Archer on target as Con claim win

MUNSTER prop, Stephen Archer, notched the all-important try for Cork Constitution as they overcame Division 1A pacesetters, St Mary’s College, 16-9 in a closely-fought AIB League tie at Temple Hill.

Archer has enjoyed several outings in the provincial shirt this season but his return to club colours ensured Con enjoyed supremacy in the forward exchanges. The former CBC schoolboy went over for a 55th minute try which, when converted by Scott Deasy, pushed the hosts 10-6 in front.

Former UCC No 10 Gavin Dunne handed the Dublin side a 6-3 half-time advantage with two first half penalties but Con’s careful game-management on the turnover proved decisive. Deasy followed up his conversion with a penalty before Daragh Lyons made it 16-6 with a fine drop goal. However, six minutes from time, Dunne secured the bonus point for the Leinster side, a kick that cemented Marys’ place at the top of the division.