WEEK two of the AIL comes to town this weekend and with some mixed results in last weekend’s opening ties, the six Limerick sides in action will be looking for wins once more.
Division 1A
Saturday, 2.30pm, Castle Avenue
Clontarf v Garryowen
The men from Dooradoyle made a disappointing start to the new campaign getting beaten by Dolphin. It may be early days but they will need to alter their game significantly if they wish to avoid the same result this weekend. For the ‘Baby Blues’ this could be a long afternoon against a tough ‘Tarf’ side.
Prediction: Clontarf
Saturday, 2.30pm, Tom Clifford Park
Young Munster v Ballynahinch
The ‘Cookies’ made a superb start with victory over Mary’s while their counterparts, the newly promoted Connacht men, were defeated. Munsters looked very strong and this weekend they will be hoping to push on from that good start. On paper it should be a comfortable victory, but they will have to be wary of their Western opponents.
Prediction: Munsters
Division 1B
Saturday, 2.30pm, Corinthian Park
Corinthians v Shannon
The Coonagh men started the way they finished last term culminating in a disappointing defeat while their opponents came out of the blocks flying. There is no need to push the panic button as of yet but victory is essential if they wish for promotion. Corinthians are here for the taking in what promises to be a tight encounter.
Prediction: Shannon
Saturday, 2.30pm, Annacotty
UL Bohs v Belfast Harlequins
Bohs were defeated first day out on their return to 1B by an impressive Terenure side. They will need to put that performance behind them and focus on grabbing a victory here. Harlequins were unimpressive in defeat last weekend and now face a long journey to Limerick. Home advantage should swing it in Bohs favour.
Prediction: Bohs
Division 2A
Friday, 7.30pm, Rosbrien
Old Crescent v Bruff
The first Limerick derby of the season promises to be an intriguing affair, with both sides lost on the opening day. This could potentially be a high scoring game as both sides proved last weekend that they are capable of conceding. Crescent have the superior quality and as long as they can forget about their performance against Wesley, the home side should prevail.
Prediction: Crescent
Division 2B
Saturday, 2.30pm, Richmond Park
Richmond v Greystones
AIL returns to Rhebogue with the home side itching to make up for last week’s defeat. Greystones will be stiff opponents, but Richmond will be giving everything to ensure that they make Richmond Park a fortress. Expect a tight affair, but the home advantage may be crucial.
Prediction: Richmond to shade it
Saturday, 2.30pm, Spollanstown
Tullamore v Thomond
Thomond were quick out of the traps with a very impressive opening day victory. However, Tullamore proved last season as junior champions that they are a force to be reckoned with. Another game that should go to the wire.
Prediction: Thomond
by Stephen Kinsella
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