All-Ireland League Round-upFor the second time in as many games Cork Constitution escaped without any damage to their unbeaten record, despite being held for most of Saturday's contest in Carlow.
A late try from talisman Ultan O'Callaghan, vitally converted by Pat McCarthy, broke the hearts of the home support at Oak Park.
The 16-14 result means only Shannon and Buccaneers are now within striking distance of the Corkmen.
Buccaneers had little problem disposing of St Mary's at Templeville Road, scoring four tries in their 44-17 victory.
Ballymena are now sitting pretty in the fourth play-off spot on 26 points, six points clear of Belfast Harlequins and Clontarf, after they ended the Dublin club's 14-match unbeaten home record.
International lock Gary Longwell, currently struggling to find a starting slot with Ulster, graced the league with his sizeable presence, while the north-Dublin club was able to welcome back centre James Downey. However, the absence of regular place-kicker Dave McAllister proved vital as the repeat of last year's final was decided by the boot of Dirkie Strydom, on a 12-6 scoreline.
Harlequins were inspired to victory by scrumhalf Reece Spee who ran in four tries in their 47-12 thrashing of Galwegians.
Dolphin eased their relegation worries with a comfortable win over fellow strugglers Lansdowne thanks to a combination of forward power and the boot of John O'Mahoney.
Elsewhere, Garryowen finally appear to have got their season back on track, as they proved too strong for Dungannon, running out 21-8 victors. Jeremy Staunton was a class above the rest in general play and he also kicked two penalties.
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