Kilroy gives Garryowen the points under the floodlights

Garryowen 19 Buccaneers 8

Garryowen's first AIB League game under the floodlights at Dooradoyle proved a success thanks to man-of-the-match Conor Kilroy.

The experienced full-back booted four penalties and converted Ciaran O'Boyle's try in first-half injury-time to give the light blues their first win of the league campaign.

It was only an hour before kick-off that referee Alan Rogan deemed the pitch playable.

But those who hoped for a bright open game were disappointed because of the terrible conditions, with the wind and rain playing havoc with ball-handling.

Out-half Simon Rolleston, taking over the kicking duties from the injured Alan Gaughan, kicked Buccaneers into an early lead.

But when back rower Kieran O'Gorman was sin-binned after only 11 minutes, the penalty afforded Conor Kilroy the chance to respond for the hosts.

Neither side was able to take the game by the scruff of the neck and Garryowen's 16-3 half-time lead was a tad flattering.

They got on the front foot as the half came to a close, linking well in the backs to put O'Boyle over out wide.

Kilroy, who had kicked two more penalties, then added the extras with a superb kick from the touchline.

Into the second half, Kilroy had another penalty success and Buccaneers, making a real game of it, clawed their way back thanks to a try by Kolo Kiripati after his side turned over possession.

He was later sin-binned while Garryowen centre Conan Doyle was also flashed a yellow card.

It did not matter as Garryowen held firm to take the spoils, with Kilroy their kicking king.

Scorers:

Garryowen: Try: Ciaran O'Boyle; Con: Conor Kilroy; Pens: Conor Kilroy 4

Buccaneers: Try: Kolo Kiripati; Pen: Simon Rolleston

HT: Garryowen 16 Buccaneers 3