The Dublin University Football Club (D.U.F.C.) 1st XV had a thrilling victory at College Park on Saturday, 19th October, edging out Queens University 24-21. It marked their second consecutive win, solidifying a strong start to the season. Queens arrived in Dublin with a formidable squad packed with Ulster Academy and Irish U20 players, but Trinity's young and determined side rose to the occasion.
Trinity dominated possession and territory throughout the game, but the Ulster side's robust defence proved challenging. Queens capitalized on a rare opportunity when Irish U20 out-half Jack Murphy intercepted the ball near his own line and sprinted 98 metres for a stunning try. Despite this setback, Trinity's resilience shone through as wing Kofi Barton-Byford responded with a try of his own, weaving through the defence to score by the posts.
Queens retaliated with another try from Australian U20s scrum-half Michael McDonald, but Trinity stayed composed. A penalty just before halftime kept Trinity in contention.
In the second half, Trinity's control over possession continued, but breaking through the Queens' defence proved difficult. The northern visitors put up a defensive masterclass, with an astonishing 263 tackles compared to Trinity’s 73. The breakthrough came from the bench as hooker Oisin McCloskey, playing his first AIL game of the season, made an immediate impact. He scored after linking up with scrum-half Oscar Cawley, providing the crucial momentum Trinity needed.
Although Queens hit back with another try from Irish U20s back rower Tom Brigg, McCloskey delivered again with a second try, powering over from close range to put Trinity ahead for good. Trinity spent the remaining minutes camped inside the Queens 22, pressing for a bonus point try, but Queens’ defence held firm.
In a testament to their early-season form, Trinity's Senior Seconds (J1s) secured a bonus-point victory over Old Wesley in Leinster Met 1, winning 31-24 at Donnybrook. Their unbeaten start after four games places them at the top of the league, with the team playing some exceptional attacking rugby.
The U20 Premier side bounced back from an early setback against Corinthians to claim a commanding 41-19 win over Terenure. Despite challenging weather conditions, they dominated the game, especially in the second half, showcasing multi-phase tries and clinical execution.
Elsewhere, the Senior 4ths drew 41-41 against RCSI in a high-scoring affair, while matches for the U20 Freshers, Senior 3rds, and the Women's teams were postponed due to stormy weather.
Looking ahead, D.U.F.C. face another big test this Saturday, 26th October as they travel to Thomond Park to take on Shannon in AIL 1B, while the U20s compete in the Conroy and Kelly Coghlan Cups in Galway. On Sunday, 27th October, the women’s team will return to action in College Park, facing Port Dara in Leinster League Division 2.