The Bank of Ireland Leinster Schools Junior Cup Final is one of the most anticipated events in the Irish schools rugby calendar. As the prestigious competition enters its 112th year, excitement is building among rugby fans and players alike. The event, which is set to take place in 2023, promises to be a thrilling showdown between the best junior rugby teams in the province. With all eyes on the upcoming final, it’s time to take a closer look at the teams in contention and preview what promises to be an unforgettable event.
The Bank of Ireland Leinster Schools Junior Cup final between Blackrock College and St. Michael’s College is set to take place at Energia Park on Monday at 3 pm. These two schools have dominated the competition since the turn of the century, with Blackrock winning ten and St Michael’s five titles. The two schools have gone head-to-head seven times in the final since 1986, with Blackrock holding the superior record of five wins against St Michael’s two.
In the most recent match-ups, St Michael’s has won both games, breaking what was becoming something of a hoodoo. Although both schools had their troubles during their passage to the final, Blackrock displayed steady improvement in the rounds leading up to the final.
St Michael’s flanker Owen Twomey is vying for player of the competition, while Blackrock’s captain Matthew Wyse is a hooker with the passing skills of a centre. The silky skills of Luke Coffey at out-half are another reason for optimism for Blackrock, while St Michael’s can rely on the organization and ability of centre Matthew Haugh and full-back Sean King.
Blackrock might just have an edge in the back three, where Cael McCloskey, James Browne, and Rhys Keogh have threatened without completely cutting loose. The final is expected to be a close encounter, and the team that secures enough of the right kind of ball and exposes the weaknesses of the opposition is likely to come out on top.
As the 2023 Bank of Ireland Leinster Schools Junior Cup Final looms, the excitement and anticipation continue to build. With some of the top junior rugby teams in the province set to go head-to-head, the stage is set for a thrilling showdown. As the players take to the field, they will be playing not only for themselves but for their schools, supporters, families, and communities. This competition is about more than just rugby; it’s about passion, pride, and tradition. So, get ready to cheer on your favorite team and witness the next generation of rugby talent in action. May the best team win, and may the spirit of sportsmanship and camaraderie thrive both on and off the field.
