The second round of the McElligott Cup welcomed Killarney’s neighbours Killorglin to a sun-drenched Aghadoe on Sunday afternoon.

After a solid start to the season against Castleisland, it was another chance for Killarney to test their pre-season preparations, this time against stiff opposition in the form of last season’s undefeated division champions. A healthy crowd, under supervision it must be said, turned out in force to see perhaps two of the best sides in Kerry battle it out for a place in the final on a pristine pitch fit for the occasion.

It was first blood to the visitors, coming away from sustained early pressure with a try shortly after kicking off. And after a missed conversion, they shortly doubled their lead to 10-0 in as many minutes. However, Killarney showed a dogged determination to stop the scoreline running away from them. Super stuff from Mike Sheahan in the centre earned a penalty at the breakdown and Killarney’s subsequent set piece was well executed to give the hosts plenty of ball in hand, well into the Killorglin half. Then, following an attacking scrummage, impressive ball retention gave impetus to some excellent phase-based rugby proving too hot to handle for the Killorglin defence. Sending the home sideline wild, former U18 Craig McKenzie Vass crashed over with strong support to half the deficit.

Sweltering conditions meant the first drinks break gave chance for a change in the front row for Killarney and the second quarter unfolded with Killorglin moving the ball well in midfield. However, thanks to a high defensive workrate from Killarney, it amounted to nothing. Temperatures continued to rise - this time on the pitch resulting in a yellow card for Killarney with 10 minutes remaining in the half. Although the 14 men did well for a large part of the sin bin, even testing Killorglin’s defence at times, further good work and sharp hands from the Killorglin backs led to a converted try just before half time making it 5-17 at the break.

Killarney restarted proceedings on the front foot though and after a good period of possession, ignored the chance to pull three points back from a penalty just left of the posts. Instead, they opted to kick to the corner with precision from Paudie Sheahan who was flawless from the dead ball throughout. Attacking Killarney lineouts became a familiar theme in the second half as Killorglin rarely ventured into opposition territory. In fairness though, it wasn’t just a lack of clinical edge that meant Killarney couldn’t come away with points and credit must be given to a resolute Killorglin defence who soaked up this pressure for the majority of the second 40 minutes.

In fact, it was they who turned defence into attack with less than five minutes to go, scoring a smart try in the corner, converted from near the touch line. One more lineout deep into Killorglin territory might have given Killarney hope towards the end, alas it was too little too late, finishing up 5-24.

Captain O’Carroll said, “I’m encouraged by the performance. Yes, we’ve still got to work on some fundamentals but the heart today was magnificent from the lads, especially up against a team from the league above.”

Again, it was a valiant team effort and spirit that won the day coupled with an impressive match fitness that’s seen rarely this early in a new term. Hard yards on the training pitch are paying off it seems and Killarney look forward to Listowel in the McGillicuddy Cup this coming Sunday away at Town Park - kick off at 1430.

Socially distant training at Aghadoe is now at 7:30pm on Tuesdays and 8:00pm on Thursdays, with new players always welcome. For details please contact Brian O'Sullivan on 087 245 8637.