Heartbreak at the End for U13 Boys in Boyne Clash

Leinster Youth Boys Under 13 Premier League

Navan 24 Boyne 26
Sunday 22nd February | Balreask Old

Navan RFC Under 13 Boys produced a superb performance on Sunday at Balreask Old in a fiercely contested Premier League clash against neighbours Boyne, narrowly losing out 26–24 in a thrilling encounter decided in injury time.

Captained by Cian Murphy, who lined out at openside flanker, Navan showed immense character throughout. Murphy led from the front with relentless tackling and work rate from first whistle to last.

Navan started slowly and conceded an early try, but responded immediately when Shay Smyth crossed to level the contest and settle the home side.

Number 8 Tadhg Sheridan delivered a standout performance, claiming a superb hat-trick and earning a well-deserved “Player of the Match” Award. His handling and carrying were outstanding throughout, and he was central to Navan’s forward dominance.

The scrum and lineout were particularly strong on the day, providing a solid platform for attack. Freddie Davis added two excellent conversions to keep the scoreboard ticking.

One of the highlights of the afternoon came from fullback Shay Smyth, who initiated a brilliant team try from deep inside Navan’s own 22. Breaking the defensive line, Smyth ran the length of the pitch into the Boyne 22 before, with excellent support arriving, cleverly popping the ball off the ground to Reynolds Casey, who finished the move superbly. It was a perfect example of teamwork, awareness and support play.

The introduction of the “Bomb Squad” at half-time added fresh energy and impact, helping Navan take a 24–21 lead heading into injury time. However, Boyne managed to edge ahead with a late score to snatch victory at the death.

Despite the narrow defeat, the performance was full of positives and showcased the squad’s resilience, skill and teamwork.

Both teams enjoyed tea and refreshments prepared by the parents afterwards, adding to the excellent sporting spirit of the occasion.

Referee Sean Dineen oversaw the contest superbly, contributing to an enjoyable and competitive match.

Navan now turn their attention to this Sunday’s Cup clash at home to Longford, with Tadhg Sheridan set to captain the side.

Navan RFC Under 13 Boys Squad:

Reynolds Casey, Henry McGivern, Cillian Murtagh, Ben Battersby, Tommy Leonard, Ethan McKenna, Cian Murphy, James Burns, Tadhg Sheridan, Conor Lyons, Freddie Davis, Alex Patterson, Jack Macken, Hugh Donnelly, Shay Smyth, William Kelly, Bobby Swan, Tommy Maguire, Briain Kennedy, Harry Russell, Seamus Tobin, Freddie Kearns, Kealan Rogers.