CONNACHT RUGBY JUNIOR 1B LEAGUE
Ballinasloe 32
Ballinrobe 16
BALLINASLOE
Ballinrobe's promotion push came down to one match, but unfortunately for the South Mayo men, it didn't turn out to be a happy ending. Ballinasloe proved too strong and too well-drilled for the Mayo men and secured their own passage to the top tier next season.
In an extremely physical rugby match, Ballinasloe turned the screw on the visitors early on and built a healthy 20-13 half-time lead. The Galway side's back row were powerful ball carriers, most of all number 8 Stephen Grenham.
Their line-out worked like a clockwork, and first ball carrier, centre John Hayes irresistibly waltzed over the gain line time and time again.
Ballinrobe knew they had at least to win the game to win promotion, while also denying Ballinasloe bonus points. Some feared before the match, that it might even come down to points difference.
But Ballinasloe made sure halfway through the second half, that all calculations were unnecessary as they extended their lead to 32-16 just past the hour mark.
Ballinrobe captain Sean Mullin showed his prowess, winning numerous turnovers at the breakdown. Fly-half Dylan Keane showed his class, but there was to be no revival for the Mayo men.
Several substitutions due to injuries paid witness to the physicality of this encounter.
Ballinrobe's promotion dream is over, but they came to the final hurdle and fought right until the end, however Ballinasloe frustrated their efforts and denied the men in black and white a try in the second half.
A full match report will be carried in Tuesday's Mayo News.