Northwest Vipers Edge Thrilling Victory Over West Dublin Rhinos

Match Snapshot

Opening Overview

The Northwest Vipers returned to Prehen Playing Fields for their second home game of the season following a short turnaround from their impressive road win in Wexford. Facing the #3 ranked West Dublin Rhinos, with the Vipers sitting at #2, this highly anticipated clash lived up to expectations.

In what proved to be a physical and hard-fought contest, both defences dominated for large periods of the game. The Vipers showed resilience and composure late on, producing a dramatic fourth-quarter comeback to secure an 8–7 victory and move to 3–1 on the season.

First Half Summary

The game opened as a defensive battle, with both teams applying pressure and limiting offensive opportunities. Quarterback Mike Naulty moved the ball effectively through short completions to multiple receiving options, but the Rhinos defence held firm to keep the Vipers scoreless.

The Vipers defence matched that intensity throughout the half. Josh Reed, Darren Quinn, and Niall Lyons were central to the effort, delivering key tackles and forcing multiple three-and-outs to keep the Rhinos offence under control.

Late in the second quarter, the Rhinos found a breakthrough, finishing a drive with a rushing touchdown before converting the extra point to take a 7–0 lead into halftime.

Second Half Summary

The defensive intensity continued into the second half, with both sides struggling to find consistent offensive rhythm.

The Vipers began to build momentum late in the fourth quarter as Mike Naulty connected with Lorcan McCartney, Jack Colhoun, and Lewis Lecky to move into scoring range.

With under two minutes remaining, the Vipers produced a moment of brilliance. On an outside run, Darren Quinn appeared to be stopped before lateralling the ball to Josh Reed, who powered into the endzone to bring the score to 7–6.

Head Coach Paul O’Donnell opted to go for the win on a 2pt Conversion, and Mike Naulty delivered, forcing his way over the line on a quarterback sneak behind a powerful push from the offensive line to give the Vipers an 8–7 lead.

The Rhinos responded with a final drive, moving into field goal range. However, on the last play of the game, JP McKee produced a crucial block to deny the attempt and seal the victory for the Vipers.

Key Performers

This was a true team performance, built on resilience and physicality across all units.

On offence, Mike Naulty (#17, Quarterback) was named Offensive MVP, managing the game effectively and delivering in the defining moment with the winning two-point conversion.

Defensively, Niall Lyons (#55, Defensive Line) earned Defensive MVP honours, producing a dominant display that included multiple tackles for loss and showing the impact of a true veteran presence throughout the game.

On special teams, JP McKee (#51, Linebacker) was named Special Teams MVP, with his game-winning field goal block proving decisive.

MVP awards for the 2026 season are proudly supported by The Branch Bar and Grill, Campbell’s Bar, The Old Dock’s and Georges Bar.

Closing & Next Fixture

The Vipers now turn their focus to their next challenge as they travel to Armoy to face the Causeway Giants on May 17th, marking their first meeting of the season. With momentum building, the Vipers will be aiming to continue their strong run of form.