Sligo travelled to Belfast to take on Instonians on Saturday, with both teams in a competitive position in the All Ireland League Division 2B. Coming into the game Sligo were in 4th place, equal on league points with 2nd-place Corinthians and 3rd-place Wanderers, with Instonians top of the league, unbeaten so far.
The game started with Instonians taking the initiative, scoring two converted tries to establish a 14-0 lead. Sligo showed some mettle when scrum-half Brendan Cunningham scored a try, followed by Euan Brown’s conversion, making it 14-7.
However, Instonians were quick to respond with another try to widen the gap once again. Cunningham wasn’t finished though, darting in for another try and with Brown’s conversion, Sligo closed the gap to trail by only a score 21-14.
Instonians kept up the pressure, executing a strategic cross-field kick that resulted in another try. Sligo’s Martino Quiroga hit back with another try to leave them trailing, but as the match progressed, the home side secured a bonus-point try and continued building a score to run out 52-19 winners.
Sligo showed moments of skill and resilience, but Instonians were the better side on the day, taking their chances well and maintaining control throughout the game. They continue their unbeaten run. Sligo is set to take the positives from this game into their upcoming AIL 2B fixtures. Next up is the visit of Malahide RFC to Strandhill on Saturday 11th Nov at 2:30pm.
