Tullow Rugby Club emerged triumphant on multiple fronts over the weekend, securing both the Provincial Towns Cup and a coveted spot in next season’s All-Ireland League (AIL) for their women’s team.
In the Provincial Towns Cup final, Tullow delivered a commanding performance, sealing a resounding 38-20 victory over Ashbourne. Tries from Martin Cole, Garrett Fitzgerald, Killian Murphy, Oran Farrell, and Jack Hanlon highlighted the team’s stellar effort, propelling them to a well-deserved championship title.
@TullowRFC ladies get back to Carlow to see the men lift the Towns Cup.
— Kieran Murphy (@kieranchas) April 21, 2024
It was a huge day for the club with the ladies qualifying for the 2024-25 All Ireland league with a 22-10 win over Queens in Balbriggan that morning pic.twitter.com/sdoBZzBHcg
However, the victory held a special significance for former Irish International and Tullow stalwart, Sean O’Brien. Having missed out on the final last year due to unavailability, O’Brien’s return to the pitch this year was met with immense emotion and jubilation. In an interview with KCLR immediately after the game, O’Brien expressed his elation, stating,”Unbelievable. I said years ago and when I left under 17 or 18 that I’d love to come back and do this. So to get the opportunity to do it with this group of lads… I know the hardship I probably put them through this year and in terms of training and giving out and driving standards but today that’s all worthwhile.”
O’Brien’s sentiments echoed the dedication and commitment of the entire team, acknowledging the challenges faced throughout the season and the collective effort required to achieve success. His presence on the field undoubtedly inspired his teammates, culminating in a memorable victory for Tullow Rugby Club.
Adding to the club’s triumph, Tullow’s women’s team secured a significant victory of their own, defeating Queens 22-10 in the AIL promotion play-off. This victory not only earned them a spot in next season’s AIL rugby but also underscored the club’s commitment to excellence across all levels of competition.
Listen back to the match:
