PJF season ends flat

Full credit must be given to the Irish for a very streetwise and technical performance that made it difficult for PJF to get themselves going. PJF’s concession of penalties and loose play were punished by a fly half who had brought his kicking boots with him. Any ground that PJF made during the first half was quickly nullified by a resolute Irish pack, whose stronger groundwork enabled turnover ball to be cleared with interest. The Irish amassed a 13-0 half time lead through a converted try, punch through the centre, and the two early penalties.

With what wind there was behind them in the second half PJF began to mount their response as Charlie Fisher slotted a penalty to introduce PJF to the scoreboard. Unfortunately the Irish worked hard and scored another converted try and penalty to lead 23-3.

PJF began to find some form and cohesion and with the crowd behind them started to fight back. Clearances by Fisher and Vaughan began to peg the Irish back in their half and from there the home eight awoke to the situation forming the solid platform needed to spring a rear guard action.

Two tries followed as firstly the pack pushed over and then a characteristic thundering try from winger Nick Owen, freed by quick hands across the backline. However it proved to be too little too late and it was a much relieved visiting side that welcomed the final whistle.

All at PJF are proud of the 1st XV’s achievements this season and the disappointment is testament to the raised level of expectation that exists around the Club this season.