RICHMOND’S main challengers all lost ground on the leaders in the Munster Junior League (Section A) at the weekend.
Richmond were not in action as their fixture at Old Christians was postponed due a bereavement.
Second-placed Bandon have slipped to fourth place, following their 16-7 home defeat by local neighbours Clonakilty.
Newcastle West defeated Skibbereen 15-14 at the West Cork venue with two tries from Evan Donovan and one by Michael Bourke to move into second place but six points adrift of Richmond, with three games remaining.
Kilfeacle gave their chances of a top four finish a big boost with a 35-24 home win over fifth placed Mallow.
In relegation territory, Waterpark did their survival hopes a power of good with a 28-24 away win at Thomond. Waterpark led 23-5 at halftime and were 28-5 ahead early in the second half. Thomond rallied thereafter and had tries from Adam Guerin, Colin Haigney, Mike McMahon, and Jordan O’Donnell, along with two Guerin conversions to secure two valuable points from the contest.
Abbeyfeale look like they will be playing in Division Two next season after their 47-14 home defeat by Muskerry. Jacques van Wyngaardt scored two tries for Abbeyfeale and both were converted by Sean Kilbridge.
Crosshaven also look like they will be joining Abbeyfeale in the Second Division, after their 17-10 defeat away to St. Mary’s.
Galbally-Mitchelstown moved into second place in Section B, nine points behind Fethard with two games in hand, after their 35-15 away win at Waterford City. Pat O’Donovan, Brendan Childs, Davy Sheehan, John Kearns, and Danny Hayes scored tries for the winners. Kearns kicked four conversions and Pat Shanahan one.
Charleville defeated Ballincollig 31-16 to clinch the final playoff spot in Section C. Kian Smith, David Forde, Eoin Carroll, Kaden O’Neill, and Liam Barrett scored tries for Charleville, with Smith converting three of the tries.
