U16 South East Cup final
Wicklow 42
Wexford 5
Despite a weekend decimated by frozen pitches across the province, the Wicklow U16s ensured that their fixture would not only go ahead but would also live long in the memory, as they produced a superb performance to overcome Wexford in Tullow on Saturday afternoon.
From the opening whistle, Wicklow set the tone in emphatic fashion. Straight from the kick-off, Olly Quinn sliced through the Wexford defence with an unbelievable solo effort, racing clear to touch down and give Wicklow the perfect start. The early score visibly rattled Wexford and, moments later, lightning struck twice. Daniel Connolly gathered possession from the restart and produced an equally sensational individual run, evading multiple tackles to cross the line and leave the Wicklow support in full voice.
With early dominance established, Wicklow began to showcase their structure and cohesion. Alex Tyson was next on the scoresheet following a slick passage of hands that highlighted the side’s growing confidence and teamwork. Luke Connolly added another well-worked try soon after when he charged down a kick before getting to the ball before the endline, finishing off sustained pressure that had Wexford pinned deep in their own half.
The fifth try arrived courtesy of Calum Reid, who powered over after a series of strong carries from the Wicklow pack, underlining the team’s physical edge as well as their attacking flair. The final try was a clever and well worked move duly finished by Finlay White Throughout the contest, Wicklow’s work rate and discipline stood out, particularly impressive given the challenging underfoot conditions.
Alex Healy was composed from the tee, adding valuable points and ensuring Wicklow were fully rewarded for their dominance.
Overall, this was a statement performance from the Wicklow U16s, a blend of individual brilliance and cohesive team play that ensured, despite the frozen weekend, this was one fixture that truly delivered.
Everyone in Tullow would also like to wish a speedy recovery to Wicklow full back Tamati Rangitaawa who suffered a nasty injury midway through the second half.
Wicklow Team.Joshua Callery,Adam Armstrong,Oisin Tallon;Archie Wakeford,Calum Reid;Finlay White,Louis Chambers,Olly Quinn(C);Alex Birrell,Alex Healy;Alex Tyson,Dougie Bowie,Luke Connolly,Daniel Connolly,Tamati Rangitaawa.
Subs;Rory Wolohan,Patrick Treanor,Eoin Treanor,Cian Dunne,Alexander Mckenna,Charles Cullen,Daragh Mcgowan,Adam Ryan.
