Garryowen charge back into promotion race

Shannon 17 Garryowen 34

The bonus point they picked up in the dying minutes thanks to a penalty try will help them to keep the pressure on leaders Galwegians and second-placed Ballymena and also boost their confidence heading into the December 27 Munster Cup final against Cork Constitution. The result, however, puts Shannon in even greater danger of relegation.

The bigger and heavier Garryowen pack, including seasoned campaigners like JP Cooney, skipper Dave Sherry and New Zealander Josh Hrstich, dominated almost the entire opening half. They went in front with an early penalty by Jamie Gavin but in spite of constant pressure had to wait until the 20th minute for a fine try by right wing James Frawley that was converted from the touchline by Gavin.