WITH only three rounds left in the regular season, it really is make or break for the Limerick based AIL clubs this weekend.
Starting in Division 1A, the tie of the round sees first placed Cork Con take on second placed Shannon. Shannon lost out last weekend to UCC in the Munster senior cup semi final, but that Shannon XV will bare little or no resemblance to the side that will take to the field this weekend. Some fans may see this as a tough game for Shannon,
but the previous meeting between the two sides was a close affair. A 9-8 loss for Shannon did not tell the real story of that encounter. The game kicks off at 2.30pm in Temple Hill, being refereed by Alain Roland.
Verdict: Cork Con
Seventh placed Clontarf face sixth placed Garryowen on Saturday. Garryowen look to have done enough in recent weeks to have secured their Division 1A status for next week. Garryowen were on the end of a 18-3 defeat earlier in the season, but recent form will make for a close game this time around.
Verdict: Garryowen
The only Division 1A game to be in Limerick this weekend is the meeting of UL Bohs and Dolphin. The two side played out a 3-0 game earlier in the season. UL Bohs being the winner on that occasion. The Munster squad announcement on Friday morning will have an effect on this tie. If Nick Williams does not make it for Munster, the big number eight could have a huge impact on this tie. UL Bohs are desperate for wins and will be looking for three from three as well as other results going their way to stay safe.
Verdict: UL Bohs
In Division 1B, Young Munster take on UCC. This could very well be a dress rehearsal for the Munster Senior Cup final should Cork Con ever turn up to play the cookies. As it stands, this is a second versus third battle. Young Munster have been the form team this season but have somewhat stumbled in recent times. A win away win go along way to putting their promotion chase back on the right track. A 14-10 win for the Munsters early in the season shows that it can be done.
Verdict: Young Munsters
In Division 2 on Sunday, Bruff will look to maintain their recent run of sparkling form when they travel to take on Old Wesley. The ‘Wes’ are seventh at the moment, but third placed Bruff should have enough for this one.
Verdict: Bruff
Eleventh placed Thomond travel to Corinthians this weekend. The twelfth placed side will be more than a match for the Limerick men, but with Declan Cusack in great form, Thomond should have enough to get over the line in this one.
Verdict: Thomond
The final game of the weekend involving a Limerick side is the meeting of Old Crescent and DLSP. The Rosbrien venue will host the fourteenth versus second tie. DLSP will expect to come to Limerick and roll over Crescent fairly easily. However, this will not be the case. The home side have been improving after a slow start and could just win this one. The head says DLSP, the heart says Old Crescent
Verdict: The head. DLSP.
In some schools rugby news, The Munster Branch have confirmed the following arrangements for Schools Junior Cup Semi-Finals: Tuesday 9th March, Glenstal v Crescent at Young Munster RFC KO 3.00pm. On Wednesday 10th March, Ardscoil RÃs v CBC at Garryowen FC KO 3.30pm
This Sunday sees the second semi final of the Munster Senior schools Cup as St Munchins take on PBC at Tom Clifford Park, kick off is at 2.30pm.
Best of luck to all Limerick schools in their respect ties.
