Shannon scrape win over Co Carlow

Shannon 25 County Carlow 12

Champions Shannon moved up to third, but failed to impress in wet conditions at Thomond Park.

Two minutes from the end, Irish Colleges winger Pat O’Connor struck the decisive blow as he touched down in the corner after an Andrew Thompson incision.

O’Connor’s score proved to be the only try of a disappointing encounter.

Centre Greg Jacob kicked two penalties on 20 and 36 minutes to see bottom side Carlow go in at the break with a 6-3 lead.

Jacob added two more after the break, but Shannon out-half Dave Delaney eclipsed him, hitting six penalties for an 18-point haul.

Scorers: Shannon: Try: Pat O’Connor; Con: Dave Delaney; Pens: Delaney 6

Carlow: Pens: Greg Jacob 4