Buccaneers maintained their encouraging start to the Ulster Bank League Division 1B by shading a dramatic encounter 30-28 against Blackrock College at Dubarry Park.
Despite being only three games into the new campaign the Midlanders have already been involved in a couple of high scoring encounters. Saturday’s win over the Dubliners offered another reminder of how good a team Buccaneers can be when they are in the groove. In the first half Buccaneers played a vibrant brand of rugby to rush into a commanding 20-6 lead as the visitors were restricted to two Jack O’Carroll penalties.
Blackrock were much improved after the restart as questions were suddenly asked of the home side, who eventually responded. The Dubliners narrowed the gap down to two points, but the impressive Conor McKeon nailed a vital penalty for Buccs, who held out during an exciting finish. Martin Staunton, Danny Qualter, and Eoghan O’Reilly all crashed over for tries for Buccs, who were once again prompted by McKeon.
Kicking three penalties and three conversions to accumulate a 15-point haul, McKeon was an influential figure for Buccs, who face a long trip to Deramore Park for a clash with Belfast Harlequins this Saturday, October 3.
Belfast Harlequins have endured plenty of disappointment to date, losing their three fixtures so far against Ballymena, UL Bohemian, and Old Wesley. Last weekend the Ulster outfit were comprehensively outplayed, being beaten 33-8 by Wesley at Donnybrook. Buccs will, therefore, be keen to register a road win.
Harlequins are currently in ninth place having only earned two losing bonus points so Buccs, who are fourth, travel north with equal measures of hope and expectation. Old Wesley, Ballymena, and St Mary’s occupy the top three berths, but Buccs can be satisfied with their own opening.
From three games Buccs have won two while also taking one try bonus, and a losing bonus point out of the recent defeat to Wesley in an epic 42-38 joust.
