Champions Old Belvedere lose season opener

YOUNG MUNSTER 23 OLD BELVEDERE 19

Old Belvedere's Ulster Bank League title defence got off to a losing start as they were turned over by a hungry Young Munster side at Tom Clifford Park.

Munsters prevailed thanks to a last-minute try from full-back Ray Moloney. The Dubliners rushed a clearance just at the finish and Moloney grabbed possession and jinked in for a try which sparked scene of jubilation for the home supporters who had resigned themselves to defeat.

In what had been a kicking shootout between Young Munster out-half Willie Staunton and his opposite number, 'Belvo's Conal Keane, it was Staunton who struck first. But two well-hit penalties from Keane had the visitors 6-3 in front.

Staunton brought the Cookies level and although Keane was able to reward his pack with two more successful penalties, a brace from Staunton levelled things up for half-time at 12-12.

Two minutes into the second half, Staunton missed narrowly and it was Old Belvedere who collected the game's only try. Replacement hooker Kevin Buckley crashed over and Keane added the conversion for a decisive-looking 19-12 lead.

However, Munsters' resilience was rewarded. Staunton knocked over two more penalties, taking his haul to 18 points and following up on good work from player-coach Mike Prendergast and the forwards once again.

The hosts pressed for another score and after Staunton was inches away with a drop goal attempt, Moloney swooped to score out wide and secure an encouraging opening win for the Limerick side.

Scorers:

Young Munster: Try: Ray Moloney; Pens: Willie Staunton 6

Old Belvedere: Try: Kevin Buckley; Con: Conal Keane; Pens: Conal Keane 4

HT: Young Munster 12 Old Belvedere 12