Kenny proves a real handful as Carlow backs too hot for Athlone

CARLOW IT claimed the IRCU Division 1 title with a very impressive 30-17 win against Athlone IT at the CIT campus, Bishopstown yesterday evening.

The Gerry Walsh-managed team ran in five tries to claim the honours against a spirited Athlone side after 80 minutes of supremely intense rugby. In the end, exceptionally powerful running from the Carlow backs proved to be the key difference between the teams, with Alan Kenny deserving much of the plaudits as he ran in a try in either half.

David Hegarty scored their opening try a quarter-of-an-hour into the contest with a move that saw Carlow recycle the ball incredibly quickly, before Kenny galloped into the corner after evading two Athlone tackles en route to opening up a completely warranted 15-3 lead at the break.