Fogarty back in action for Cork Con

Cork Constitution 23 Old Belvedere 12

Denis Fogarty made a try-scoring return from injury in Cork Constitution’s defeat of Division 1A leaders Old Belvedere this afternoon.

Fogarty damaged his shoulder in Munster’s September win over the Ospreys and had to undergo surgery before working his way back to fitness.

The combative hooker was back in action at Temple Hill today, and his 21st minute try set Constitution on their way to a deserved win.

When these sides met at Anglesea Road earlier in the season, a late drop goal from Sean Scanlon gave the Leesiders a 12-9 verdict. In the rematch, they got off to a productive start.

Scrum half Gerry Hurley kicked a penalty and converted a 16th minute try from lock Cathal O’Flaherty, following a well-worked move.

In sunny conditions, Old Belvedere, who came into this game on the back of five straight wins, fell further behind when Fogarty stretched over in the left corner past Daniel Riordan’s despairing tackle.

The conversion was missed and Riordan gained some revenge when he dotted down for his fifth try of the campaign, shortly before half-time. Andy Dunne’s successful conversion made it 15-7 for the break.

Old Belvedere tried to force the issue in the third quarter, but Cork Con continued to prosper. In the 50th minute, team captain Frank Cogan and Billy Holland laid the platform for an unconverted score from lock Brian Hayes.

Hurley added a penalty, with a quarter of an hour remaining, to leave ‘Belvo with a mountain to climb at 23-7 down. Phil Werahiko’s side responded with a five-pointer from replacement Kieran Hurrell, but Cork Con had the points wrapped up and move back into first place.

Scorers: Cork Constitution: Tries: Denis Fogarty, Cathal O’Flaherty, Brian Hayes; Con: Gerry Hurley; Pens: Gerry Hurley 2

Old Belvedere: Tries: Daniel Riordan, Kieran Hurrell; Con: Andy Dunne

HT: Cork Constitution 15 Old Belvedere 7