The much anticipated (?) clash of Portmarnock and ALSAA sub aqua clubs took place last night at the PSLC pool.  ALSAA seemed keen arriving about an hour and a half before we did and completing an aquatic version of the Haka before proceedings commenced. 

The first round of the competition - the Lighted Candle Relay (don’t ask) - looked like certain victory for PSAC but the necessity of a candle re-light on the last leg saw ALSAA surge ahead of us and claim first blood. Although disappointed by this early set back, Round #2, the Chocolate Relay (don’t ask), was won by PSAC. This despite us fielding our most erratic swimmer who almost collided with the side-wall of the pool before turning left and almost colliding with his competitor. Despite our apparent victory, referee Finbar Murphy, in a highly controversial decision, awarded equal points to both teams on account of alleged irregularities on the part of PSAC during the course of the race. An appeal has been lodged with CMAS.

Round #3, the Aquatic Tug Of War, was balanced on a knife-edge before being won by ALSAA 2-1. The final round comprised a 10-minute game of Murder Ball - like water polo but with spear tackles and eye gouging permitted. ALSAA launched repeated attacks on the PSAC goal but were repelled by a stout defence marshaled by goalie Pat ‘Schmeichel’ McArdle. His superb deflection of a high but dipping cross in the dying seconds of the first half brought PSAC supporters to their feet and drew immediate comparisons with Gordon Banks magnificent save in the ‘70 World Cup. The second half saw a resurgent PSAC pressing forward in numbers seeking that elusive opening score. However this tactic of abandoning our traditional 2-2-16 formation left us severely exposed at the back. A late counter-attack by ALSAA saw a loose ball played back to one of their unmarked forwards who quickly capitalised to score from 10 feet out. Appeals for off-side were ignored and the final whistle saw the match, overall victory and the Golden Fin Trophy going to ALSAA. Commiserations to PSAC. Congratulations to ALSAA. Best of luck to Michael O’Leary on his acquisition of their airline.