Mens Connacht J1C League – Carrick 30 – Ballina 11

Carrick secured a solid home victory over Ballina last Sunday, winning 30-11. While the scoreline suggests comfort, it was only in the final 15 minutes that Carrick’s supporters could relax.

Playing against the wind, Carrick started strong, with Dan Bosquette producing a brilliant mazy run, only for Ballina’s defense to deny a try. Ballina responded with sustained pressure, but Carrick’s defense, led by McGhee, Healy, Price, Haven, and Flanagan, held firm. A try-saving tackle from Bosquette at fullback epitomized Carrick’s defensive effort. Ballina eventually broke through with a Cian Anderson penalty, matched soon after by Ruairi King.

Approaching halftime, a sublime grubber kick from Anderson set up Darren Padden for a corner try, leaving Ballina ahead 8-3 at the break.

The second half began with another exchange of penalties, making it 11-6 to Ballina. Midway through the half, Bosquette struck again, spotting a gap inside his own half and delivering a stunning solo try. King’s conversion gave Carrick a 13-11 lead.

Carrick pushed on from there, with Bosquette sparking another attack before offloading to Dermot Foley, who was stopped just short. From the ruck, substitute Denis McCaffrey powered over for a try, converted by King to stretch the lead to 20-11. Ballina nearly responded, but a penalty struck the post, allowing James Og Maguire to clear the danger.

Carrick capitalized with another King penalty before John Healy sealed the win late on with a well-taken try, again converted by King. The final score read 30-11.

Carrick Squad:

Dan Bosquette, Jordan Haven, Jack Price, John Healy, Dean Flanagan, Ian McGhee, Ruairi King, Robert McCaffrey, Ian Cullen, Gavin Kelly, Peter Lavin, Declan Kelly, Gareth Barry, Sean Hynes, Stephen Guckian.

Subs: Brendan Flannery, James Og Maguire, Denis McCaffrey, Dermot Foley, Brian King, Kieran Murray, Domenico Adams, Jason Carney.

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