UUC were unable to go one step further than last year failing to reach the All Ireland Division 2 Final, when they were defeated by Carlow IT at Monkstown RFC, Dublin.

It was UUC who started much the brighter with some great driving play from their excellent lineout. They soon had Carlow under pressure and were awarded a penalty which Alan Whitcroft converted. At this stage the UUC forwards were well on top but they failed to capitialise on their possession and the team didn't use the light favourably breeze to play for territory. When the forwards released the ball they tried to play an expansive game only to be caught in possession behind the gain line, resulting in several penalties for Carlow who kicked deep into the UUC half. This territory allowed Carlow to move the ball and it was soon evident that they had potent runners in their back division. Carlow themselves proved to be effective from the catch and drive and it was from this that they scored their first try. Quickly followed by a second following good interplay. At this stage Carlow were well on top and only a poor day from their kicker kept UUC in touch. Once UUC weathered this period of Carlow pressure they began to reassert themselves and after sustained pressure Sam Hall went over close to the touch line to leave the half time score at 10-8 in Carlow's favour.

After the restart Carlow started much the stronger and it wasn't long before they had added 2 tries, one of which was converted, and a drop goal. This left UUC trailing 25-8 and needing some inspiration to get back into the game. Their heads however did not drop and it was at this stage when they started playing some of their best rugby. They repeatedly worked their way into the Carlow half and again close to the line winger Sam Hall forced his way over, narrowing the gap to 25-13. UUC kept exerting the pressure but couldn't add to their score. Carlow did likewise but only stern defence from UUC kept them out. Eventually the referee blew up for full time leaving the UUC boys disappointed at again not reaching the final but knowing that with another semi final this Saturday (Gordon West Cup) they have another bite of the apple.

On the day every player worked hard and never gave up. The backs did all they could against a pacey outfit and the forwards more than held their own against a more than capable Carlow pack. Amongst the UUC players to catch the eye, hard working flanker Michael Dunleavy just about stood out from the other players. His excellent lineout work and high work rate earning him my UUC man of the match.