AIL Rugby: Clontarf run Blackrock close

Blackrock 35 Clonarf 21

Clontarf ran Blackrock close at Stradbrook before succumbing to late tries in this opening All Ireland League fixture.

The home side were able to call on the experience of former Lions lock, Paul Wallace in the second half while fellow Leinster panelists, Bob Casey and Ben Willis were also given a run out after the interval.

Blackrock had led 20-18 at the interval and although Clontarf outhalf, James Dempsey, managed to kick his side ahead, completing a remarkable 15 point turnaround, Rock rallied with the boot of Emmet Farrell combined with second half scores from Gary Browne and Willis securing a comfortable victory in the end.