GREATER power up front enabled Greystones to see off Monkstown's challenge in a very closely fought Leinster Cup tie at Dr Hickey Park yesterday.

Monkstown led 6-0 after an uninspiring first quarter through two penalties from out-half Shane O'Meara. David Nolan got Greystones off the mark with a 22nd minute penalty and five minutes later centre Damian Dowling had a try after his forwards had battered their way to the line. O'Meara and Nolan exchanged penalties to leave Greystones 13-9 up at half-time.

Monkstown scored a try in their very first attack in the second half, full back Hugh McMahon touching down. Nolan put the home side back in front with a penalty, but Monkstown's Neal Ryan then crossed for their second try. Shane O'Meara added the conversion to leave them leading 21-16.

The tide turned when Liam Murphy crashed over five minutes later with several Monkstown players still clinging to him. Nolan added the conversion

Greystones chose to run a penalty 10 metres out in the 72nd minute, and it was clear Monkstown had had enough. Jason Mullins charged in virtually unopposed. Number eight Jamie Murphy scored Greystones's last try, diving on the ball after the pack had forced Monkstown over their line from a serum five metres out.