Buccaneers Seconds secured a crucial 12-10 victory over University of Galway in the Bank of Ireland Connacht Junior 1A League at Dangan on Sunday. The Pirates, travelling with only 15 players, battled hard to overcome the Students in challenging conditions.
After a scoreless first half, Richard Greene opened the scoring with an unconverted try early in the second period. However, University of Galway, coached by Colm Rigney, responded with two unconverted tries to take a 10-5 lead.
Despite being reduced to 14 players following an injury to Harry Balsiger, Buccs fought back, with Keelan Connolly crossing the line for a try. Gearoid McDonald added the crucial conversion to seal the win.
Evergreen props Niall Harney and Sean Flynn anchored the scrum, while McDonald’s return at fly-half proved instrumental in thwarting the hosts. The victory moves Buccaneers above University of Galway in the league standings.
THIS WEEKEND: Buccaneers will face Galway Corinthians in the Energia All-Ireland League Division 2A at Dubarry Park on Friday night. The match, under the floodlights, kicks off at 7.30 pm.
Corinthians, sitting second in the league, were dominant in the reverse fixture before Christmas and will come into the game as favourites. However, Buccaneers, bolstered by returning players, will aim to deliver an improved performance in this local derby.
SECONDS: This weekend Buccaneers Seconds are scheduled to travel to Ballinasloe in the opening round of the Bank of Ireland Connacht Junior Cup. Ballinasloe, joint leaders in Junior 1B, will be eager to avenge last season’s defeats to Buccaneers in both the cup and league decider. The Pirates face a stern challenge against the in-form East Galway side.
BUSINESS LUNCH: Bookings are strong for the upcoming Business Networking Lunch featuring former international referee Nigel Owens as the keynote speaker.
The event takes place at the Sheraton Hotel, Athlone, on Friday, 28th of February. Interested attendees are urged to contact Geraldine at 0861732711 to secure their spot.
FUN RUN: Buccaneers RFC kicked off 2025 with a highly successful New Year’s Day Fun Run at Athlone Regional Sports Centre.
The event, blessed with glorious sunshine, saw a significant increase in participants. Kevin Moore emerged as the overall winner, while Finlay Carthy and Anna Marie O’Dowd led the men’s and women’s categories, respectively.
Senior Vice-President Eoin Reid thanked the participants, volunteers, and the venue for their support. Proceeds from the event will be shared between Buccaneers RFC and St Hilda’s Services.
