Jordi Murphy crosses twice as Lansdowne romp to win

Blackrock College 12 Lansdowne 40, Stradbrook

Back rower Jordi Murphy crossed for two of Lansdowne’s five tries as they handed Blackrock College a heavy beating at Stradbrook.

Mike Ruddock’s men had the advantage of a strong first half wind and turned around with a 16-0 lead, with the Leinster-capped Murphy touching down after a break from Matt Healy.

The fit-again Craig Ronaldson converted and kicked three penalties, leaving Eric Miller’s hosts with ground to make up in the second period.

‘Rock fell further behind as a sin-binning led to Lansdowne hooker Tom Sexton scoring another try. Murphy added his second shortly afterwards for a 26-0 score-line.

An unconverted effort from Jan-Simon Byrne got Blackrock off the mark, but the bonus point score followed for Lansdowne as man-of-the-match Murphy completed his hat-trick.

Stuart McCarron also crossed in the closing stages for Ruddock’s side, while the home pack gained some plaudits by winning a late penalty try which Rob Keogh converted.

Scorers: Blackrock College: Tries: Penalty try, Jan-Simon Byrne; Con: Rob Keogh

Lansdowne: Tries: Jordi Murphy 3, Tom Sexton, Stuart McCarron; Cons: Craig Ronaldson 3; Pens: Craig Ronaldson 3

HT: Blackrock College 0 Lansdowne 16