Garryowen’s battle to avoid relegation from Division 1A of the Ulster Bank League received a further boost with a 33-16 bonus point victory over local rivals Young Munster at Clifford Park on Saturday.
The win, Garryowen’s second in a row, has enabled them to move to within two points of second from bottom outfit Ballynahinch. While Ballynahinch have a game in hand, Garryowen would now appear to be in with a definite chance of overtaking them.
Having failed to win in their first ten games, the arrival of former Irish coach Eddie O’Sullivan to help out as an advisor has brought about a dramatic improvement.
Head coach Tom Tierney must also take considerable credit. Garryowen now look a different team with a far more positive attitude.
That attitude saw them pull clear in the second half. Mark Rowley, Neil Cronin and James McInerney added tries to the outstanding first half effort of centre Mark McNulty.
Outhalf Jamie Gavin also played an important role, landing two conversions and three penalties. Young Munster trailed 11-6 at the interval and a Willie Staunton penalty reduced the deficit to 11-9 early in the second half.
But Garryowen took control to add those three further tries and move 30-9 clear. Young Munster’s only response was a try from Sean Rennison, converted by Staunton.
Terenure College continue to lead Division 1B by 13 points after their 24-7 bonus point victory over Belfast Harlequins at Lakelands. Their nearest challengers Corinthians also had a bonus point 29-12 home win over Blackrock College.
UL Bohs are in third spot after sharing nine tries in an exciting 39-34 success over Malone in Limerick. Elsewhere, a stoppage time try by Kolo Kiripati helped Buccaneers defeat Dublin University 20-17 at Dubarry Park.
