Derby Victory For UL Bohs
Local rivals UL Bohemians and Bruff swapped six tries as they played out an exciting derby clash in Ulster Bank League Division 1B on Saturday.
In a gripping climax, a try from UL Bohs captain Martin McPhail, which was converted by Ed Torrie, gave the hosts the match points and their third league victory on the trot.
Bruff had to be content with a losing bonus point after they put in a fine second half display.
Torrie, who started at out-half in place of JJ Hanrahan, had Bohs in front with a penalty after seven minutes. But soon afterwards, lock Maurice O'Connell muscled over for Bruff's first try.
The visitors added a second touchdown from player-coach Eoin Cahill, with his brother Brian supplying the conversion for a 12-3 scoreline.
UL hit back with a try from full-back Darren Moroney, which Torrie converted. Torrie also added a penalty from 40 metres out to make it 13-12 to Ian Costello's side at the break.
Two minutes into the second half, winger Cian Aherne waltzed past a series of defenders for a well-taken try and Torrie's third successful penalty had Bohs within touching distance of another fine result at 21-12.
Bruff are noted for being strong finishers and two penalties from Brian Cahill, allied to a converted try from full-back Brendan Deady, launched the All-Ireland Cup finalists back into the lead.
However, McPhail's late try – his fourth of the campaign – was topped over by Torrie for the perfect response from in-form Bohs.
Referee: John Carvill (IRFU)