Under 18.5 Boys Challenge Match

Galwegians 12 Navan 47
Saturday 24th January | Crowley Park, Galway

Navan Scorers:

Tries: Lorcan Craik x3, Myles Doyle x2, Rihan Faherty, Luke Brady.

Cons: Lorcan Craik x2, Rihan Faherty, Daniel Robinson, Antonio Rattigan, Cormac Horan.

Navan RFC Under 18.5 Boys produced an outstanding performance on the road on Saturday, running in seven tries to record an emphatic 47–12 challenge match victory over Galwegians in Crowley Park.

Played as the curtain-raiser to the Energia All-Ireland League Division 2B clash involving both clubs Men’s 1st XV’s, the fixture provided a memorable occasion for the travelling squad, who embraced both the setting and the challenge despite difficult, muddy underfoot conditions.

Navan arrived in Galway in good spirits and quickly translated that positivity onto the pitch. The side welcomed Thomas Russell, stepping up from the Under 17s, while Jack Mangan made a welcome return to the squad, adding further depth and energy to the group.

From the opening exchanges, Navan played with real intent and cohesion. The forwards and backs combined superbly, showing strong link-up play and clinical finishing whenever opportunities arose. Lorcan Craik led the scoring with a superb hat-trick, while Myles Doyle crossed twice. Further tries from Rihan Faherty and Luke Brady underlined Navan’s attacking dominance on the day.

Craik was also influential from the tee, adding two conversions, with additional successful kicks from Rihan Faherty, Daniel Robinson, Antonio Rattigan and Cormac Horan as Navan made full use of the freedom afforded by the friendly format.

Despite Galwegians’ efforts, Navan’s work rate and organisation ensured they maintained control throughout, delivering a complete team performance that was reflected in the final scoreline.

This was a highly valuable outing for the squad, showcasing their depth, connection and enjoyment of the game. A thoroughly enjoyable trip west and another encouraging display as the group continues its development together.