WESTPORT RFC 12 BALLINA RFC 22
Cawley Cup • Joe McGovern Park • 12 September 2026

Ballina RFC’s 1st XV made a winning start to the 2026/27 season, producing an excellent second-half performance to defeat Westport RFC 22–12 at Joe McGovern Park in the Cawley Cup.

Westport made the brighter start and took an early 7–0 lead through a converted try. Ballina responded strongly, working their way into the game before a well-constructed team move was finished by Liam Masterson to reduce the deficit to 7–5.

The hosts struck again before the interval with an unconverted try, giving Westport a 12–5 advantage at half-time and leaving Ballina with work to do in the second half.

Ballina emerged after the break with renewed intensity and quickly began to take control. Their pressure was rewarded when Rob Fridd crossed for a try, with Cian Anderson adding the conversion to bring the sides level at 12–12.

With momentum now firmly behind them, Ballina continued to press. Oisín Smyth Rouse finished another strong attacking move to put the visitors ahead for the first time at 17–12.

Ballina maintained their pressure and sealed the victory when Paul Brennan crossed for the team’s fourth try, completing an unanswered run of 17 second-half points and securing an impressive 22–12 win.

It was a determined and disciplined performance from Ballina, who showed great character to recover from trailing twice during the opening half. The victory provides the perfect start to the new season and sends Ballina through to the Cawley Cup semi-final, where they will travel to face Tuam RFC on Sunday 20th September @ 2pm.

Ballina scorers: Liam Masterson – Try, Rob Fridd – Try, Oisín Smyth Rouse – Try, Paul Brennan – Try, Cian Anderson - Conversion