Thurles rugby impress in the defeat of Clanwilliam in North Munster Gleeson League

North Munster Gleeson League

Thurles RFC 28

Clanwilliam 17

Under the floodlights of Thurles Rugby Club’s main pitch, the stage was set for an exciting Gleeson League clash between Thurles and Clanwilliam.

The home team, buoyed by the home crowd, emerged triumphant in a pulsating encounter that saw them secure a hard-fought victory with a final score of 28 to 17

The early exchanges were dominated by Thurles, who wasted no time in making their mark on the scoreboard. Eight minutes in, Sean McGrath, displaying impeccable timing and flair touched down for a sensational try.

Jack Flanagan, cool under pressure, converted with precision, putting Thurles ahead by seven points. Thurles continued to pile on the pressure, and some great handling from the Thurles backs ended with a Donnacha Ryan try for Thurles. Jack Flanagan again converted successfully, bringing the score to 14-nil after 30 minutes.

Clanwilliam, however, proved their resilience and rallied before the halftime whistle. Two well-executed tries exploiting a lapse in Thurles’s defence showcased their attacking prowess, narrowing the gap to 14-12.

The missed conversion though, allowed Thurles to maintain a slim lead as both teams headed into the halftime break.
The second half unfolded with both teams displaying their determination and skill.

The Thurles lineup featured standout performances from players such as Jack Kavanagh, and Ciaran Murphy, both of whom turned over ball at key moments in the game. Roy Stanley held firm against Clanwilliam's spirited efforts.

Causing the opposition difficulty in both defence and attack. Dwayne Stanley was a force to be reckoned with in the back row, while Ollie Delaney commanded the game from the scrum-half position

A notable turning point came at the 60-minute mark when Sean McGrath intercepted brilliantly, dashing Clanwilliam's hopes with another try.

Jack Flanagan's consistent kicking ensured the conversion, solidifying Thurles' control of the game. In the end, Thurles Rugby Club emerged as the deserving winners.

The victory was a collective effort, with players like Danny Daliami, Conor Ryan and James Butler contributing both in attack and defence.

The veteran legs of Craig Raven lasted the full 80 minutes and the ever-youthful Tommy Connolly ably directed proceedings from full-back.