UCD, Bective Rangers and Greystones each managed to register 40 points or more on the opening weekend of the AIB All-Ireland League Division Two. The Students recovered from a scrappy opening 20 minutes to run in six tries against a disorganised and outclassed Malone team en route to a 41-3 victory at Belfield.
Tries from centres Michael Colling and Paddy Hickey Dwyer (2), prop Ronan McCormack, wing James Norton and a penalty try allied to the boot of outhalf Paddy Wallace ensured an enjoyable afternoon for UCD. Bective easily won the battle of the Donnybrook tenants, thrashing Old Wesley 41-6.
It was a number of St Mary's College old boys that enjoyed a major impact, notably full back Kelvin McNamee whose pace and elusiveness created openings for several team-mates. McNamee, Robbie Miliken, Steve Kidd and prop Brendan Crowley (2) helped themselves to tries.
Greystones made short work of Portadown at Dr Hickey Park when they finally managed to shake off the rustiness that accompanies the first match of a campaign. The home side dominated the second half through the excellent work of Maurice Logue, replacement flanker Paul Dunne and Steve Scanlon.
Leinster coach Matt Williams will be delighted that young Old Belvedere outhalf Andy Dunne is beginning to show the type of form that marked him as an outstanding prospect. His placekicking was pivotal to his side's 31-25 victory over UL Bohemians at Anglesea Road.
UCC prevailed in a local derby against Sunday's Well at the Mardyke, three penalties from Conrad O'Sullivan enough to edge them to a 9-6 victory. Elsewhere Dolphin enjoyed a hard fought but well deserved victory over City of Derry, eventually edging home 37-29. Co Carlow were too strong for Wanderers at Oak Park while Ballynahinch didn't miss Ulster flanker Andy Ward too much as they beat Midleton 30-22.
In Division Three Skerries enjoyed a superb start to the league with a fine 17-9 away victory over Instonians. Second row Karl Dowling scored the only try of the match. Naas, making their debut in senior rugby, overcame Barnhall 16-7 in an all Kildare dispute.
Dublin University continued last year's unbeaten league campaign by winning their first match of this season with a 32-23 victory over Richmond at College Park. Dominic St George was a two try hero for the students. Elsewhere Banbridge, Bangor, Corinthians, Suttonians and Waterford managed a winning start to their respective seasons.
