Last weekend saw the Reserve Grade with a Bye and A Grade in action against Goodna and the 3rd Grade v Easts Longhorns

A Grade

Our Game against Goodna was always going to be a tough one with them looking to retain their position as Premiers and continue their unbeaten start to this season.

In the end it was Goodna who came out on top 20 - 5 but the Irish had really only themselves to blame with 3 tries, including one virtually from the kick off, resulting from turned over ball by the Irish

This was by no means a memorable performance from our top side with some weak tackling and bad ball retention in contact but when we did look to move the ball, especially in the second half, there were opportunities created and the potential started to shine through but we were unable to finish them off

We are still trying to get to grips with this season's new style of play but that is only to be expected and some good work was done with the forwards at last nights training to correct this in relation to our pod system

When we do come together there is no shortage of ball and the work just needs to be done on identifying and selecting the correct options which is not going to be an overnight fix but there are positive steps being made and the feeling around the side is that we are on the right track

On a positive side we scored the only try Goodna have conceded so far this year through some great handling down the touch line which culminated in James Bucknell going over in the corner

Rory Bowe had another good game, always looking to run into space and fighting to stay on his feet and keep going forward in attack, while also being tireless in defence.

A mention also goes to Aaron "Azza" Stephens who game on at half time and right form the kick off started making some penetrating runs in attack

The makings of a great side are definitely there and it was clear to see that out of the 2 sides it is the Irish who have the most potential for improvement

3rd Grade

Our newest side took to the field on Friday night against a Longhorns side brimming with talent, including a 12 who has games for the Hurricanes and the Blues under his belt

Given that last season it would have been our Reserve Grade who would have played this Longhorns side it was always going to be a tough encounter for the 3s but there was not shortage of commitment and effort. It was also great to see so many new faces come down to sign up to play with the Irish

As a result, the lack of familiarity between players did show but the spirit and never say die attitude was fantastic to see

With times and space being organised for the side at training it is only a matter of time before that historic first victory is recorded and the coming game against Easts Union this Friday could well be it