Marian defy conditions to advance in style

Marian College can thank their speedy back division for victory over Wilson's Hospital in their second-round Leinster Schools…

Marian College can thank their speedy back division for victory over Wilson's Hospital in their second-round Leinster Schools Junior Cup (Section A) tie at Barnhall yesterday.

A break by Marian down the right in the 13th minute ended with wing Kevin O'Farrell rounding his man and cutting in to score under the posts for a try converted by Kieran Connolly. Five minutes into the second half, Wilson's Hospital were back on terms, captain Wayne Byrne diving over from close range for a try, to which Ryan Lindsay added the points. But Marian's decision to run the ball more, despite the wet conditions, paid dividends almost immediately.

An admirable thrust by centre Brian Egan brought play right up to Wilson's line and when they were penalised at the ruck, Connolly kicked the penalty to restore the Dublin side's lead. Ten minutes later Egan completed the job, crashing over for a fine try under the posts.