In an eagerly anticipated top-of-the-table clash held at Rainey Old Boys, Donegal Town secured a thrilling bonus point victory, characterized by remarkable moments of rugby excellence.
The match commenced with Donegal making an impressive start after their long journey to Magherafelt. James Cleary set the tone with an early try, courtesy of a scintillating line break and a perfectly timed offload by Kez McKeown. However, the conversion attempt by Peteso Cannon fell short, leaving the score at 5-0 in Donegal’s favor.
This early action seemed to awaken the home side, and they responded swiftly with an unconverted try just six minutes later, evening the score at 5-5. Rainey then surged ahead with another unconverted try, indicating their growing momentum and determination to control the game. But the match took a decisive turn when Donegal’s forward pack began to assert their dominance. A formidable driving maul from a lineout provided a strong platform for their agile backline. Gareth McMurray capitalized on this opportunity, touching down under the posts, and Peteso Cannon’s precise conversion swung the score in Donegal’s favor at 12-10.
The latter stages of the first half saw both teams conceding penalties, yet their respective defences held firm. At half-time, Donegal maintained a slender 12-10 lead.
Rainey emerged stronger in the second half, quickly scoring another try, although it went unconverted and rebounded off the post. However, Donegal’s disciplined approach and focus on their game plan turned the tide in their favor. James Cleary showcased his scoring prowess with a second try, initiated by a crossfield run from Tom Barker. Kez McKeown added to the spectacle by stepping his way under the posts from a considerable distance, and Peteso Cannon comfortably added the extra points, extending Donegal’s lead to 26-15.
Having secured the coveted bonus point, Donegal Town intensified their attack. A mighty maul deep into Rainey territory paved the way for Gerry Curtis to bulldoze his way over the try line, dragging several defenders with him.
The match’s final flourish came when Cian Barden intercepted a pass at close range and dotted down under the posts. Peteso Cannon’s precise kicking boot was on display again, successfully converting 5/6.
The standout performance of the match was credited to Donegal Town’s #9, Denis McMenamin, who exhibited superb control and leadership from the opening whistle to the final minute, earning him the well-deserved Man of the Match award.
