Last Sunday the NORFC U15s travelled to Kilballyowen Park to take on Bruff RFC. There has been nothing between these teams in recent seasons and so it would. continue today. The visitors were arriving full of confidence having won their last few matches, and hopes were high that this winning streak would continue. Conditions were very tough, with the field exceptionally slippy and mucky. The game started with both sides giving their all. Misfortune struck Nenagh early in the first half with the departure of the injured Jack O'Callaghan, which combined with the ongoing absence through injury of the mighty Ivan Struzia, meant we were doing well to hold out this talented Bruff side. It was the home side, however, that struck first with a converted try. But solid Nenagh pressure was rewarded with a penalty, which Tristan duly scored to leave the score at half time 7 - 3 to Bruff. Indeed except for some very stout defending by Bruff on their own line, the visitors could even have been ahead. The second half started at the same pace, and again Bruff scored a converted try. Nenagh to their credit continued to hammer away but in truth the Bruff defence was on top all day. With about 10 mins to go Tristan powered over for a try which he converted himself to leave the score at 14 - 10 to Bruff. However this was as good as it got, as in the last few minutes with the Nenagh boys tiring, and injuries mounting up Bruff moved the ball quickly and scored a couple of late tries to leave the final score at 31 - 10 to Bruff. On the day Bruff were full value for the win, their rucking, scrummaging and tackling out worked that of the visitors. However, in defeat some harsh lessons can be learned that hopefully will be invaluable as the season nears the business end. Thanks to Bruff for an exciting and tough match, and thanks to the many parents who made the long journey to Bruff to support us.