Navan……………………………………..19
Gorey………………………………………14
Saturday 17th January | Balreask Old
Leinster Youth Boys U18 Premier Group A
Navan RFC Under 18.5 Boys moved to the summit of the Leinster Youth U18 Premier League table with a superb 19–14 victory over previously unbeaten Gorey at Balreask Old on Saturday afternoon. In one of the most physical and hard-fought contests of the season, Navan produced a performance full of resilience, discipline and belief. With several players unavailable through injury, the squad dug deep, and those called upon to step into key roles rose impressively to the challenge.
The decisive moment came when Cillian Murphy finished off a sustained period of Navan pressure to score the game’s only try, giving the home side vital momentum in a tightly contested encounter. Lorcan Craik was outstanding throughout, converting the try and delivering a superb kicking display from the tee. Craik added four penalties in total, including an exceptional strike from halfway, ensuring Navan were rewarded for their territory and dominance at key moments.
Gorey, who arrived at Balreask Old unbeaten and top of the table, pushed hard in the closing stages and applied sustained pressure in search of a late score. However, Navan’s defensive organisation, physicality and composure under pressure held firm, allowing them to see out a memorable 19–14 victory.
The result not only ends Gorey’s unbeaten run but propels Navan to the top of the Premier Group A standings, a testament to the squad’s work ethic, commitment and collective character. It was a statement performance from a group that continues to grow in confidence and maturity as the season progresses.
Navan RFC Under 18.5 Boys Squad:
Matthew Kieran, Daniel Robinson, Antonio Rattigan, Myles Doyle, David Hanratty, Tadhg Browne, Conor Goodwin, Rhian Faherty, Cillian Murphy, Eoin Burke, Sean Curtis, Lorcan Craik, Dylan McGuinness, Daniel Heverin, Luke Brady, James Martin, Eamon Berwick, Killian McAniff, Darren Murphy, Sam Wall, Carrig Traynor Hoey, Cormac Horan, Conor Martin
Above pic; Navan RFC U20 AIL debutants; Ben McCreary, Fionn Craik and Saul Harris.
