Gorey J1s secure bonus point to finish third

Gorey's first team ended their league campaign with a bonus point win over Malahide on a score of 24 - 11.

This was probably one of the youngest teams ever to take the field for Gorey with 7 players aged 20 and under.

This was a magnificent performance with Captain J.P. Redmond opening the scoring with a wonderful try after a great turn of speed from the big forward.

Aidan O Brien converted.

The Gorey back row of Ben Horan, Michael Woods and Jordan Ahearne were rampant and causing the visitors all sorts of problems and Gorey's second try was not long in coming when Jordan Ahearne crashed over for the second try after some great forward play.

Malahide came more into the game but found the home defence difficult to breakdown and at halftime had just a penalty to show for a lot of hard work.

Gorey though were to finish the half with their third try when Ben Horan found himself on the end of a Gorey maul to finish the half on a score of 17 - 3.

The second half was more of the same as Gorey went back on the attack and playing into the strong wind pushed Malahide deep into their 22. Again the pack laid the foundation and from a turnover at a scrum, Scrum-half Garrett Batter sliced through the Malahide defence to go in under the posts and secure the bonus point. Aidan O Brien converted.

Malahide to be fair never gave up and soon reduced the score with a penalty. They now were throwing caution to the wind and ran at Gorey at every chance. Gorey stood firm and defended their line well. Finally Malahide got a try but it was too little too late as the match ended to a delighted home support.

In a great pack performance Tom Tomkins, Ciaran Smith, Jordan Ahearne and man of the match Michael Woods were outstanding. With The Bater brothers Matt and Garrett and Brian Dennehy showing well in a lively backline.

Gorey have a bye in the plate and will meet the winners of Carlow or Naas to be arranged .

Gorey:-

Smith B O Connor T Tomkins S Gardiner JP Redmond capt. M Woods B Horan J Ahearne G Bater A O Brien S O Connor M Bater J Mannion K Breen S Duke B Dennehy D O Leary PJ Clince C Allen N Cousins