Sexton’s finishing powers Mary’s over the line on final day of title drama

You could hardly have asked for a more exciting and dramatic finale to the Ulster Bank League Division 1A title battle on Saturday, with St Mary’s College claiming the prize with a late try against Young Munster to deny Clontarf whose late victory over Lansdowne was not enough.

Mark Sexton, brother of international Jonathan, proved to be the hero as the title went back to Templeville Road for the first time in 12 years. He came off the bench to score two crucial tries, the second in the 78th minute, against a dogged 14-man Young Munster side, who produced a marvellous rearguard performance in the last quarter to do everything but deny the home side.

Darragh O’Neill’s red card offence for a tip tackle in the sixth minute threatened to turn this game into a one-sided affair. But Young Munster were well worth their 13-3 half-time lead with the forwards forcing St Mary’s to play second fiddle.