Ulster Bank AIL 17th March 2018
Scorers: Magrath(1*Pen)

With three games to play in Division 2B, Rainey Old Boys remain in second place behind runaway leaders Old Crescent.  But their lead has been cut to only three points.  Third placed Barnhall beat them 25-3 at Parsonstown to reduce the deficit and increase the pressure as the battle for second place hots up.  Barnhall  face a tricky proposition this week when they must travel to Navan who will be seeking a play-off spot.

While two other Division 2B games were re-arranged for March 31, Rainey  were forced to play on a date which did not suit them.  They had to settle for an 11.00am kick-off, and with a depleted side, never looked like winning.  The only consolation for Rainey came from stopping Barnhall from banking a bonus point for scoring four tries.

In front of a sparce crowd on a very cold morning, Rainey had first use of the wind, but out-half Andy Magrath, who has kicked very well all season, missed with two shots at goal.  Barnhall took their chances to score a valuable try and kick two penalties to put themselves in pole position, before Magrath narrowed the deficit.

Leading 13-3, Barnhall added two more tries, but could not take the bonus point which could prove to be vital in the coming weeks.  Rainey can only hope that they can field a stronger team next time out.