Last minute woe for Collegiate 2s

Collegiate 2’s were back at home this week, against a side with a similar league position.

The first ten minutes were punishing for Collegiate, with penalties galore gifting Rossendale possession and territory. Despite strong defence and some great individual tackles, Rossendale powered over to take the first score of the game.

Collegiate came back strong and put the pressure on the visitors. Yet, penalties stopped the momentum for Collegiate, giving Rossendale the chance to add to the scoreboard, with a well kicked penalty taking the game to 8-0. The game could have been taken away from Collegiate with the amount of penalties against them, but tenacious defence was the key to keeping the score within reach.

When the Blue and Blue finally got sustained possession they were able to show just how effective they could be in attack. After numerous phases, with the ball reaching both sides of the pitch, Patrick McElroy was able to get the ball to Toby Kinealy, who powered past the defenders to get into the corner. This helped to place Collegiate on the front foot going into the end of the half.

Collegiate started the stronger of the two teams from the kickoff, gaining ground and dominating field position. Jimmy Connolly was able to kick a penalty putting the game at 8-8. From the kick-off, Collegiate 2’s scored a fantastic team try, with everyone contributing a part in it. Brilliant support play, strong running and effective hands put Dennis O’Neill into the corner and Collegiate took the lead for the first time in the match.

The home side looked most likely to go on to win, but were unable to add to the score, despite being firmly placed in the opposition 22. With time running out it looked like Collegiate would secure a home win. But, a powerful last few minutes from the visitors was rewarded. A strong forward drive once again put Rossendale over the line to make it all square.

With the kick missed as seconds left on the clock it looked as it the game was heading for a draw, yet Rossendale would be the team to take the spoils. With the last attack of the game a penalty was awarded to Rossendale in Collegiate’s 22. The pressure was on, but the kicker held his nerve and was able to get Rossendale the win.

A horrible way to lose for Collegiate, after so much promise. But penalties proved to be costly and showed how Rugby matches can be settled by such small margins of error.