Marist rugby stars aim for historic Connacht double

THE Marist College are just one game away from claiming a historic back to back success in the Connacht Schools’ Senior Cup, as they prepare to face Garbally College in this year’s final at the Sportsground, Galway on Wednesday (4pm).

The Marist claimed a first Connacht senior title for 35 years when beating Sligo Grammar in last year’s final and sealed a place in this year’s final by beating the same opposition last week (see this week’s paper for full report).

It’s a fascinating final for the region, as Ballinasloe outfit Garbally go in search of a 45th title but a first since beating the Marist in the 2007 decider.
Garbally secured their place in the final by beating Colaiste Iognaid in their semi-final, and have shown impressive form this season, including beating Sligo Grammar in the pool stages.

However, the Marist will fancy their chances of retaining their title, even without last year’s captain Robbie Henshaw, who completed his education in the Athlone school last year and has since progressed to feature regularly for Connacht.

The senior final is preceeded by the Connacht Schools’ Development Cup decider between St Enda’s College and Clifden Community School at 2pm.