It was a game of two halves as, despite a valiant effort, the Kilkenny Women fell to the South-East Lions in their Leinster League clash against the South East Lions on a calm but chilly Wexford on Sunday. The visitors dominated early on, but ultimately came up short in a hard-fought contest. Both teams battled fiercely for possession in the opening minutes, with Kilkenny initially looking stronger.
However, a quick break by the South-East Lions saw them score the first try of the game, followed by a successful conversion. Kilkenny were soon down to 14 players after a yellow card for penalties and the Lions took advantage, scoring a second try shortly after. Despite the setback, Kilkenny showed their strength in the scrums, applying pressure on the opposition.
Alice Brennan seized an opportunity, breaking through the Lions’ defence to score Kilkenny’s first try, with Emily Kenny adding the conversion. Kilkenny’s defensive awareness was highlighted when they turned over possession during the Lions’ first line-out, with captain Megan Callahan’s tactical kicks forcing the Lions deep into their own half. A second yellow card for Kilkenny reduced them to 14 players again, but they continued to dominate the scrums.
However, another defensive lapse allowed the Lions to score their third try, bringing the score to 21-7. Kilkenny’s determination paid off as they turned over two rucks and scored their second try, narrowing the gap to 21-12 just before half-time. While Kilke.