Bective prevail against Carlow in Donnybrook
Bective Rangers FC 22 - County Carlow RFC 17
Donnybrook, January 4, 2025 – A view from the ‘side-line’ by OMAHD 🐕
ROUND NINE Leinster League D1A - Bective Rangers claimed a hard-fought 22-17 victory over County Carlow RFC in a fiercely contested Leinster League clash. The game was characterised by physical intensity, strategic kicking, and standout performances in both attack and defence. The win strengthens Bective’s position in the league and highlights their ability to overcome a spirited challenge from last season’s Division 1B champions.
Bective started with intent, building a commanding lead early. Their opening try came from Jamie Lawless, converted by Mikey O’Hare, who later added a 40-meter penalty to extend their advantage. Carlow fought back with a close-range try by Paddy Rogers, converted by Alan Owens, narrowing the gap to 10-7.
Bective quickly responded with a pair of well-executed tries. Shae O’Meara and Oly Foote crossed the line, showcasing dynamic backline moves. Both tries were converted by O’Hare, giving Bective a solid 22-7 lead by halftime. Carlow’s Wesley Shirley received a yellow card in the 35th minute, compounding their first-half struggles.
The second half, Carlow emerged with renewed determination, scoring two tries to claw their way back into the match. Conor Treacy (#8) powered over for the first, and Jonathan Crossley (#14) added another, exploiting gaps in Bective’s defensive line. However, missed conversions left Carlow five points adrift.
Bective faced additional pressure in the final moments when Luke Mion was yellow-carded, leaving them a player down. Despite this, their defence held firm, fending off Carlow’s late surge and securing the victory.
For Bective, led by captain Tiarnan McCloskey, the pack, including the Kelly brothers and James Gallagher, provided a strong platform. And the backline tries from Shane O’Meara, and Oly Foote demonstrated their sharp attacking play, with Mikey O’Hare’s precision kicking proving decisive.
The game reflected Bective’s strong attacking foundation and defensive resilience under pressure, while Carlow’s spirited comeback showcased their determination. Both teams delivered an entertaining match, with Bective emerging deserved winners.
Key performances for Carlow were Treacy and Crossley’s second-half tries, led by the momentum of Carlow stalwarts Wesley Shirley and prop Larry McGrath and this highlighted Carlow’s resilience, while Shirley’s first-half yellow card hindered their momentum.
Next up - Bective Rangers will visit Athy RFC at The Showgrounds on Saturday, January 11, 2025, with a 2:30 pm kick-off. This marks Bective’s first competitive match at the historic venue, which dates back to 1879.
Full Time – Bective Rangers FC 22 (3) Co Carlow RFC 17 (3)
Bective Rangers 1XV: 15 Oliver ‘’Oly’’ Foote, 14 Mikey O’Hare, 13 Craig Cantwell, 12 Bobby Holland, 11 Shane O’Meara, 10 Matthew Gilsenan, 9 Conor Halpenny, 1 Luke Mion, 2 Scott Barron, 3 Conor Kelly, 4 Tadhg O’Dwyer, 5 Gavin Kelly, 6 Tiarnan McCloskey ©, 7 Mattie Keane, 8 Jamie Lawless.
Finishers: 16 David Kealy, 17 Ger Warde, 18 Donagh Lawler, 19 James Gallagher, 20 Connor Murphy.
Scorers: Bective: Tries: Shane O’Meara, Oly Foote, Jamie Lawless - 1; Cons: Mikey O’Hare -3; Pen: Mikey O’Hare – 1.
Referee: Ciarán O’Flynn ARLB IRFU – 2023/24 Holder of the Denis Collins Perpetual Award for Progressive Referee
