Celtic Challenge: Clovers defeat Gwalia Lightning in high-scoring affair

Ireland’s Clovers claimed a 35-31 win over Gwalia Lightning in the opening round of the Celtic Challenge at Dublin’s Energia Park.

Both sides claimed five tries in a see-saw affair, but it ultimately came down to the boot of Clovers’ Caitríona Finn who converted all of her side’s scores which was the winning of the game.

Last season’s runner-up made a flying start with Ireland international Sadhbh McGrath crossing for the opening try and Niamh Murphy touched down for a second with both converted.

The Welsh side hit back soon after through Evie Hill and a superb finish from Courtney Greenway brought them to within four points of the Munster-Connacht combination.

Momentum was with the visitors and Maisie Davies bundled over for a third try – this one converted – as Gwalia took a 17-14 lead into the break.

Clovers made a flying start to the second period as back row Jemima Adams-Verling crossed for a converted score, but Davies responded in kind to tip the balanced back towards the Welsh side and secure a bonus point

Once again, Clovers found a response with McGrath powering over under the posts for her second of the day and a bonus point, while a piece of quick thinking from Aoibheann McGrath saw her crash over for a debut try with just over 10 minutes to play.

The conversion pushed the gap out to 11 and while Tilly Vucaj drove over for a late converted try, it was only enough to claim a second bonus point as the Irish side prevailed with maximum points.