In-form Wegians boost promotion hopes with easy victory up North

GALWEGIANS are performing excellently in Division 2a of the Ulster Bank League. They were in ruthless form at the weekend, overwhelming promotion contenders Queens University on Saturday to win 28-0 in tough conditions.

This was the clearest sign yet that we’re dealing with a slightly upgraded sky blues side this season in terms of mental approach. Since their opening day wake up call in Ballymena, they have been notably focused and tuned in, with bonus point wins against Old Wesley and Queens at home and a vital away win at Cashel.

This is in contrast to the opening four games last season where they lost three and were as good as done in the promotion race even at that early stage. Winning ten of their final 11 games wasn’t enough. They had slipped down to the third tier and underestimated the challenge.

The leadership up front was key on Saturday, but they’ve got the pace behind the scrum to make it count even in tough conditions. New Zealander Jerome Harrimate joined from Ballina in the off season and his side step, break and majestic off load set up the third try after half time. Replacement scrum Caolin Blade got the fourth.

In the first half, it was all about the forwards. Gorey native and openside flanker Eddie Earle got the touchdown on the first after a fine forward effort, while scrum half Barry Lee finished off the second. Jason East, Ross Fitzgerald and Doran McHugh led the charge up front. Big second row David Nolan is back to his best for the Cory Brown coached side who have a two week break now.

For more, read this week’s Galway City Tribune.