A strong finish by Clonmel helped them to a 33-17 win over City of Derry in the first leg of the Division 2C relegation play-off at Ardgaoithe this afternoon

Clonmel started pretty well with a 12-0 lead after 20 minutes - Luke Hogan grabbing the lone try during this spell, with Darren Cass showing great accuracy from place kicks.

However, Derry stormed back into the game scoring two tries (both converted) and a penalty to lead 17-12 at the break.

An early penalty after half-time brought Clonmel back to 17-15 and then during the middle third of the second period there was a bit of a lull, before the hosts finished strongly.

Clonmel stormed away with a Dylan Cadogan penalty to push them 18-17 ahead before two late tries from Luke Hogan and Greg Carroll ensured the Tipperary side were left in good shape heading into next week.