Two late tries to Iona helped seal an unlikely come from behind victory over close rivals Villanova on the opening weekend of the 2021 AIC competition.

Villanova led 18-10 late in the match and appeared to be in control, before momentum swung in the visitors favour.

“It was a wet afternoon and Villa looked in a winning position leading 18-10 in the second half,” Iona Head of Sport Keith Harron told Rugby News.

“Our fullback Jeremy Trappett made a strong 40 metre run to score the first of the comeback tries, then winger Sully Hoad scored the match winner on the bell after some consistent phase play and excellent game control from Iona No.10 Jordan Plath.”

Harron said Iona managed the game and possession particularly well in the final stages of a match played in tough conditions.

“Our front row and our inside backs played well, they created plenty of opportunities. I also thought out back row defended well,” Harron continued.

“Villa were really consistent until late in the game. Their young No.10 defended very well and looks to be a promising player.”

Lauries, Padua and St Patrick’s also claimed impressive victories on an intriguing opening weekend of the 2021 competition.

All four winning sides play back to back clashes against round one winners in rounds two and three, with all clashes likely to have premiership implications.

“With St Laurence’s defeating Ashgrove, the competition is wide open,” Harron told Rugby News.

“Our focus will be on our week to week performance. We’ll look to make less mistakes and continue to play with a positive team attitude.”

Iona travel to play St Peter’s in round two action.