23 Dec U13 Boys Dig Deep for Gritty Away Win in Skerries
Navan RFC Under-13 Boys produced a superb battling performance to claim a hard-fought 22–20 away victory over Skerries RFC in challenging seaside conditions on Saturday afternoon.
Played on Skerries’ 4G surface, the conditions posed little concern for the Navan side, who train weekly on the 4G pitch at St Patrick’s Classical School — an advantage that was evident throughout a fast-paced and physical contest.
Navan edged a narrow lead at half-time, with two tries apiece for both teams, the difference coming courtesy of a well-taken conversion. The second half was fiercely competitive, with momentum swinging both ways, before Navan showed their composure and resilience to close out the match.
A crucial factor in the closing stages was the introduction of the forwards’ “Bomb Squad”. Gene Murray won a vital scrum against the head late on, while Tommy Leonard delivered a tireless performance throughout. Cian Murphy produced a standout moment with a superb try-saving tackle on the wing and remained a constant threat in defence and attack.
In attack, Shay Smyth was outstanding, crossing for a try in each half. Seamus Tobin and Tadhg Sheridan also touched down, while Freddie Davis calmly converted the opening try with a composed drop-kick. Operating at out-half, Davis also played a decisive role late on, setting up Smyth’s crucial score with an incisive run from the Skerries 10-metre line.
Captain Conor Lyons led by example from full-back, delivering a commanding performance at the back. Man of the Match honours went to Freddie Davis, whose game management, composure, and ability to secure possession at key moments proved pivotal to Navan’s success.
The victory saw Navan extend their lead at the top of both the Leinster North-East League and Leinster League Division A. Skerries RFC players, management, and supporters were gracious in defeat and provided excellent hospitality after the match.
It has been a fantastic year for the Navan RFC U13s, who will kick off 2026 with a fixture against Tullow RFC. The boys head into the Christmas break firmly on Santa’s good list.
Navan Under 13 Boys Squad:
McGivern Henry, Cillian Murtagh, Ben Battersby, Bobby Swan, William Donegan, John Graham, Kealan Rogers, James Burns, Shay Smyth, Freddie Kearns, Freddie Davis, Cian Murphy, Tommy Leonard, Tadhg Sheridan, Alex Patterson, Conor Lyons, Eoghan Clarke, Gene Murray, Briain Kennedy, David Feeney, Jack Macken, Casey Reynolds, Seamus Tobin, Aidan O’Connor.