History was made when the first domestic wheelchair rugby league game was played in Ireland, Leinster beating Munster 58-30 at Gormanston School in Leinster. Toby Burton-Carter led the way for the hosts with four tries and six goals, Maurice Noonan also crossing four times for the visitors.

Ireland wheelchair coach Phil Roberts, who refereed the game, commented: “This was a truly historic occasion in the game’s development in Ireland. A fantastic match, with the greater experience of the home side a deciding factor. It was also the first wheelchair RL match for over half of the players and the potential in this squad is incredible. A huge thank you must go to the volunteers, sponsors, players and supporters who have got us to this point, with an exciting future ahead.”

Orán Spain opened and closed the try scoring for Leinster, Noonan replying before Burton-Carter took centre stage with his consecutive four-peat. 

The scores were level until around the 25-minute point when Leinster’s internationals to give them a 42-10 lead at the break.

In the second half the Reds of Munster changed their tactics, which included kicking early in the tackle count, and forced three quick scores, Leinster rallying late on to claim the win.

Ireland RL chair, Jim Reynolds, commented: “Our first ever domestic Wheelchair RL game could not have been more of a positive advert for the game. Both clubs were laced with experienced players from the national team but also had new recruits in equal measure. 

“They produced some incredible action which Phil Roberts readily admits has given him some selection headaches preparing for our tour and Test match in France later this month. To see such quality, enthusiasm, and fun being had has been both a joy and a revelation.”

There are plans now to develop wheelchair teams in Ulster and Connacht.

LEINSTER 58
Chris Walker, Conor Dufficy, Jack Shannon-Cole, Mel Griffith, Mikey O’Cearra, Orán Spain, Paddy Forbes, Sean McCullagh, Toby Burton-Carter

Tries: Spain (2, 79), Burton-Carter (9, 18, 25, 28), O’Cearra (30, 56), Shannon-Cole (32), Griffiths (38), Dufficy (67)
Goals: Burton-Carter 6, Spain 1

MUNSTER 30
James McCarthy, Maurice Noonan, Darren Dineen, Cian Horgan, Ellie Sheehy, Cormac Downey, Mark O’Shea, Jason Muldoon, Colin McCloverty

Tries: Noonan (7, 15, 45, 61), Horgan (41), O’Shea (48)
Goals: Horgan 1, McCarthy 2 

Referees: Phil Roberts & Steve Hogan

Half time: 42-10