Marist Ashgrove are still hopeful of claiming the AIC premiership in 2021, despite dropping their opening game of the season to St Laurence’s earlier this month. 

Lauries shocked the competition heavyweights on the opening weekend of the season and remain in the box seat to claim an outright premiership, however Marist coach Brendan Kiernan said his side isn’t losing hope. 

“It was disappointing to drop that opening game to Lauries in round one but the boys have shown great resilience to bounce back from that and produce some very strong performances since,” Kiernan told Rugby News. 

Following the 15-7 loss in round one, Marist have scored 124 points in their past three matches, beating Eddies, Villanova and Padua in style. 

“We’re playing a really positive attacking style of rugby,” Kiernan said. 

“Our front row has been instrumental in laying a strong platform. Jack Condon at No.7 has performed well each week. 

“Then in the backs, Tate Cole at flyhalf has led from the midfield, Dwayne Ludwick has found some form on the wing and Pat Tiernay at fullback has shown some real flair in counter attack.”

While Kiernan admitted his Marist’s game management could improve, he said he was pleased with the work his side is putting in on and off the rugby field. 

Ashgrove face Iona and St Peter’s in the coming weeks before a final round showdown against St Patrick’s that could decide the AIC premiership, if Lauries drop one of their remaining two matches. 

“We need to prepare well week in, week out to play the type of rugby that I know this side is capable of. 

“You’ve got to respect every team in this competition and be accurate in every game you play but that final round clash against St Patrick’s at home is shaping to be a fitting conclusion to the season.”

Lauries also face St Patrick’s next weekend and will need to win to keep their hopes of an outright premiership on track. 

Despite the high stakes, Kiernan said his side won’t be paying too much attention to that clash. 

“It’s simple, we’ve got to focus on what we can control and nothing else. If we can finish the season with a 6-1 record, then we would have given ourselves every chance to get a strong result.”