YOUNG Munster narrowly lost out by a single point (13-12) to holders Clontarf in the semi-final of the All-Ireland League at Castle Avenue on Saturday.
Clontarf now meet Terenure College in the final, a repeat of last year’s decider.
Munster’s and ‘tarf were level 6-6 at half-time with Conor Hayes kicking two penalties for the visitors. Hayes put Young Munster ahead with his third penalty, but Clontarf replied with a converted try and Munster’s only response was a fourth penalty from Hayes.
Shannon and Highfield will contest the Division 1A playoff final after both sides recorded wins in Dublin and this will be a repeat of last season’s decider at Woodleigh Park, which Shannon won.
Despite trailing 6-0 early in the opening half at Thomond Park, Shannon emerged comfortable winners on a 24-6 scoreline against Old Wesley. Jordan Prenderville, Josh Costelloe, Colm Heffernan, and Aran Hehir scored tries for Shannon, and Michael Cooke added two conversions.
In a thrilling game at Annacotty, UL Bohemian booked their place in the final of the Division 2A Playoff where they will host Dungannon, after a narrow 16-14 win against Sligo. A try by Ignacio Garcia and a conversion and two penalties by Harry Byrne saw Bohs lead 13-7 at halftime. Sligo took the lead with a second converted try but a third Byrne penalty made it 16-14 for the home side before Sligo missed a penalty to win it in the closing stages.
Bruff caused a big upset at Crowley Park defeating Galwegians 24-12 to book their place in the final of the Division 2B playoff against Skerries. Bruff took the lead with a penalty try, but tries from Tom Quigley, Pa Maher, and Eamon Costelloe, along with one conversion by Sean Kilbridge saw them reach the decider.
UCC will face UL Bohemian in the Bank of Ireland Munster Senior Plate Final after their 33-20 win over Midleton at the Mardyke.
