Another Derby under ‘Friday night lights’ with both teams looking to bounce back from round 1 defeat is the highlight of this weekend’s AIL. Garryowen didn’t have the benefit of a Munster Senior Cup match prior to Round 1 and were caught cold by an aggressive Young Munster in Dooradoyle. They eventually showed some flashes of their running game and Robert Meyer’s try was one to savour. Shannon’s failure to turn pressure into points cost them in Musgrave Park. Ireland U-20 international Gareth Quinn-McDonogh looks the part as a Shannon outhalf but Colm Tucker Jnr will need more of a cutting edge from his pack to kick start his season.
Home advantage has counted for nothing in recent years between this fixture and with Munster academy kickers in both sides, expect it to go down to the wire.
Verdict: Draw [NOTE TO EDITOR: Not sitting on fence! See 2008 for details!]
Young Munster v St. Mary’s College
The performance of Young Munster’s half back pairing in the opening fixture suggests Mike Prendergast won’t be overly concerned by his own unavailability through injury. Kingsley and Staunton prospered behind a ferocious pack against their old club. Confidence will not be an issue in Tom Clifford Park on Saturday.
League contenders St. Mary’s are smarting from a derby defeat to new boys Belvedere and will be further frustrated by the handling errors that cost them. If Young Munster have knuckled down to training this week after their weekend high, then a home win could be on the cards.
Verdict: Young Munster.
Bruff v Buccaneers
Bruff didn’t enjoy their trip to Clontarf but will be desperate to lay down a marker on their home patch. Buccs bring an abrasive pack and Limerick flyer Brian Touhy to Kilballyowen Park.
Verdict: Buccaneers.
Dungannon v UL Bohemians
UL Bohemians have Dave Foley back in the 2nd row but will need everyone focused to face a Dungannon side who like to throw the ball around. Bohs season unlikely to upturn up north. Verdict: Dungannon.
Division 2
Thomond v Midleton
Liam Fitzgerald Park 2:30pm
Verdict: Thomond
Ballymena v Old Crescent
Eaton Park 2:30pm
Verdict: Ballymena
