Clinical Crescent celebrate Munster Schools Junior Cup glory

CLINICAL Crescent College Comprehensive were crowned Clayton Hotel Munster Schools Junior Cup champions for a seventh time after scoring a convincing 17-7 final replay victory over holders CBC, of Cork, at Thomond Park this Wednesday.

Crescent outscored their opponents by three tries to win to win the Junior Cup title for a first time since 2011.

The classy Limerick side was rewarded for their expansive, attacking approach to the game as the winners boasted several dynamic strike runners, especially in their backline.

Despite taking a fifth minute lead through a fine try from number eight Jack Madden, and dominating much of the opening half, Crescent nonetheless trailed the 2015 winners 5-7 at half-time.

The Christians’ points came courtesy of a Conor O’Sullivan try, which was converted by Billy Cain on 21 minutes.

However, two final quarter tries from prop Ronan Gallery, a terrific team score following a fine break by centre Hoffman, and another five pointer from winger Ben Carew after a terrific line-out steal from Cian McDonagh forced a turnover in possession and out-half John Hurley had punched a huge hole in the CBC defence with a powerful break, sealed the victory.

This was Crescent’s sixth Junior Cup final appearance in seven seasons. The Dooradoyle side had also defeated CBC in the opening round of the Junior Cup in January.