The frost was evident on the roof of Nenagh Ormond Clubhouse but the field was in perfect condition for the big crowd that witnessed the North Munster Under 16 semi-final between Nenagh Ormond and Garryowen on Monday.

Nenagh Ormond Rugby

Senior: After a succession of false starts, barring some majorly unforeseen circumstances, Nenagh Ormond and Navan will finally get to fulfil their Round 9 fixture in the Energia AIL this Saturday, 7th January at 2.30pm.

With only a point between the sides on the table, and both sides probably the best placed of the chasing pack to break into the top 4 playoff places, this is a game with plenty riding on it. Adding a further level of intrigue the sides will also face off seven days later in the round 10 fixture at Balreask Old Ground in Navan so much more will be known about the potential of both sides to chase promotion ambitions by the time the two matches are played.

The coming weeks will be extremely hectic for Nenagh with 5 AIL games, a Munster Senior Cup semi-final and possibly a Limerick Charity Cup Final all to be accommodated across January and February. Squad depth will be crucial and every player in the squad will most likely be needed at some point. Like with any busy run of fixtures, a good start is vital so all supporters are encouraged to make a big effort to get to Lisatunny on Saturday afternoon. Kick-off is at 2.30pm and hopefully 2023 will get off to a winning start for our flagship team.

Under 16: While most sides in the club had the feet up over the Christmas period the club’s Under 16 side were quite the opposite.

Having had a number of games fall foul of the weather in the run up to Christmas, the team ended up resuming North Munster League action on December 27th with a League quarter final versus Ennis.

Despite not having had a game for a number of weeks the home side started strongly and moved the ball wide for centre Shane Cleary to get in under the posts. Out-half Billy O’Brien added the extras. Cleary scored his second try soon afterwards but this time the conversion attempt was unsuccessful.

Nenagh were well in control at this stage and despite the conditions tried to move the ball through the hands at every opportunity. Speedy winger, Marcus O’Mahony received the ball in space and outstripped the cover for a great try. Kedagh Broderick added the extras. Nenagh led 19-0 at the interval.

Ennis changed tactics in the second half and tried to get their big runners into the game at every opportunity. Some excellent tackling from each of the Nenagh pack drove them backwards in an excellent defensive display.

While it is difficult to pick anyone out special mention must go to the home backrow of Nathan Mannion, Kedagh Broderick and man of the match Emmet Jones for the manner in which they felled the big Ennis runners.

The team then played Garryowen in Lisatunny on Monday last in the semi-final. A bumper crowd turned out to cheer on the boys for the Bank Holiday fixture and they didn’t disappoint. In a great contest, in very good conditions for the time of year, it was the home side who finished on the right side of a 25-19 scoreline.

Further details of this game as well as details of the final of this competition when it is fixed will be posted on our social media pages so stay in touch over the coming days.

Fixtures: Senior: v Navan in Lisatunny on Saturday at 2.30pm.

Under 18.5: v Old Christians in Old Christians on Saturday at 1.00pm

Under 16: v Clonakilty in Lisatunny on Sunday at 12.30pm

Under 15: v Kilrush in Tyone on Sunday at 12.00pm

Under 14: v UL Bohemian in Lisatunny on Sunday at 11.15am

Under 13: v Shannon in Coonagh on Sunday at 11.30am

Under 11: Blitz at Old Crescent RFC on Sunday at 10.00am

Under 9: Blitz at Young Munster on Sunday at 10.00am

Split the Bucket: Congratulations to all our Split the Bucket Winners over the festive period. As well as our jackpot winners we also had various bonus prizes handed out over the past number of weeks. Each of these were vouchers for various local businesses who have generously supported us over the past few months. As always, we are greatly indebted to all sponsors who give so generously to ours and many other local clubs. Details of all winners and prizes are available on our social media pages. You can also find access to our many purchasing options online so that you too can be a part of our fundraising efforts and be in with a chance to win our weekly jackpot. Visit nenaghormondrfc.com/products to find out more.