**U14 Match Report: Portarlington RFC vs Seapoint
Portarlington U14s travelled to Seapoint’s Woodbrook College grounds today for a thrilling and hard-fought encounter.
Port started brightly, kicking off with strong pressure and intensity. The opening five minutes saw both sides testing each other physically, but it was Seapoint who struck first, capitalising on a Port ruck to run in the opening score.
Port settled quickly and responded brilliantly. A well-worked passage of play sent Tom Coen powering into the bottom corner for a superb try, which Bradley Cooper converted with confidence. Port carried that momentum into halftime with a deserved 7–5 lead.
The second half brought renewed energy and purpose. Port secured their rucks superbly, providing clean ball for their back line to attack with ambition. However, a controversial penalty awarded to Seapoint on Port’s 22 shifted the score to 8–7 in favour of the home side.
Driven on by their loyal travelling supporters—whose passion could be felt across the pitch—Port responded in style. A brilliant loop line from Tom Coen saw him collect a perfect offload before powering over for his second try of the day. The Port supporters erupted as the team reclaimed the lead 12–8.
With six minutes remaining, Port looked to close out the game, but Seapoint refused to give in. Two penalties in quick succession, both in kickable range, were awarded on Port’s 22. Seapoint converted both, edging ahead 14–12, and despite a spirited final effort, Port were unable to regain the lead before the final whistle.
A tough result, but a hugely encouraging performance full of heart, skill, and ambition from this developing squad.
Man of the Match
Tom Coen (Captain) – outstanding leadership and two exceptional tries.
Notable Performances
Sam Lyons, Luca Hynes, Thoma McGrath, Sam Petriw, Tadgh O’Connor, Charlie Merriman & Michael Owens.

Team
Jack McDonnald, Ciarian Moore, Harry Robinson, Oisín Geoghegan, Luca Hynes, Sam Lyons, Tadgh O’Connor, Tom Coen, Charlie Merriman, Eoin O’Connell, Sam Petriw, Sean Fitzpatrick, Michael Owens, Thoma McGrath, Bradley Cooper, Dan Carroll, Arran Dunne, Sean Kiernan.