THE ORGANISERS of the Ulster Bank League could not have planned it better. Going into the last weekend of fixtures for the season, there is still so much to play for.
With the top four playoffs back this season in Division 1A, Young Munster’s are still in the hunt for a play off spot.
The ‘Cookies’ host leaders Lansdowne at Greenfields on Saturday at 2.30pm, knowing that they need to better Ballynahinch’s result against Clontarf, if they are to squeeze in.
The tie of the weekend for Limerick sides however is Garryowen’s trip to Galwegians. The light blues sit on top of the table, one point ahead of this weekend’s opponents. A draw will do Garryowen, but the pre season favourites for promotion will want to secure the crown with a win. This game should be a cracker and is for all purposes, a Division 1B league final.
In the same Division, Shannon will end the season in Malone with the prospect of finishing as high up as 5th in the table.
UL Bohemians, now safe from relegation, will bid farewell to coach Colm Tucker, who moves on to pastures new. Also bidding goodbye is Mossy Lawler. The former Munster star will play his last game of rugby on Saturday at Thomond Park. A huge crowd is expected at the ground to bring down the curtain on a great career.
In Division 2A, Thomond entertain Naas. The two sides are chasing a top six spot to maintain their third tier status in next season’s restructured All Ireland league. A home win would guarantee this for Thomond, who deserve same after a wonderful season.
In Division 2B, both Bruff and Old Crescent look to be set for All Ireland league status again next year, while Richmond look as if they are bound for a play off against the Junior Round robin winners. The Limerick side are currently second from bottom of 2B.
All games are off at 2.30pm
