Clontarf won for the first time in three Ulster Bank League games as they got the better of hosts Terenure College on a 13-3 scoreline at Lakelands Park.
Bouncing back from last week's one-point loss to Cork Constitution, Andy Wood's men returned to Division 1A's summit thanks to the efforts of young half-backs Dermot O'Meara (try) and Joey Carbery (a conversion and two penalties) in a low-scoring but entertaining tie.
The visitors, who had Connacht hooker Jason Harris-Wright making his comeback from injury, built some early pressure, with lively winger Mick McGrath threatening out wide. Terenure's Stephen O'Neill saw yellow for pulling McGrath back, but usually reliable out-half Carbery missed his first two shots at the posts.
His opposite number Jake Swaine slotted a 22nd minute penalty to open Terenure's account, rewarding James O'Donoghue for a determined kick chase. Swaine is one of the youngsters thriving under coach James Blaney's tutelage, with 'Nure fielding six players aged 21 or under tonight.
Carbery suffered a third penalty miss from long range, however his half-back partner O'Meara capitalised on a 'Nure mistake in their 22 to run in a converted try approaching half-time.
With his side now 7-3 to the good, Carbery increased his influence with two well-struck penalty goals after 45 and 51 minutes. Terenure won their last two games against Garryowen and UCD with strong finishes, but their hopes took a hit when flanker Kyle McCoy was sin-binned for taking out a lineout jumper.
14-man Terenure defended stoutly in wet conditions while McCoy was off, and Clontarf were denied a try by a knock-on in the corner. In the end, they did not need it as they got back to winning ways ahead of next week's home fixture with Galwegians. 'Nure face a trip to struggling Ballynahinch in round 7.
Referee: Dudley Phillips (IRFU)
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