling Kilkenny’s intent from the outset.
Longford managed to regain possession momentarily, but Kilkenny’s relentless defensive pressure forced them into a tight spot, limiting their attacking gains. Strong carries through the pods, particularly from the formidable Maureen Ní Chonchobhair, saw Kilkenny continually inch closer to the try line.
The first major scoring opportunity came when Eve Cronin spotted a gap in Longford’s defense and sprinted forward, only to be pushed into touch just short of the line. From the ensuing messy lineout, Kilkenny won a scrum on the 5m line. Leah McCarthy made a determined break before feeding the forward pack, seemingly securing the opening try. However, the referee called play back for a penalty advantage, forcing Kilkenny back into defensive mode.
Both teams engaged in a game of cat and mouse, exchanging penalties and scrums as they battled for territory. After multiple close attempts and fierce resistance from Longford, Kilkenny finally broke through. Isla Mosse powered over the line to register the first try of the match, putting Kilkenny 5-0 ahead.
Moments later, Mosse struck again with a moment of individual brilliance. Collecting the ball from kick-off, she sprinted half the length of the pitch, dodging three tackles before being brought down. Longford responded with a strong push of their own, as their number 6 forced Kilkenny back to their own try line. Under immense pressure, the home side’s defense held firm, with Rachel Brickell executing a crucial try-saving tackle.
A clearing kick from Megan Callanan relieved the pressure and allowed Kilkenny to regain ground. From a well-executed lineout, swift hands from the backs saw the ball reach Eve Cronin, who capitalized on the opportunity and crossed the line for Kilkenny’s second try, extending the lead to 10-0.
Second Half: Kilkenny’s Commanding Performance
The second half began with Longford kicking off, eager to turn the tide. However, the game remained tightly contested, with both teams exchanging big carries and strong scrummaging. Kilkenny’s persistence paid off when Eve Cronin once again found a gap, darting through for her second try of the day. This time, Megan Callanan stepped up to add the conversion, pushing Kilkenny’s lead to 17-0.
Longford, refusing to go down without a fight, exploited a lapse in Kilkenny’s defensive line. A quick attacking play saw them cross under the posts, securing their first try of the game and converting successfully to close the gap to 17-5.
Kilkenny, undeterred, returned to the attack with renewed determination. Big tackles and aggressive rucking put Longford under pressure. After earning a penalty, Longford opted for a lineout inside their own 22, but Isla Mosse once again made her presence felt, disrupting the set piece. The loose ball was gathered by Caroline Quirke, keeping Kilkenny’s momentum alive.
As the match neared its conclusion, Kilkenny refused to take their foot off the gas. Longford attempted to clear their lines with a kick from the back of a scrum, but Lauren Nolan intercepted brilliantly, knocking the ball down and setting up another attacking opportunity. From the ensuing Kilkenny scrum, Caroline Quirke picked the ball and drove over the line, sealing the game with another try. Callanan converted once more, extending the score to 24-5.
Longford fought hard to claw back in the dying moments, launching an attack deep in Kilkenny territory. A penalty against Kilkenny allowed Longford a crucial attacking platform, and they made the most of it, scoring their second try just before the final whistle. The conversion brought the final score to 24-12 in favour of Kilkenny.
A Performance to Remember
Kilkenny Women’s dominant display across all areas of the game was a testament to their hard work and tactical execution. From powerful scrummaging and relentless defense to swift backline movements and clinical finishing, they put in a good all-round performance.
Standout performances from Isla Mosse, Eve Cronin, and Caroline Quirke drove Kilkenny forward, while Megan Callanan’s kicking played a vital role in securing the win. Rachel Brickell’s crucial try-saving tackle highlighted the team’s defensive resilience.
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