Second-half surge fires Portarlington to opening-day victory over Edenderry
Photo: Alf Harvey
Portarlington 29
Portarlington 29
PORTARLINGTON opened their 2026/27 Leinster League Division 2B campaign in impressive fashion, producing a powerful second-half display to overturn a six-point deficit and secure a deserved 29-18 victory over neighbours Edenderry on Sunday.
Ross Doyle's side looked to be facing an uphill battle at the interval as the visitors led 18-12 after an opening half in which Edenderry appeared the sharper and more physical outfit. Matters were made even more difficult for the hosts when influential forward Dev McLaughlin was forced off through injury.
Despite not being at their fluent best in the opening period, Portarlington still showed flashes of quality. Miguel Meras crossed for a well-taken try and was outstanding throughout, contributing heavily in both attack and defence, while Eoin Worrell also impressed whenever opportunities arose.
Whatever was said in the home dressing room at half-time had the desired effect. Portarlington emerged a transformed side for the second period, playing with greater intensity and purpose while dominating possession and territory.
The platform was laid by an excellent collective effort, with Tom Wheeler, Andy Evans and Darragh Perry all driving the side forward. Aron Costello carried strongly throughout, while captain Toby Neilson-Dry made a significant impact with his work rate and physical presence.
Portarlington's resurgence was rewarded when Worrell finished off an excellent move following quality work from a set-piece to score a superb try. With momentum firmly on their side, the hosts continued to press and eventually secured the all-important bonus point when number eight Jack Hennessy powered over, continuing the rich vein of form he displayed last season.
Edenderry simply could not stem the tide as Portarlington controlled both possession and territory during a one-sided second half. Evans put the finishing touches on an excellent afternoon when he landed a late penalty to stretch the margin to 11 points.
The result handed Portarlington maximum points from their opening outing and will leave head coach Doyle delighted with both the character and structure shown by his side, particularly given the absence and loss of several key players.
There was also a welcome return for Stephen Oakley, whose energetic contribution from the bench helped maintain Portarlington's momentum during the second half.
Adding to the occasion was a large attendance at the club grounds, which looked in outstanding condition for the league opener.
Miguel Meras; Simon Dogget, Eoin Worrell, Daragh Perry, Peter Dunne; Andrews Evans, Jack Hennessy; Darag Jewel, Devlin McLoughlin, James Dunne; Toby Neilson-Dry, Jack McCann; Warren Murray, Gavin Crampton, Jack Hennessy.
Replacements: Oisin Mooney, Aaron Costello, Stephen Oakley, Theo McGrath, Jason Yellop, Tom Wheeler, Liam McCarthy, Reinas Balakauskas.
