AN IMPRESSIVE first half performance by a more committed De La Salle saw the division three side triumph over their more illustrious opponents in the inaugural match of this year's Smithwick's Floodlit Cup at Anglesea Road last night.

In truth, it was a dismal performance by the division one side, that saw them make a first round exit from the competition for the second year in a row.

Although DLSP were playing a strong wind, they had the of the opening exchanges was no surprise when centre, O'Riordan opened their account with a penalty after 13 minutes.

Two minutes later, DLSP were on the offensive again and when the ball was popped up to prop Mark Kavanagh, he crashed over from close range for a try. O'Riordan converted.

Three minutes from half time, an excellent break and pass from centre Donal Connelly put full back Gerry Harvey in and Blackrock appeared to be back in the match.

However, despite the fact the Mick O'Neill was lording the line outs and that their forwards seemed to have the upper hand in the loose, Blackrock could find no way past the gritty DLSP defence, in which Kavanagh, Kieran Shanley and Joe Parkes were the leading lights.

Out half John McGowan was narrowly off target with a couple of penalties and when Blackrock lost possession for the umpteenth time when a try seemed certain, 10 minutes from time, the game was up.

DLSP sealed a deserved win on the stroke of full time, number eight Pat Nugent getting the important touch in the pushover try.