Wexford woes as Kilkenny Firsts suffer Leinster League loss

Kilkenny’s poor start to their Leinster campaign continued as Wexford Wanderers delivered a dominant performance, beating the Cats 29-14.

Wexford took control early, scoring their first try within nine minutes, with out-half Donal Buckley adding the conversion to make it 7-0. Out-half Donal Buckley converted, putting the home side ahead 7-0.

Moments later, Wexford struck again, slicing through Kilkenny’s defence for a second try, extending their lead to 14-0.

Despite a strong showing from Kilkenny’s scrum, led by Brian Howe, Ben Devlin and Josh Evans, a few crooked lineout throws disrupted their usual rhythm, allowing Wexford to capitalise. Ben McGuinness scored a third try, pushing Wexford ahead 21-0.

A shift came when Wexford received two yellow cards in quick succession, giving Kilkenny a lifeline. They took advantage, with Joey Manuel crossing the try line after sustained pressure, bringing the halftime score to 21-7.

Wexford’s woes continued after the break with another yellow card for a deliberate knock-on. However, Kilkenny also suffered a setback as Ciaran Neil-Smith was shown yellow shortly after. Wexford took advantage, converting a penalty to make it 24-7.

Kilkenny fought back with Steve Atkinson scoring a try, and Dan O’Neill adding the conversion, closing the gap to 24-14.

However, the game became chaotic with handling errors and misplaced kicks. Wexford was shown a straight red card for an off-the-ball incident involving Atkinson. Despite being a man up, Kilkenny couldn’t capitalise on the opportunity. In the dying minutes, Wexford secured their bonus point with a fourth try, sealing a decisive 29-14 victory.

Kilkenny’s players and supporters were left disappointed by the loss, and the coaching staff will need to regroup as they prepare for a crucial match against Boyne RFC on Sunday in Foulkstown. This defeat leaves Kilkenny third from the bottom of the Leinster League table.

Kilkenny - Brian Howe, Ben Devlin, Josh Evans, Andrew Warner, Jake Caldbeck, Joe Manuel, Jonathan Young, Garry Dunne, Steven Atkinson, Daniel O’Neill, Ciaran Neil-Smith, Wesley Carter, Nehuen Rossetti, Geoff Power, Axel Montgomery.

Replacements: Charlie Buckley, Conan Dunne, David O’Connor, Aaron Askins, Caleb Hogan Eyre.

Wexford Wanderers - Carthaigh Geoghegan, Kevin Redmond, Brian Donohoe, Louis Gainfort, Michael Cleary, Sean Cullen, Ben McGuinness, Vincent Carroll, Ruairi Fenlon, Donal Buckley, Aaron O’Neill, Colm O’Corcora, Shane McGuinness, Sean Logue, Stuart Hession.

Replacements: Eoin Walsh, Bobby Clancy, Jack O’Leary, Ryan Hanrahan, Alan Hawkins.

Seconds win

Kilkenny’s Second XV had more joy in Wexford on Sunday, winning 20-10.

Despite a slow start characterised by handling errors, Kilkenny rallied after going down 5-0 early in the game to secure a hard-fought victory.

The first half saw Kilkenny struggling to find their rhythm, with several unforced errors hindering their momentum. Wexford capitalised on these mistakes, taking an early lead.

However, as the half progressed, Kilkenny began to find their footing. Liam O’Neill showed great determination to break through the Wexford defence, scoring Kilkenny’s first try and igniting the team’s comeback. Further tries followed from Joe Connolly and Henry Tennyson.

The match concluded with Kilkenny celebrating a well-deserved win, showcasing their depth and resilience as they look ahead to the next fixture. The coaching staff will undoubtedly be pleased with the response shown after a shaky start, as the players continue to develop and build chemistry on the field.

There were notable performances from Liam McWey, who returned from injury to play at loosehead prop and had a fine game.

Winger Tommy Murphy, in his first game for the club, was also a standout, as was all action back row player Joe Connolly.