Bates stars as Coláiste Mhuire reach Duff Cup final

In a thrilling Duff Cup semi-final at Cill Dara RFC Coláiste Mhuire, Mullingar triumphed 29-17 over CBS Enniscorthy, making history by reaching their first-ever Duff Cup final.

Coláiste Mhuire made a strong start, with Ryan Scott crossing over after a turnover from Luke Tully in the opening 10 minutes. Shortly after, Zak Bates dashed through the CBS Enniscorthy defence from halfway to score, with Luke Tully adding the conversion. Enniscorthy responded with a well-worked try from their number 12, who ran the length of the pitch from their own 22.

Coláiste Mhuire then capitalised on a brilliant kick from Callum McHugh, allowing Bates to score again. Enniscorthy were awarded a penalty for an offside, but the kick went wide.

Just before halftime, McHugh received a yellow card, and Enniscorthy seized the opportunity, scoring a try from the resulting penalty, although they missed the conversion. At the break, Coláiste Mhuire led 17-10.

The second half saw Bates complete his hat-trick with a well-taken try, which was converted by Conor Williams. Despite Enniscorthy’s fight, Coláiste Mhuire extended their lead with another try, this time from Zack O’Brien. Enniscorthy managed a late try and conversion from a scrum, but it was too little, too late.

The final score was 29-17, sending Coláiste Mhuire into the Duff Cup final for the first time. Zak Bates was named Man of the Match for his outstanding performance, scoring three tries.

Congratulations to Ms Leogue, Mr Blighe and our rugby officers, Clare and Mati.