Gavin inspires Garryowen to win

Clontarf 13 Garryowen 23

Out-half Jamie Gavin ran the show for Garryowen as they came away from Castle Avenue with a prized win over north Dublin heavyweights Clontarf today.

Former Clontarf captain Barry O’Mahony, now clad in light blue, was hoping to put one over on the hosts, tweeting beforehand about coming ‘back to the Bull Ring for the first time’.

And his presence in the Garryowen back row along with Shane Buckley and Thomas Anderson was crucial as the Limerick side made it two victories out of two in Division 1A.

After a delayed kick-off due to the referee‘s late arrival, Garryowen were first off the mark thanks to a drop goal from influential youngster Gavin.

The hosts were unable to make best use of their lion’s share of possession and a penalty from Gavin, tucked away from in front of the posts, made it 6-0.

The Light Blues were on the back foot coming up to half-time and leaked three points to Richie Lane.

The ‘Tarf full-back squared things up early in the second period, only for Garryowen to raise their game.

They took advantage of a series of missed tackles to send Gavin in for a converted 50th minute try.

Despite suffering a sin-binning, Tom Tierney’s men remained in control with Gavin’s second converted try and a neatly-struck drop goal completing his full house of points.

A late try from number 8 Martin Garvey was mere consolation for a Clontarf team that struggled to make an impact in the second half, leaving them winless from their opening two league fixtures.

Scorers:

Clontarf: Try: Martin Garvey; Con: Richie Lane; Pens: Richie Lane 2

Garryowen: Tries: Jamie Gavin 2; Cons: Jamie Gavin 2; Pens: Jamie Glynn 2; Drop: Jamie Glynn