Mill Road was the place to be on Saturday last if you wanted to see a feast of open rugby on a beautiful autumn afternoon. Dundalk kicked off their Leinster League campaign against a young Newbridge side. Dundalk started off playing a high tempo game which was a joy to behold. The tough pre season work seems to be paying dividends as Dundalk looked sharp and fit. With some players returning to the fold after a year’s sabbatical it was great to James McConnon and Brendan Hadden back in a Dundalk jersey. Isaia Petelo the new Kiwi centre looked very impressive in a backline well led by new captain Thomas Campbell.
It wasn’t long before Dundalk was on the score sheet after several phases of play and sustained pressure. Dundalk was awarded a penalty. A quick tap by Campbell and he found a gap to get the first try. Ultan Murphy added the conversion. Dundalk’s forwards were giving their backs quick ball and it was proving very fruitful. It wasn’t long before Petelo got over for his first of three tries after some good running. Chris O’Hanlon was doing trojan work in the lineout and prevented Newbridge from winning any clean ball. Hooker Johnny Gray was unlucky not to have a try when he dropped the ball over the line but got his reward for his efforts when he soon crashed over the line. Johnny Williams also managed to squeeze over the line just before half time.
The second half continued as the first with Dundalk not taking their foot off the pedal. With continued pressure Dundalk added further tries through Petelo (2), winger Owen McNally and McConnon. Dundalk emptied their bench and the fresh legs of Hadden, Conor Williams, Darren McGuinness and the Shields brothers Robert and James helped to keep the tempo up. Robert Shields helped himself to an excellent team try and Campbell added the final try to wrap up a big win for the Mill Road men. Murphy added some excellent conversions and his goal kicking will be crucial this year if the team are to improve on last season.
Hopefully Dundalk can continue in this rich vein of form but Coach Ennie Faatau and his squad will have a sterner test next week away to Enniscorthy. Newbridge were a well beaten side well before the end and will need to improve quickly or it will be a long hard season for the Kildare men. Robbie Farrell, Chris O’Hanlon, Paul Meegan and Ennie Faatau shone in the pack while out wide centres MJ McKevitt and Petelo combined very well. The 2nds kick off their league campaign also away to Enniscorthy next week.
