Rockwell College’s Brave Junior Cup Run Ends in Semi-Final Battle with CBC
Rockwell College’s impressive 2026 Munster Schools Junior Cup campaign came to an end following a hard-fought semi-final encounter against Christian Brothers College, Cork, played at Fethard Town Park. In a game that ebbed and flowed throughout, CBC ultimately ran out 26–15 winners after a late surge in the final quarter.
Fast Start from Rockwell
Rockwell began the match with real intent and quickly established momentum. After a penalty from Jonty Purcell set up field position, the pressure paid off when Fabian Shiel powered over the line for the opening try, setting the tone for a physical and high-tempo contest.
CBC responded shortly afterwards, levelling the score through Jack Singleton, but Rockwell were quick to strike again. Captain Jack Landy finished a well-worked move in the corner, restoring the lead and energising the large Rockwell support that had travelled to Fethard.
The match became increasingly physical, with penalties and even a brief flare-up resulting in players from both sides spending time in the sin-bin.
Half-Time Advantage
Both teams continued to exchange tries in an entertaining opening half. CBC briefly edged ahead, but Rockwell showed excellent resilience. Ethan Kendrick finished strongly in the corner late in the half, ensuring Rockwell went into the break with a deserved 15–12 lead.
At the interval it was all to play for, with the contest finely balanced and both sides showing attacking ambition.
CBC Finish Strong
The second half proved to be a tight and fragmented affair, with both teams battling for control. Rockwell defended bravely but struggled to convert possession into further scores.
CBC’s bench ultimately proved decisive as the Cork side finished strongly in the final quarter. Two tries from Henry Hussey, both converted by Jack O’Shea, turned the game in CBC’s favour and secured their place in the Junior Cup final.
The final whistle confirmed a 26–15 victory for CBC
Rockwell College
J. Landy; J. Griffin, S. Mohally, L. Guitierrez; D. Ahern; J. Purcell, M. English; D. Keating, J. Swords, S. Power, J. McGarry, J. Julian, F. Sheil, D. McCarthy, E. Kendrick.
Replacements: E. Neville, R. Everard, W. Tuohy, J. Tung, M. O’Mahony, A. Marigomez, M. Vukevic, P. O’Callaghan, W. Riordan, G. Fitzgerald.
Christian Brothers College (Cork)
J. O’Shea; J. Singleton, S. Riordan, E. Dawson; R. Barry; S. Lynch, T. Murphy; C. Dockray Arundel, O. O’Farrell, B. Hogan, T. Dineen, J. McCall, C. Murphy, C. McElwain, M. McGrath.
Replacements: H. Hogan, D. O’Connor, T. Kiely, J. Varley, M. Keane, A. Lawlor, H. Harty, J. Mahony, T. Murphy, H. Hussey.
Referee: Michael Reidy (MAR)