posted — January 24th 2012

BUCCANEERS 3 GARRYOWEN 14

A bigger, physically stronger Garryowen inflicted a rare home defeat on Buccaneers when they overcame the midlanders 14-3 in the semi-final of the Ulster Bank Bateman Cup at Dubarry Park, Athlone, on Saturday.

Playing in fine conditions, Buccs were short a number of regulars including Daniel Qualter, Denis Buckley and John O'Brien while Shane Layden and Diarmuid Higgins were in action with the U-21 squad, also against Garryowen. The Limerick club got off to a confidence boosting start with an Adam O'Loughlin overlap try after just 6 minutes with Jack Carty replying with a home penalty.

The visitors pack dominated in the tight while the Pirates lineout malfunctioned on the day. Garryowen had a more seasoned approach and were more clinical with Fergal Lawlor's efficient tactical and place-kicking crucial. The outhalf landed three penalties as Garryowen advanced to meet Ballymena in the final.

However, Buccaneers can take positives from this outing which will have helped their younger players in particular. They had their opportunities too and Michael Kearney could have notched a try or two with a bit of luck while Paul Harte always threatened when in possession. Carty and Conor Finn also did well in the backline while Eoin Rooney and Kolo Kiripati fared best of the forwards with debutant Shane Reilly showing distinct potential at tighthead.

BUCCANEERS:- C. Boland; C. Lavelle, P. Harte, A. Kennedy, C. Finn; J. Carty, M. Dolan; M. Staunton, G. Halligan, S. Reilly; M. Kearney, J. Tormey; E. Rooney, E. Grace and K. Kiripati (captain). Replacements used:- P. de Burca (for Tormey), B. Gilligan (for Reilly), A. Hayman (for Lavelle), R. Byrne (for Kearney) and S. Stapleton (for Halligan).