AFTER an extended break, the AIL finally makes its return this weekend with all Limerick sides searching for wins for very different reasons.
In Division 1A, the solitary Limerick representative Young Munster play host to St Mary’s College. This game will have a huge bearing on the these sides seasons as Munster’s are currently two points off the final play-off place, while being just three off the final relegation place, occupied by this weekend’s opponents. This game will be a very tight and these warring sides will be separated by the smallest of margins.
In Division 1B, struggling UL Bohemians face a Buccaneers who are mid-table and trying to see the season out safely. It’s hard to see Bohs winning this one., but they do have more to play for.
In the same division, promotion chasing Garryowen face relegation battlers Malone in what should be an easy win for the home side who are looking to close the gap to leaders Galwegians.
Also in Division 1B, Shannon look to pull further away from the relegation mire with a game in Thomond Park against Ballymena who may still have faint hopes of sealing a promotion spot. Taking all into account this should be an intriguing game which Shannon would do well to win.
In Division 2A , Thomond go to Donnybrook to face Bective Rangers who are rooted to the foot of the table and are certain to go down under the new rules. Thomond are flying high in sixth and can still seal a promotion spot with wins in their final games. Their away form is worrying but it should be business as usual against Bective.
In Division 2B, there are three Limerick sides in action. Richmond are in serious trouble in their battle to beat the drop and this week face promotion chasing Armagh who will take no prisoners as the business end of the season rolls up. Any result for Richmond will be hard fought with Armagh form taken into account.
Old Crescent face into their game against Boyne in good shape and are currently sitting eight. Boyne currently sit third from bottom and this should be a win for Old Crescent.
Bruff are the best placed of the Limerick sides in this division and sit seventh, going into this game against Greystones who will look to overcome one of their fellow promotion chasers. Home advantage is looking to prove crucial and the backing of the home fans should spur Greystones to a win.
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