Division Three final to be played away from Lansdowne
Clonakilty remain on course for their first ever AIB League Division Three title after running in four tries against Bruff in this afternoon’s semi-final tussle at Shannonvale.
The West Cork side – table-toppers with 13 wins in 15 games, scored tries through centre Paul Dillon (2) and wingers Noel O’Sullivan and John O’Donnell as they earned a 24-3 victory.
Number 10 Gary Cribb kicked two conversions.
Interestingly, the only two teams to beat Clon in the League this season have been Bruff and Suttonians, and the latter will provide their opposition in next Saturday’s Division Three final.
The Dublin 13 outfit got the better of Wanderers in a capital duel today, winning 23-10 at John J MacDowell Park.
Scrum half and captain Vinny Patton got Suttonians’ first try, whilst prop Ciaran Kavanagh and winger Daragh Higgins also got off the mark.
Out-half David Walls kicked a conversion and two penalties for the victors.
Patton said afterwards: “Both ourselves and Clonakilty play with an open, running-style of rugby so it should be a good final. We’re delighted to get through – it’s our first League final.”
The IRFU have decided to move the Division Three final away from Lansdowne Road to Old Belvedere’s Anglesea Road ground.
IRFU Chief Executive Philip Browne said: “We realise the importance players and coaches place on the possibility of playing at Lansdowne, but unfortunately the advice given to us is that the pitch would not be able to take the strain (of the three divisional finals).”
Commenting on the Union’s decision, Patton conceded: “It’s certainly a pity that it won’t be played at Lansdowne. Hopefully it won’t take away from the occasion, but you do think if they can play two games on the pitch, then why not three?”
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