Last Saturday, Rainey Old Boys made the long trek to Dr Hickey Park in Wicklow for their first encounter of the season with AIL 2B leaders Greystones. On the wrong end of a 29-7 defeat, Rainey have now dropped to fifth in the league, while Greystones are now firm favourites for promotion to AIL 2A.

Rainey had the better of the early exchanges, but a series of penalties allowed Greystones to regain territory and they opened the scoring after 22mins, with a well-taken try.
Rainey countered and pinned Greystones back in their ’22, eventually being rewarded with a try when prop O’Hagan muscled over. The extras were ably converted by Faiva.

Again, Rainey’s indiscipline let them down and Greystones were able to gain huge yardage from the boot, ensconcing themselves in the Rainey ’22. The defence held however, and they forced a penalty to relieve the pressure. Another penalty against Rainey for holding saw them pinned back for a 5m lineout and on the last play of the half, Greystones were awarded a penalty try, the referee going straight to his pocket for a yellow for flanker Lee for collapsing the maul.

Reduced to 14 men, Rainey were unable to exit their half for the first 10mins of the second period, but they held firm, denying Greystones any points from their numerical advantage. A promising Rainey attack in midfield saw centre Fitzsimmons lose the ball forward in the tackle and once more a superbly accurate Greystones kick saw them find touch in the Rainey ’22. Rainey defended well, but it was only a matter of time and Greystones added their third try on the 62nd minute. The conversion took them 19-7 ahead and further Greystones penalty on 71 mins extended the lead.

They continued to press for the bonus point, which was almost denied them, but on the last play of the game they completed the task. The conversion was added to complete Rainey’s misery.

Rainey now have a week off before welcoming Wanderers RFC to Hatrick Park on 26th November, for what has become another must-win encounter.