Ireland scored inside the final minute to defeat the Netherlands 18-13 at Navan Rugby Club as the Level 2 series of games in the 2024/25 IFAF European Championships got underway.
The Wolfhounds led 10-0 at halftime through an Andy Quinn field goal and a two-yard run from Tom Donovan with Quinn tagging on the extra point.
The Netherlands hit back with a touchdown by running back Tim DeHaan from three yards out to open the second half. However a safety increased Ireland’s advantage to five points. That was soon wiped out though as the Lions scored again when quarterback Isaiah Trouwloon connected with wide receiver Rabi Bunga for an eight yard touchdown to give the Lions a one-point lead late in the game.
Photo: Charisse MaeDucs
Down 13-12, Ireland snatched a dramatic victory as quarterback Matthew O’Meara connected with John Hanbury from 15 yards out in traffic. Despite failing to convert a two-point try, Ireland held on for a memorable win as the Netherlands’ final Hail Mary pass fell incomplete.
