UCC Complete Double Over Bohs
Two late tries were not sufficient for UL Bohemians to peg back UCC at Thomond Park after the visitors led 13-3 at half-time.
It was UL Bohs' first defeat in five Ulster Bank League games and saw the Cork students complete a season's double over UL, following on from their 32-23 success at the Mardyke in November.
With their pack in cohesive form, UCC dominated the first half and fully deserved their 13-3 interval lead. UL put in an error-strewn display and struggled to stamp their mark on the game.
The Munster-capped Andrew Burke landed an early penalty for UCC who then had a try from prolific prop John Ryan in the 22nd minute.
Burke converted and the talented centre made it 13-0 with another penalty two minutes before the break.
Full-back Ed Torrie booted a penalty for Bohs on the stroke of half-time, and in the 43rd minute centre David Moloney broke in under the posts for a try which Torrie converted.
But two tries in a productive five-minute spell around the hour made sure of the away win. Joe Holland, who was a late call-up to the backs division, and lock Michael Kenefick were the scorers.
Replacement Kieran Essex and Torrie cut the gap for UL with a couple of late tries, but a losing bonus point was the only reward for Ian Costello's side.
Torrie's score in the final minute was the best of the afternoon, with Essex kickstarting the move deep in the Bohs' half. Cian Aherne, captain Martin McPhail and Moloney all handled the ball in a flowing attack before Torrie made it over in the corner.
UL's lineout proved problematic for them and their backs did not trouble the Cork side's defence until the final 15 minutes.
The victory has moved UCC up to fifth in the Division 1B table, five points clear of bottom side Galwegians. They entertain 'Wegians in their next game on March 26.
Referee: Mark Patton (IRFU)