Tullamore's survival prospects boosted by hard fought win

Tullamore showcased grit and determination to overturn a three-point deficit in the final 20 minutes, securing a hard-fought six-point victory over Omagh at Spollanstown. In a game marked by intensity and resilience, Tullamore’s ability to stay composed under pressure proved decisive.

All-Ireland Rugby League Division 2C

Tullamore 16

Omagh 10

Tullamore started on the front foot, dominating possession and stretching Omagh’s defence repeatedly. Both Adam Carthy and Fionán Redmond came agonizingly close to scoring, only to be held up over the line. However, it was Omagh who struck first with a well-taken penalty, capitalizing on a rare Tullamore infringement.

The home side responded almost immediately with a brilliantly executed team try. From a lineout secured by Redmond, the ball moved through the hands to Adam Carthy in midfield, who burst over the gain line. Scrum-half Eoin O’Reilly swiftly fed captain Ciarán Ennis, who showed his rugby IQ by drawing defenders before lofting a precise pass to Conor Dunne. Dunne broke into space and linked up with his brother Karl, who set up Liam Farrell on the wing. Farrell drew in the last defender and released Scott Bradley, who finished superbly in the corner. Conor Dunne added the extras with a pinpoint touchline conversion. Both sides exchanged penalties late in the half, leaving the score at 10-6 to Tullamore at the break.

The restart saw Tullamore struggle to clear their lines, and Omagh capitalized with an early try to take the lead. However, the setback seemed to galvanize the home team. For the next 15 minutes, Tullamore camped inside Omagh’s half, relentlessly probing for weaknesses in their defence. Their perseverance paid off when Conor Dunne converted a penalty to level the scores with just under 20 minutes remaining. Five minutes later, Tullamore found themselves in front again. A lineout infringement by Omagh, compounded by dissent, allowed Dunne to attempt a long-range penalty from the 10-meter line near the touchline. His effort, though dramatic, proved successful, ricocheting off the post and crossbar before creeping over to restore Tullamore’s three-point advantage.

In the closing stages, Marty Cummins was instrumental, securing two vital restarts to maintain Tullamore’s momentum. Conor Dunne’s tactical kicking also played a significant role in pinning Omagh deep in their territory. Veteran Cathal Feighery forced a crucial turnover by holding up Omagh’s fullback, and the resulting scrum pressure yielded another penalty. Dunne coolly slotted a final touchline penalty to extend the lead to six points and seal the win.

Marty Cummins was a standout performer in the pack, providing stability and leadership in the crucial moments. His second-row partner, Fionán Redmond, continued his impressive form with a commanding performance. In the backs, Conor Dunne’s kicking was exceptional, while Liam Farrell and Scott Bradley added pace and creativity.This victory sees Tullamore leapfrog Omagh in the standings, now sitting just one point behind Bruff. The team travels to Belfast Harlequins next weekend for a pivotal clash, brimming with confidence and determination after this hard-fought win.

TULLAMORE: 1. Alan Douglas, 2. Shane Minnock, 3. Matthew Murphy, 4. Marty Cummins, 5. Fionan Redmond, 6. Adam Carthy, 7. Gavin Ridgeway, 8. Ciaran Ennis (C), 9. Eoin 0'Reilly, 10. Karl Dunne, 11. Sean McCabe, 12. Conor Dunne. 13. Scott Milne, 14. Scott Bradley, 15. Liam Farrell.