Dominant display sees Mountmellick CS march into rugby semi-final

Mountmellick CS 57 

Selskar College 0 

MOUNTMELLICK Community School Junior rugby team delivered a spectacular and clinical performance on Thursday last when crushing Selskar College with a comprehensive 57-0 victory in their highly anticipated Leinster Rugby Junior Development Shield quarter-final clash.

This commanding win secures the talented squad's comfortable progression into the semi-finals of the competition where they will take on Creagh College.

Right from the opening whistle, Mountmellick controlled the tempo, generating relentless pressure through powerful forward surges and sharp, decisive movements from the backline. The team's organisation in defence was equally impressive, repeatedly shutting down Selskar's few attempts at attack with disciplined and aggressive tackling, maintaining a clean sheet throughout the entire 60 minutes.

The scoring began early, setting the tone for the afternoon. The pack laid a solid foundation, ensuring quality ball from the set-piece and breakdown. This platform allowed the half-backs to effectively unleash the speed and creativity of the centres and wings.

Key moments included several outstanding individual efforts, but the victory was truly defined by seamless teamwork.

The final tally of 57 points was built on the foundation of nine superb tries (and six accurate conversions showcasing the squad's high-level execution and ensuring their dominance never wavered.

The replacements bench was emptied in the second half, allowing all members of the match-day squad to contribute to the impressive scoreline.

The success of the team was lauded by the coaching staff, Mr. Byrne and Ms. Brophy.

Mr. Byrne commented after the game, "I couldn't be prouder of the lads. That scoreline is a testament to the hard work, especially the commitment shown in defence. To keep a team scoreless in a quarter-final is a huge achievement. We'll enjoy the win today, but we'll be looking to focus back up for the semi-final."

Mountmellick CS will now host Creagh College in the semi-final at Portlaoise RFC, Togher. The match date is still to be confirmed. With such a well-drilled and talented team, the Junior side looks poised to make a serious push for the title.