In a thrilling Leinster Schools Senior Cup clash, raining champions Gonzaga College emerged victorious over Belvedere College with a nail-biting final score of 34-33. The match was filled with intense action and dramatic moments that kept the spectators on the edge of their seats.
The game reached its climax in the 70+3rd minute when Darragh O’Dwyer of Gonzaga stepped up to take a crucial kick, sealing the victory for his team in a dramatic fashion.
The momentum swung back and forth throughout the match, with both teams displaying exceptional skill and determination.
With twenty minutes left to play, Gonzaga held a narrow lead of 19-12, thanks to a penalty kick from Darragh O’Dwyer. The match was evenly poised, with both teams battling fiercely for control.
Belvedere fought back so many times, narrowing the gap to just 1 point with a try from Eoin McDermott in the 52nd minute.
Gonzaga had a try from Luke McLoughlin in the 58th minute, reclaiming an 8-point lead and looked set for victory, they had two held up try efforts which nearly proved costly.
Belvedere scored two late tries and took the lead in the 68th minute with a stunning 90-meter run which lead to Cillian McCann TRY, followed by a phenomenal conversion, putting them ahead 33-27.
But deep into injury time, Gonzaga showed great patience and Aidan got over to get the line to get them within a point, which left it all up to O’Dwyer to kick a late conversion for the win. Which he duely kicked.
Throughout the game, standout performances from players like Harry Goslin of Belvedere, who scored two crucial tries, Luke McLoughlin and Darragh O’Dwyer of Gonzaga, who made significant contributions with his kicking and try-scoring abilities.
Ultimately, it was Gonzaga College who emerged victorious, securing a hard-fought victory and advancing in the Leinster Schools Senior Cup semi-final .
