Old Belvedere win earns survival hope

Cork Constitution 22 Old Belvedere 25

Old Belvedere dug deep to secure their fourth straight league win at Temple Hill this afternoon, which gives them a fighting chance at avoiding relegation to Division 1B.

The three-point triumph over Cork Constitution in a repeat of last season’s top flight final saw ‘Belvo finish second-from-bottom in the table and set up a play-off clash with Belfast Harlequins on Saturday, May 5.

The winners of that fixture will play in Division 1A next season, and if Old Belvedere complete their great escape it will be a stunning run of results under recently appointed head coach Andy Dunne.

Leading 15-5 at the break on Leeside, the Dubliners had to stave off a second half comeback from the hosts who had tries from backs Cathal Quinn and Johnny Holland and flanker Brian O’Hara.

But ‘Belvo had enough in the tank to get over the finish line, with a touchdown from Leinster’s Leo Auva’a adding to tries from tricky outside backs David Mongan and Daniel Riordan.

Young out-half Gearoid McDonald also had a vital contribution, ending the afternoon with 10 points from four successful kicks at goal.

Scorers:

Cork Constitution: Tries: Cathal Quinn, Brian O’Hara, Johnny Holland; Cons: Gerry Hurley 2; Pen: Gerry Hurley

Old Belvedere: Tries: David Mongan, Daniel Riordan, Leo Auva’a; Cons: Gearoid McDonald 2; Pens: Gearoid McDonald 2