SHANNON REMAIN in third spot in Division One A behind new leaders Young Munster and second placed Clontarf, following an exciting 18-18 draw with Old Belvedere at Coonagh.

Defending champions Old Belvedere looked set for their first victory when wing Peter Woods scored two tries for a 18-8 half-time lead. But Shannon hit back to level, left-wing Richie Mullane scoring the decisive try which Tadgh Bennett converted.

So Old Belvedere stay bottom without a win in their first five games. Blackrock, just ahead of them, continue to show an improvement but they still went down 19-18 to St Mary’s College at Stradbrook. The place kicking of Gavin Dunne was again a key factor for St Mary’s. The fullback landed four penalties and also converted a try from Matthew D’Arcy.

Blackrock had tries from Brendan Macken and Alex Dunlop but their late rally was not sufficient for them to overtake their rivals. St Mary’s have now won three out of five, as have Lansdowne following their 38-21 home success over struggling Dolphin. Impressively, Lansdowne scored five tries through Dave Kearney, Jack O’Connell, Willie Walsh, Matt Healy and Nelius Keogh to claim a bonus point.

Buccaneers have gone top of Division One B after a thrilling 24-17 home success over the previous leaders Ballynahinch. They had to come from behind with Shane Layden scoring the winning try seven minutes from the end.

Ballymena are third despite being held to an 11-11 home draw by UCD. The students drew level in the closing minutes with a try from Tom Fletcher.

Galwegians are off the bottom after winning 28-24 at home to Dungannon. Dave Clarke’s late try proved decisive. It was also close at the Mardyke where UCC went down 23-20 to Belfast Harlequins.