Once again Ross O’Donoghue previews this weekend’s Ulster Bank League Fixtures, involving Limerick sides
Division 1A
Blackrock College v Young Munster
Young Munster are in trophy winning form of late. They measured themselves against the best in the league and came out on top with back to back wins over Cork Con and Belvo’. This week’s challenge is a trip to re-emerging Blackrock College. If the Cookies can keep handling errors to a minimum, a win could be on the cards. Verdict: Blackrock to win
Shannon v Old Belvedere
Shannon and Cork Con are old dogs in the AIL but last Saturday’s 17-0 defeat showed Shannon need new tricks. They’ve the worst ‘Points against’ column in Division 1A while their opponents on Saturday are the most prolific. Old Belvedere possess raw pace out wide, but if Shannon can reduce errors in midfield, the home speedsters could make the difference. Verdict: Old Belvedere to win
Garryowen v St. Mary’s
Garryowen are officially out of excuses for being bottom of the league. They failed to empty the tank against Blackrock and were punished with a home defeat to a beatable side. With a relegation play-off looming and a severe fixture list ahead, a win against St. Mary’s in Dooradoyle on Saturday is an absolute must.
Verdict: Garryowen to win
Division 1B
Buccaneers v UL Bohemians
UL Bohemians are firmly back in contention after last week’s thrilling win over Bruff. The fact they pulled through with a trio of Munster players makes it all the more impressive. This weekend, a trip to Athlone to face Buccs is a huge challenge but a win would put an automatic promotion spot within reach.
Verdict: Buccaneers to win
Bruff v Galwegians
Last weekend’s Limerick derby in Division 1B was billed as a launchpad for promotion. Bruff came off second best but they can keep the pressure on UL Bohs with a win over bottom side Galwegians in Kilballyowen this weekend. If that doesn’t work out, there’s always an All Ireland Cup final to look forward to. Verdict: Bruff to win
Division 2
Terenure College v Old Crescent
Old Crescent finally have some breathing space between themselves and the relegation play-off spot. Eugene McGovern inspired them to a rare win over Corinthians but Division 2 doesn’t let teams rest on their laurels so a tricky trip to Terenure is the next challenge. Verdict: Terenure to win
Thomond v Malone
It’s 16th versus 11th as Thomond welcome the men of Belfast to Liam Fitzgerald Park. Malone broke a losing streak stretching back to October when they overcame 14 man Ballymena last time out. How Thomond would crave a win like that. If it doesn’t come here, relegation looks more probable than possible.
Verdict: Thomond to win
