Conors try not enough to save exiles

Conor’s try not enough to save Exiles

A late, late first half try by Mullingar’s Conor Gilsenan brought London Irish back in to contention in their European Challenge Cup quarter-final against Scottish giants, Edinburgh but unfortunately, it was not enough to get them through.

Ultimately, they lost out by 23-18 on home soil in the Madejski Stadium, but a late surge saw Irish cross the line only to have the try disallowed. It was despearately disappointing, after a very strong second half performance which really tested their visitors.

Conor put in a very solid performance over his 60 minutes of game time, immortalised by a superb 22 metre dash to the corner, which re-ignited the Exiles challenge after a poor opening 30 minutes.

Unfortunately, place kicker, Shane Geraghty will not have happy memories of the encounter. Had he been on best form, then the Exiles and not Edinburgh would have progressed.

Conor’s try brought London Irish within six points of Edinburgh at the break, 16-10 and thirteen minutes into the second period they took the lead, 18-16 following a second try.

But Edinburgh re-grouped and fresh legs and a concerted effort made all the difference as they progressed to the last four. The Exiles hearts and hopes of cup success were finally ended in stoppage time when they crossed the line only to have the decision ruled against them by the Television Match Official (TMO).

Conor was the subject of very favourable half time comments from one of Ireland's greatest players, Brian O'Driscoll, which hopefully, will be of some consolation for the young Mullingar man.