Munster's Murphy back for UL Bohemians

DIVISION 1B: UL Bohemians 19 Lansdowne 9

Munster's Barry Murphy made a welcome return from a lengthy injury-enforced absence to play a crucial role in this All-Ireland League win for UL Bohemians.

Murphy was introduced at half-time, replacing Ed Torrie, and it was his interception on halfway which clinched the win as he raced in for a spectacular score which JJ Hanrahan converted.

In the opening half, persistent pressure eventually paid off for the home side when centre David Moloney got in for a try, but Hanmrahan's conversion came back off the upright. That was in the 14th minute and five minutes later, Lansdowne number 10 Eoghan Hickey kicked a penalty for his side.

An attempted clearance by Lansdowne was charged down by Kieran Essex in the 24th minute and the ball bounced into the hands of Munster flanker Tommy O'Donnell who went over untouched.

This time Hanrahan landed the conversion but the game was still there for either side when Hickey landed a second penalty to make it 12-6 at the break.

All a disappointing Lansdowne side could manage in the second half was a third penalty by Hickey, leaving UL Bohs to lift the Mick English Cup for the first time, a trophy to commemorate the former Munster, Ireland and Lions player who lined out for both of these clubs during his stellar career.

Scorers: UL Bohemians: Tries: David Moloney, Tommy O’Donnell, Barry Murphy; Cons: JJ Hanrahan 2

Lansdowne: Pens: Eoghan Hickey 3