Dublin University Football Club (DUFC) Women started their league campaign in Leinster Division Three with a loss, falling to a 22-10 defeat against Greystones Rugby Football Club yesterday. A spirited performance from DUFC’s hurriedly-assembled side ultimately proved fruitless as Greystones ran out easy winners in Wicklow.
After postponing their first game of the season due to a lack of numbers, DUFC entered into Sunday’s clash with several new players in the starting line-up. After going down to a converted try early doors, Trinity hit back quickly with a try of their own, scored by Grace Quinlivan. Some clever buildup play allowed Trinity to gain territory. Several phases later, a quick pass down the short-side allowed Quinlivan the opportunity to get across the line, an opportunity of which she took full and emphatic advantage. DUFC were impressive in possession thereafter, but could not convert their patient buildup into points on the board. They trailed 7-5 at the break.
Trinity came out of the blocks the quicker of the two teams in the second half, and took the lead when Niamh O’Kelly-Lynch touched down after a clever line break from outhalf Charlotte Bowen. However, it was not to last. After DUFC lost key players Jane Leahy and Dia O’Rourke to injuries midway through the second half, Greystones came back strongly, scoring three unanswered tries to put the game beyond the reach of DUFC.
A disappointing day, then, for Trinity, although there were encouraging signs. Several freshers made an impact in spite of the result, and – particularly if they can grow the squad – Joe Horan’s side will hope to improve on yesterday’s performance over the course of the season. They will be determined to add a ruthlessness to their game, something they will need to incorporate if they are to maintain their place in the Leinster Division Three.
