Co Cavan RFC and Enniskillen share spoils in thrilling league opener

Youth Boys U16s

Co Cavan RFC 17

Enniskillen RFC 17

Co Cavan RFC U16s opened their league campaign with a hard-fought 17-17 draw against Enniskillen at Swellan Park on Saturday, having twice led.

The visitors struck first with an unconverted try midway through the opening half. Co Cavan RFC responded through their forwards before moving the ball wide, where Adam Johnston broke through to level the scores at 5-5.

The hosts finished the first half strongly. Max Hanly spotted space and broke from the back of a ruck to create Cavan’s second try, with the conversion giving Co Cavan RFC a 12-5 interval lead.

Enniskillen resumed with renewed purpose and sustained pressure, earning a converted try early in the second half to level the scores at 12-12. Co Cavan RFC regained the lead midway through the second half as swift handling created space for Jensen Brady to finish superbly in the corner. The try put the hosts 17-12 ahead with ten minutes remaining.

Enniskillen responded with four minutes remaining, touching down to level the contest at 17-17 and set up a dramatic finish.

Co Cavan RFC pressed for a late winner, pinning Enniskillen inside their own 22, but the visitors defended resolutely to secure a share of the points.

The draw fittingly concluded a competitive league opener marked by determination, resilience and attacking intent from both teams.

Co Cavan RFC Team: Odhran Smith, Richard Burke (Captain), Shay Sheridan, Patrick Geraghty, John McCarren, Morgan McGuire, Finn McGoldrick, Jack Tracey, Max Hanly, Fionn O'Reilly, Ethan Black, Conor Boylan, Adam Johnston, Jensen Brady, Daniel King; replacements: Harry Clarke, Karl Sexton, Jamie McGovern, Charlie Murdy, Harry Sharkey-Smith, Johnny King and Kyle Heaslip.