Bective overwhelm Ashbourne with a commanding 14 try win
Bective Rangers FC 88 Ashbourne RC 5
Donnybrook, January 18, 2025 – A view from the ‘side-line’ by OMAHD 🐕
VIEW 1XV/2XV MATCH PHOTOS HERE
ROUND Eleven Leinster League D1A – Bective Rangers FC delivered a dominant performance, overwhelming Ashbourne with a commanding 88–5 victory. The home side displayed clinical finishing, superior fitness, and tactical excellence, leaving little room for their opponents to establish a foothold in the game.
From the opening whistle, Bective Rangers took control, showcasing their intent with swift, cohesive attacks. Their first try came in the 3rd minute, courtesy of the dynamic Gavin Kelly, who finished off a well-executed backline move, assisted by the dominate pack. Connor Murphy converted with ease, setting the tone for what would become a long day for Ashbourne.
The forwards were instrumental, particularly in set pieces, as Bective's pack overpowered Ashbourne in scrums and mauls. The home team capitalized on their dominance, taking advantage of a line break created by quick passing through the midfield, scoring five more tries before the half-hour mark. Scott Barron had one after 8 minutes, followed by Connor Murphy, Tim Carroll, Mattie Keane and Mattie Gilsenan leaving the score at Bective 36 – 0
Ashbourne fought hard to disrupt Bective's rhythm, but handling errors and turnovers kept them pinned in their half. Despite a few promising phases, Ashbourne failed to break through a resolute Bective defence.
Bective’s forwards continued to dominate in the scrums and mauls, setting up a platform for their backs to run riot. Adding to the visitor’s woe, the ever-reliable Tadgh O’Dwyer got in for a try before halftime which brought the score to a staggering 43 - 0, leaving Ashbourne with a mountain to climb.
Halftime Score: Bective Rangers FC 43 – 0 Ashbourne
The second half saw Bective Rangers continue their relentless assault. With fresh legs coming off the bench, the home side maintained their intensity and within a minute of the restart the dynamic Gavin Kelly was in for a second try which Connor Murphy converted leaving the score at Bective 50 – 0. Not to be outdone, Donagh Lawler crossed the whitewash, finishing off a dazzling run from the halfway line, but the conversion was missed by Connor Murphy.
Ashbourne showed greater resolve in the second half, contesting breakdowns and tightening their defence. They were rewarded for their efforts in the 52nd minute when Danny Norton capitalised on a defensive lapse by Bective to score their only try. However, the conversion attempt went wide.
Bective’s response was emphatic. Despite a yellow card for Oly Foote in the 51st minute, the home side remained ruthless in attack. The final quarter was a masterclass in attacking rugby from Bective, who added another five tries. Their offloading game and support play were exceptional, leaving Ashbourne's defence in disarray. Craig Cantwell completed a brace, while Conor Murphy and Conor Halpenny added two late tries to cap off a sensational performance.
However, Bective’s momentum was unstoppable. Gavin Kelly added to the tally, assisted by his brother Connor’s slick passing, completing his hat-trick with a superb individual effort. The final whistle confirmed Bective’s emphatic victory.
Bective Rangers demonstrated why they are among the most formidable teams this season, with a well-rounded performance that showcased their depth and cohesion. While Ashbourne had moments of resilience, they were ultimately outclassed. Bective now looks ahead with confidence as league leaders, 5 points clear of second place Seapoint, while Ashbourne will need to regroup and refocus for their upcoming fixtures.
Next up for Bective – It’s a trip to Ashbourne RC for the Energia All Ireland Junior Cup Final against Enniskillen RFC on Saturday, January 25, 2025, with a 2:30 pm kick-off.
Final Score: Bective Rangers FC 88(14) – 05(1) Ashbourne RC
Bective Rangers 1XV: 15 Tim Carroll, 14 Conor Murphy, 13 Craig Cantwell, 12 Matthew Gilsenan ©, 11 Shane O’Meara, 10 Oliver ‘’Oly’’ Foote, 9 Conor Halpenny, 1 Rory Mulvihill, 2 Scott Barron, 3 Connor Kelly, 4 Gavin Kelly, 5 Ger Warde, 6 James Gallagher, 7 Mattie Keane, 8 Jamie Lawless.
Finishers: 16 Luke Mion,17 Tadhg O’Dwyer, 18 Donagh Lawler, 19 Bobby Holland, 20 Mikey O’Hare.
Scorers: Bective: Tries: Gavin Kelly - 3, Craig Cantwell, Tim Carroll – 2, Scott Barron, Mattie Keane, Connor Halpenny, Matthew Gilsenan, Conor Murphy, Tadgh O’Dwyer, Donagh Lawler - 1; Cons: Conor Murphy – 5, Mikey O’Hare, -4.
Referee: Ezequiel Roldan Olivera ARLB IRFU – Lansdowne RFC
