UCD Surge Clear In Second Half

New Bruff boss Mike Lynch called on his young side to show more ‘self belief’ after their failure to notch a try-scoring bonus point against Ballymena last Saturday.

They got off to a solid start against the students, with out-half Brian Carroll slotting an early penalty. However, James Thornton was quick to reply for the hosts after Bruff were caught offside.

‘College kicked on then with a move off the top of a lineout sending big winger Barry Daly over in the right corner for a five-pointer.

Although their strongly-built pack made good headway, Bruff were unable to convert their pressure into points. Their forwards were thwarted five metres out on a couple of occasions and a second Thornton penalty gave UCD an 11-3 interval buffer.

The Limerick side defended well in and around half-time and were able to add a try from in-form full-back Brendan Deady, but UCD’s class came to the fore after that.

Further tries from Shane Grannell, Mark McGroarty, Alex Kelly, Sam Coghlan Murray and lively replacement Jordan Coghlan exhibited the gulf of young talent currently at UCD’s disposal.

The Leinster-capped Coghlan was brought on at inside centre for the second half and caused a huge amount of problems for the Bruff defence, bursting through midfield on a number of occasions.

Coghlan played in the back row for the Ireland Under-20s last season, but Leinster are taking the option of looking at him at number 12 due to his strong running and handling skills.

As Bruff tired and UCD put more width on the ball after the resumption, 'College really revelled in the open space and their expansive style helped them get the scores to put the result beyond any doubt.

It was clinical play from the well-drilled students and another statement of intent from them as Bruff, like Belfast Harlequins, are no bad side.

Referee: David Connolly (IRFU)