Enniscorthy’s search for a first away win of the season continued on Saturday as a strong first-half performance ultimately gave way to a difficult second forty minutes in Sligo.

The hosts opened the scoring early, kicking a penalty after seven minutes, but Enniscorthy responded superbly. Playing with confidence and tempo, the visitors produced some excellent rugby to pin Sligo inside their own 22. The pressure told after ten minutes when Tony Ryan crossed for a well-worked try, which Ben Kidd calmly converted to put Enniscorthy 7–3 ahead.

Sligo’s indiscipline continued to cost them and Kidd added a further penalty to extend the lead to 10–3. Enniscorthy looked the sharper side throughout the opening half, dominating territory and possession. However, Sligo struck back on 32 minutes with a try of their own to narrow the gap. Despite that setback, Enniscorthy remained the better team for much of the half and went into the break holding a deserved 10–8 advantage.

The second half told a very different story. Playing up the hill and with the wind at their backs, Sligo came out firing and immediately put Enniscorthy under sustained pressure. Two converted tries in the opening eight minutes swung the momentum firmly in the home side’s favour, pushing the score out to 22–10. A further Sligo penalty from their ever-reliable full-back compounded the pressure.

Enniscorthy showed real character to respond, with Rhyan Whelan powering over for a try to give the travelling support renewed hope, though the conversion was narrowly missed. Unfortunately, the scenes that followed the try were disappointing, with the Sligo bench and sections of the home support showing little respect towards the Enniscorthy kicker, match officials and medical staff.

As the match wore on and fatigue set in, Sligo took full advantage, crossing for two further tries to put the result beyond doubt and seal a 39–15 victory.

Once again, Enniscorthy were left reflecting on a strong first-half showing that promised much. A very good opening 40 minutes had raised hopes of a first win on the road this season, but it was not to be. The playing group and coaches are working hard and are putting in every effort on the training ground to get the elusive win.

There will be no respite next weekend, with league leaders and title favourites, Galwegiens, visiting Alcast Park on Saturday, 31st January, kick-off 2.30pm. One thing is certain — the lads will give it everything, and a big home support would be hugely appreciated.

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