In an intense battle at Takumi Park, Limerick, Navan Senior Men's 1st XV secured a vital 24-19 victory over Old Crescent in their penultimate game of the Energia All-Ireland League Division 2A campaign. This win ensures Navan's status in Division 2A for next season, coinciding with the club's centenary celebrations.
Buoyed by their recent win against divisional leaders Nenagh Ormond, Navan approached the game with confidence. The team displayed determination and skill, securing a crucial victory against Old Crescent.
Navan started the game strongly, with Peter McEntagart scoring a try in the left corner after 13 minutes, following pressure from the Navan forwards.
Kyle Dixon added to Navan's lead with a try on the right corner, converted by Mark Farrell on 29 minutes.
Just before halftime, Kyle Dixon scored his second try, swiftly running through a gap in Old Crescent's defense after a quick-tap penalty. Farrell's conversion extended Navan's lead.
Paddy Fox sealed a bonus point for Navan just before halftime, sprinting from outside Navan's 22-meter line to score.
Old Crescent fought back in the second half, with Ronan McKenna adding penalties and Gareth Quinn-McDonogh scoring a converted try.
Despite Old Crescent's late surge, Navan's defense held firm, securing the crucial win.
Kyle Dixon was named "The Central" Player of the Match for his standout performance, including two crucial tries.League Standing: While Navan's chances of reaching the playoffs may be out of reach, this vital win secures their position in Energia All-Ireland League Division 2A for next season.
Navan will aim to finish their league campaign on a positive note when they face Ballymena at Balreask Old on Saturday, 6th April.
"The Central" Player of the Match: Kyle Dixon
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, Ryan Healy, Conor Ryan, Jake Matthews, Robbie Lailvaux, Harry Devlin.
