The AIL is back and once more Ross O’Donoghue previews this weekends action.
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Division 1A
Blackrock v Shannon
If Shannon had to pick a venue to poach points from in Dublin, then Stradbrook would be it. The highlight of the season in Coonagh was a five try performance against Blackrock in January. A repeat is unlikely here but Shannon would take a huge step towards safety if they can emulate Young Munster by beating the Dubs on their home patch. Verdict: Blackrock to win.
Garryowen v Old Belvedere
Garryowen’s remaining fixtures don’t favour their bid to avoid the wooden spoon in Division 1a. There’s no automatic relegation from the top tier this year but if Dooradoyle form doesn’t improve soon then the Division 1B hopefuls will fancy their chances in a play off. Joint leaders Old Belvedere are the toughest of opponents but Garryowen have performed against the big guns in the division. Verdict: Draw.
Dolphin v Young Munster
Young Munster have an achievable goal of ranking 3rd in the Division 1a table. They lie two points behind St. Mary’s but have an arguably easier run in than their Dublin rivals, which starts this Saturday with a trip to Dolphin. The cork men’s patchy form of late has seen them slip down the table and Young Munster’s defensive record could see them capitalize. Verdict: Young Munster to win.
Division 1B
Bruff v Lansdowne
Bruff need a win this weekend. After a long period of midtable solidity, the cup specialists are now just 2 points off the relegation play-off spot. Lansdowne have poor form on the road, but have everything to play for with promotion chances in their own hands. If Bruff perform, they do U.L. Bohs a big favour. If they don’t, it could be squeaky bum time in Kilballyowen Park. Verdict: Bruff to win.
Clontarf v UL Bohemians
U.L. Bohemians travel to Dublin this weekend to face the already crowned Division 1B champions. Clontarf sealed promotion with 2 games to spare and if they take their foot of the pedal, it would be a major boost to ambitions in Annacotty. If Ireland U-20 starlet JJ Hanrahan is available, Bohs might sneak it. Verdict: UL Bohemians.
Division 2
Thomond v UCD
Thomond currently occupy last place in Division 2, which means a relegation play off but they won’t want to run that risk. They have a game in hand and all of their remaining fixtures are in Limerick, including a mouth watering derby against fellow strugglers Old Crescent. Current leaders UCD will feel very far from home in Liam Fitzgerald park but should have enough in the tank to pull through. Verdict: Dublin Students
Ballynahinch v Old Crescent
Old Crescent may be one place above the drop zone, but they are far from safety with a tricky run in. They head north on Saturday in need of a win but they can draw inspiration from relegation rivals Clonakilty. The West Cork men pulled 8 tries out of nowhere to win in Ulster and leapfrog Old Crescent. Eugene McGovern & co have to return the favour to gain some breathing space. Verdict: Ballynahinch to win.
To see more of Ross, log on to www.comeonmunster.ie and for more on Limerick Rugby, log on to www.limerickrugby.ie
