Match Report: Mullingar vs Boyne - Leinster League Division 1B

On a beautiful autumn day bathed in sunshine, league leaders Mullingar faced second-place Boyne in a much-anticipated clash in the Leinster League Division 1B. Both teams entered the match with high stakes, as Boyne aimed to close the gap at the top of the table while Mullingar sought to solidify their lead.

First Half: Dominant Start by Mullingar

Mullingar opened the scoring early with a penalty try awarded from a powerful driving maul, putting them up 7-0 and setting the tone for a physically dominant game. Not long after, Mullingar capitalized again: a strong break by Maias Pfaff brought them close to the line, where the forwards powered over, with Lee Mitchell getting the final touch to extend the lead to 14-0.

Mullingar’s third try showcased their opportunistic play. Hooker Brian Reidy intercepted a Boyne pass and offloaded to winger Daire Conway, who sprinted clear to score under the posts. The straightforward conversion brought Mullingar into halftime with a commanding 21-0 lead.

Second Half: Boyne Responds, Mullingar Holds Firm

Boyne began the second half determined to find a way back, but Mullingar struck first. A well-executed set play freed Niall Hannon, who burst into Boyne’s 22. Quick recycling allowed Anthony McGivney to make a break; he drew his defender before delivering a sharp offload to Eoin Conlon, who finished in the corner. The lead stretched to 26-0, and Mullingar looked in complete control.

Boyne, however, refused to go down quietly and mounted a spirited comeback with two tries in quick succession, closing the gap and injecting some excitement into the final stages. But Mullingar’s defense tightened up, and in the closing minutes, Niall Derham intercepted another pass, racing away to score and seal the victory with a final score of 33-12.