Corinthians gained their first win in Cloonacauneen Park on Saturday afternoon with a 19-12 victory over Thomond in the Ulster Bank League division 2A.
With only a losing bonus point to show for their earlier outings, this was a must-win against the Limerick visitors, and head coach Ene Fa'fatau stuck with his youthful squad who finally reaped the reward.
Corinthians struck early when flanker David McDermot slipped in for a touchdown. Fullback Simon Kellagher was wide with the conversion, but slotted a penalty in the 15th minute to extend their lead.
Hooker Pat O'Toole got on the scoreboard in the 14th minute with an excellent touchdown after loose play by the Thomond backline. Kellagher slotted another penalty just before the break, leaving the Cloonacauneen outfit leading by 16-0.
The fullback extended their lead after the restart with another three-pointer at which stage Corinthians took the foot off the pedal.
The Limerick outfit upped their game and were rewarded when Matt D'Arcy and Leo Slattery scooted in for two touchdowns, with Frank McGibney converting one of the tries to secure a losing bonus point.
Corinthians have a week's break from action before their next outing away to Nenagh/Ormond on October 17.
