South East Lions produced a clinical and determined performance to claim the Paul Cusack Cup title, defeating Kilkenny RFC 36–17 in an entertaining final at Portlaoise RFC.
Coming into the decider as underdogs, having narrowly lost twice to Kilkenny earlier in the season, the Lions turned the tables in emphatic fashion when it mattered most.
Kilkenny struck first with an early unconverted try, settling into the contest quickly and showing the form that had made them favourites. However, the Lions responded with intent. Megan Dee crossed the line for their opening try, with Mia Kelly adding the extras to give her side the lead.
Momentum began to swing firmly in favour of the Lions as Sineád Barron powered over for their second try. Not long after, Bonnie Kinnard extended the advantage, again converted by the reliable boot of Mia Kelly.
Kilkenny managed to keep themselves in contention with another try, but the Lions continued to apply pressure. Shannon Codd added another crucial score before the break, leaving the halftime scoreboard reading 24-10 in favour of South East Lions.
The second half saw no let-up from the eventual champions. Viktorija Kubiliute added another try, with Kelly maintaining her excellent kicking record from the tee. Lily Sidney then crossed to further stretch the lead and effectively put the result beyond doubt.
Kilkenny showed resilience to the end, adding a late converted try, but it proved only a consolation as the Lions saw out the game comfortably.
At the final whistle, the scoreboard read 36–17, sparking celebrations among players, coaches, and supporters alike.
This victory marks a significant achievement for South East Lions under the guidance of coaches Ross Barbour and Will Morris, with team managers Gráinne Barron and Annette Guinan also playing key roles in the team’s success.
Attention now quickly turns to their next challenge, as this impressive Lions side prepares for the Brian Murphy Cup final next weekend in Enniscorthy RFC, where they will look to continue their remarkable run.
Best wishes to Megan Dee who picked up a nasty injury. We all wish Megan a speedy recovery.
South East Lions: 1. Leah Guinan 2.Shannon Codd 3.Orla Guinan 4.Taylor Kinnard 5.Ev Fenlon 6.Seana Kane 7.Bronagh Boggan 8.Sineád Barron 9.Clodagh Dee 10.Caoimhe Reville 11.Lily Sidney 12.Mia Kelly 13.Molly O’Gorman 14.Bonnie Kinnard 15.Megan Dee 16.Emma Walsh 17.Aisling Evans 18.Thyla Claire O’Neill 19.Viktorija Kubiliute 20.Ciabha Carty 21.Nessa Carty 22.Chloe McGrath 23.Erin Cahill
