In a crucial Energia All-Ireland League Division 2A Round Fifteen clash, Navan Senior Men's 1st XV secured a hard-fought 19-15 victory over Banbridge at Rifle Park. This win is a significant step for Navan as they aim to secure their All-Ireland League Division 2A status for the next season.

Navan, coming off a positive win at home against Malone, started the game brightly with intent, taking the ball on hard carries and building phases. Fullback Rory Gordon made an impact early on, running through a gap off a five-meter lineout to score and convert after Banbridge was penalized at the breakdown. Mistakes at the breakdown became a recurring theme throughout the match, with both teams facing penalties.
Banbridge's challenge was compounded when their blindside flanker was sin-binned for foul play, and Navan capitalized on the temporary advantage. Liam Carroll touched down off a forward drive, and with Gordon's successful conversion, Navan took a 14-7 lead into halftime.
In the second half, Banbridge struck back with an early try, closing the gap to just two points. Navan faced challenges in converting opportunities near the home side's 5-meter line but maintained their commitment to tackle defense. Banbridge took the lead with a penalty kick, but Navan responded with determination.
In the final minutes, an excellent catch and drive from a lineout led to Jamie Kavanagh scoring the winning try in the right corner. This crucial victory positions Navan well in their quest to secure All-Ireland League Division 2A status for the next season.

Navan will enter the last break period in the season's campaign before facing league leaders Nenagh Ormond at Balreask Old in Round Sixteen on Saturday, 23rd March.

"The Central" Player of the Match: Jamie Kavanagh.

Navan Men's 1st XV Squad "Sponsored by Hannon Travel":

Rory Gordon, Paddy Fox, Sean McEntagart (Capt), Peter McEntagart, Kyle Dixon, Evan Dixon, Mark Farrell, Liam Carroll, Jamie Kavanagh, Jordan Finney, Eoghan Noonan, Conor Hand, Ben McEntagart, Leon Akopian, Harry Hester, David Clarke, Leigh Jackson, Conor Ryan, Robbie Lailvaux, Harry Devlin.