U16s reach second final

Mullingar Rugby Club notes

Our Under 16 boys were in Longford for the league semi-final as reward for their quarter final win over Athy last month. Confidence was high following recent results, most notably last Sunday’s Leinster Cup semi-final win over Gorey in Naas, which earned a trip to Energia Park in Donnybrook for the final on the May bank holiday Monday.

There’s never much between the midlands neighbours and both sides are well represented at regional midlands. The game had added interest with a league final place at stake and Longford were highly motivated. Their ferocious tackling and energy had them on top for the majority of the first half, but Mullingar kept them at bay with some tremendous defending and tackling, particularly by Charlie Boyle and Tom O’Brien, in the forwards. Conditions were difficult for both sides as they struggled at the set-piece, particularly lineouts, but Longford had the aid of a strong breeze and went in leading at the half time 7-3. A converted try for Longford and a Mullingar penalty from Kian Campbell early in the half.

Mullingar would have been happier at the break considering the wind disadvantage in the first half and possession dominance by the home side. And so it proved in the second half as Mullingar were rewarded after eight minutes when the impressive Ethan Heitmuller showed his trademark speed and side-step by running in a deserved try.

Four minutes later full back, Heitmuller, was over try line, this time in not so trademark circumstances as he grabbed the loose ball from the ruck and dived over the end line. Campbell added the difficult conversion from near the sideline and Mullingar’s lead was 15-7.

Longford tried to respond but met superb Mullingar defence, epitomised by prop forward David Johnson who constantly thwarted the Longford advances. Mullingar were still controlling possession, scrum half Ollie Murphy pulling the strings and making the yards, playing the game in the Longford half, which was rewarded with a penalty within a kickable distance as the travelling side opted to go for the posts, justified as the out-half once again split the posts to extend the lead to 11 points with eight minutes remaining.

Mullingar now seemed to have quenched that Longford appetite evident in the first half and any remaining doubt was removed when the score of the game arrived on 54 minutes. Mullingar second row Ike Adetuberu powered past several forwards and evaded further tackles along the sideline as he ran almost the full length of the Longford pitch to touch down under the posts. The conversion was added; 25-7 in favour of the visitors.

Longford kept pressuring their opponents and were rewarded with the last play of the game when they mauled over in the corner following a lineout; final score Mullingar 25, Longford 12.

Team: 15 Ethan Heitmuller, 14.Charlie Boyle, 13.Charlie McDonnell, 12.Conor Casey, 11.Jack McDermott, 10.Kian Campbell, 9.Ollie Murphy 1.David Johnson, 2.Ciaran Doran, 3.Matthew Murphy, 4.Jamie Quinn, 5.Ike Adetuberu, 6.Tom O’Brien, 7. Isaac O’Neill, 8.Ben Smith. 16. Oscar McCormack- Flood, 17. Andrew McLean-O’Hara, 18.Conor Walshe, 19.Darragh Vickery, 20 Darragh Bennett, 21.Sean Gannon.

U9 Boys Shine at Roscrea Rugby Blitz

The U9 boys showcased remarkable skill and teamwork at the recent rugby blitz held in Roscrea. Participants from Tullamore, Roscrea, and Birr faced off against our young athletes in a series of competitive matches that kept fans on the edge of their seats.

With two teams from Mullingar making the long journey to Roscrea, the event was a true testament to the commitment of both players and parents alike. Each team participated in three games, where they not only scored numerous tries but also demonstrated exceptional tacking skills. "The teamwork displayed by our boys was the highlight of the day," said one of the coaches. "It’s amazing to see how they support each other on and off the field." Parents and supporters from

Mullingar praised the young players for their efforts and sportsmanship throughout the day. The event not only provided a platform for the boys to showcase their abilities but also helped in fostering a strong sense of camaraderie among the players.

Late Drama in Leinster Cup Semi-Final Sees Mullingar Heartbreak Turn to Hope

In a dramatic twist at the Leinster Cup semi-final, the Mullingar under-14 red girls experienced a rollercoaster of emotions against Naas. Originally ending in a 24-all draw, Mullingar was initially ousted due to the "first try rule." The rule stipulates that in the event of a tie in underage knockout games, the team that scores first wins, which in this case, favoured Naas.

From the outset, Mullingar faced a physically larger Naas team but displayed superior rugby skills. Naas capitalised on their forward strength, using pick-and-go tactics to score, while Mullingar leveraged their speed and skill, resulting in brilliant tries from Ciara Best and Mia Lamben, with Lamben crossing the line twice.

Despite trailing early, Mullingar’s resilience shone through, notably after half-time talks focused on wide play and ball retention. Captain Eibhlin Casey led by example, adding another try to Mullingar’s tally. However, Naas responded strongly, maintaining pressure and scoring crucial tries.

In the dying minutes, Mullingar’s Megan Charles scored, tying the game. Robyn Byrne’s successful conversion brought the score to 24-24. Yet, the initial joy was overshadowed by the first try rule, handing the victory to Naas.

However, a subsequent review of match regulations revealed an oversight regarding player numbers, prompting a decision to overturn the result and schedule a rematch. This decision has revived hopes for Mullingar, whose journey over the seasons promises future successes. Their determination and spirit, despite the initial disappointment, have their coaches and parents immensely proud.

U12s Shine in Thrilling Encounter with Creggs

It was a memorable day of rugby as our U12s took to the field in Creggs, demonstrating a remarkable blend of skill, determination, and teamwork. The match was a nail-biter, with both teams evenly matched, making for an exhilarating display of sport.

Our young players, as well as those from Creggs, dug deep, pulling off several impressive breakaway tries that had spectators on the edge of their seats. We are incredibly proud of all the players for their stellar performance and commend both teams for their spirited efforts. Well done to everyone involved.