Northwest Vipers Book Place in 2026 Harp Bowl Final with Dramatic Semi-Final Victory
Match Snapshot
| Date | Sunday, July 4th 2026 |
| Gameweek | AFI Senior Kitted Harp Bowl Semi Final |
| Opponent | West Dublin Rhinos |
| Venue | City of Derry, RFC |
| Final Score | 23-21 |
| Season Record | 8-1 |
Opening Overview
The Northwest Vipers are Harp Bowl Final bound after defeating the West Dublin Rhinos 23–21 in a thrilling semi-final at City of Derry RFC.
With a place in the 2026 Harp Bowl on the line, the Vipers produced one of their best performances of the season, racing into a commanding lead before surviving a dramatic Rhinos comeback in front of a fantastic home crowd. The atmosphere at City of Derry RFC proved to be a huge factor as the supporters roared the Vipers on in the closing stages, helping the defence produce one final game-winning play.
First Half Summary
The Vipers defence wasted no time setting the tone, forcing the Rhinos into a three-and-out on their opening possession.
Then, on the very first offensive play of the game, quarterback Mike Naulty launched a short pass to Mike Mallon, who raced 90 yards for a spectacular touchdown, giving the Vipers an early 6–0 lead. The extra point attempt was unsuccessful, but momentum firmly belonged to the home side.
The defence continued to dominate throughout the opening half, consistently limiting the Rhinos offence and winning the battle at the line of scrimmage.
Early in the second quarter, Ishy Ahmad made one of the biggest plays of the game, stepping in front of a pass and returning it all the way for a Pick Six. Harry Burgess added the extra point to extend the lead to 13–0.
Before halftime, the Vipers produced another composed drive to move into field goal range. Burgess stepped up once again and calmly split the uprights to give the Vipers a 16–0 advantage at the break.
Second Half Summary
The Vipers carried their momentum into the third quarter when Mike Naulty and Mike Mallon combined for their second touchdown connection of the afternoon. Burgess converted the extra point to stretch the lead to 23–0.
The Vipers defence continued to impress, with Darren Quinn, JP McKee, Ishy Ahmad, and Niall Lyons leading a relentless defensive effort that kept the Rhinos under constant pressure.
However, the visitors refused to go away. A rushing touchdown sparked the comeback before a passing touchdown narrowed the gap further. The momentum shifted dramatically when the Rhinos recovered a Vipers fumble and returned it for a touchdown, suddenly making it 23–21.
With the game hanging in the balance, the Vipers defence needed one final stop. Backed by a vocal crowd at City of Derry RFC, the defence rose to the occasion. As the Rhinos drove into Vipers territory looking for the winning score, Sean Devlin stepped in with a crucial interception to seal the victory and send the Northwest Vipers to the 2026 Harp Bowl Final.
Key Performers
The Vipers booked their place in the Harp Bowl Final thanks to another outstanding team performance, with impact plays on offence, defence and special teams.
On offence, Mike Mallon (#22, Tight End) was named Offensive MVP after hauling in two touchdown receptions, including a spectacular 90-yard score on the opening offensive play that immediately swung momentum in the Vipers' favour. His big-play ability proved pivotal throughout the afternoon.
Defensively, Darren Quinn (#7, Linebacker) earned Defensive MVP honours following another tireless display. Quinn was everywhere for the Vipers, making plays against the run, in pass coverage and on special teams, helping set the physical tone for the defence throughout the contest.
On special teams, Harry Burgess (#29, Kicker) was named Special Teams MVP after another composed performance, converting two extra points and a crucial field goal just before halftime that extended the Vipers' lead to three scores.
MVP awards for the 2026 season are proudly supported by The Branch Bar and Grill, Campbell's Bar, The Old Docks and Georges Bar.
Closing & Next Fixture
The Northwest Vipers will face the South Dublin Panthers in the 2026 Harp Bowl Final on Saturday, July 18th, at Dubarry Park, Athlone. After an incredible season, the Vipers are now just one win away from becoming Harp Bowl Champions.
Unleash the Venom.
