ROUND six of the Ulster Bank League takes place this weekend with some mouth watering ties in prospect. With a Limerick derby between Young Munster and Garryowen to bring the weekend to a climax, rugby fans countywide will have a feast of grass roots rugby to choose from.
Saturday November 17
Ulster Bank League Division 1A:
Lansdowne v U.L. Bohemian,
Aviva Stadium, 2.30;
UL Bohemians lost to Young Munster last weekend at home. The Robins might have one eye on their up coming Munster Senior Cup final against Cork Con, but should they not be 100 per cent focused, old friend Cian Aherne and Kieran Essex of Lansdowne will put them to the sword.
Verdict: Home win for Lansdowne on the good pitch.
Division 1B:
Bruff v Belfast Harlequins,
Kilballyowen Park, 2.30;
Three places and eight points separate these sides in division 1B. Bruff have struggled this season to live with the strength of teams up front. This weekend however could see a surprise. Quins are very inconsistent, so Bruff know they have to take their chances at home.
Verdict: Bruff to kick on from a home win here.
Division 2A:
Old Crescent v Old Wesley,
Rosbrien, 2.00;
Old Wesley are 2-2 while the hosts are 1-1-2 from their opening four games. The advantage of home should be enough here for Crescent. The 110 points conceded so far will have to be addressed however. No time like the present.
Verdict: Crescent to get their second win.
Division 2B:
Navan v Thomond, Balreask, 2.30;
It has not been pretty for Thomond so far this season. A draw last time out however has given some encouragement to the blue charges.
Verdict: Can’t see past Navan here.
Sunday November 18
Ulster Bank League Division 1A:
Shannon v St. Mary’s College,
Thomond Park, 2.30;
Mr Hickey and Mr Tuohy did a great job with Shannon in one week for their narrow loss to Garryowen. What will two weeks hold for them. St Mary’s are second from bottom, so this is already a relegation battle.
Verdict: Shannon to claim a win, finally.
Young Munster v Garryowen, Clifford Park, 2.30;
The tie of the weekend will see fourth placed Young Munster take on second placed Garryowen. Two of the three meanest defences meet this weekend is what is assured to be a tight encounter. With Munster ‘A’ playing Thursday, little is know of team line outs, but traditions alone will add spice to this one.
Verdict: Going to sit on the fence. A draw.
