Although Clontarf always looked more likely winners of this first-round Smithwicks Old Belvedere floodlit Cup match for a long time last night, it looked as if Greystones' disciplined defence would have the final say.

With 10 minutes to go, the Wicklow side looked to have weathered the storm after withstanding four five-metre scrums. However, the ball was not fully cleared and two minutes later, full back Mark Woods glided in to score near the posts. Former Greystones stalwart Richie Murphy kicked the conversion and the Dublin side were in front for the first time.

Greystones had started well; Mark Wyse opening their account with an early penalty. They looked content to soak up the pressure and hit Clontarf on the break. That's exactly what happened in the 28th minute when a swift break-out by their forwards at the left-hand touch-line saw lock Paul Dunne driving over after taking a pass from the excellent Fergal O'Hanlon.

Wyse failed to land the difficult conversion and Greystones turned round leading 8-0.

Clontarf got the second half off to an ideal start. Mat Smith's great break through the middle sucking in the cover, allowing Paul Noble to scamper over after just two minutes.

While Clontarf virtually owned the ball for the next 15 minutes, Greystones kept on putting in the big tackles. On a rare sortie up field in the 57th minute, Greystones were awarded a penalty from in front of the posts and Mark Wyse made it 11-5.

Crucially, however, Clontarf were still within range and Wood's try and Murphy's conversion just saw them home.