Ulster Bank League Weekend Preview 28/1

SEVERAL Divisions are still in the balance in the Ulster Bank League. Ross O’Donoghue is here once more to help through this weekend’s action.

DIVISION 1A

Garryowen v Dolphin

The season is officially past the half waypoint, so its time for rematches and payback in the Ulster Bank League. Dolphin will be smarting from a 9-14  defeat last November and will have more respect for the speed of Garryowen’s back line. The Cork men also showed in last week’s defeat of Young Munster that their scrum is a force to be reckoned with.

Verdict: Dolphin to gain revenge.

Shannon v Clontarf

Shannon’s first fixture since the loss of their first lion. Tributes to the late Colm Tucker have been widespread & heartfelt, and the seniors will look to make their own contribution with a big performance at Thomond Park. A win will be a lot to ask though. Clontarf are strong and Shannon are struggling to put second half points on the board.

Verdict: An emotional day with an honest performance.

Young Munster v Blackrock College RFC

4th place Young Munster have a real opportunity to reignite their title campaign this Saturday.  They are the only top four side to play at home and Blackrock are struggling in Division 1A. The Cookies themselves are winless in 2012 but their problems are solvable: Discipline in the loose and focus in the scrum will be key in this tight encounter.

Verdict: Tom Clifford Park to witness the rebirth of title contenders

DIVISION 1B

Dungannon v U.L. Bohemian

Ulster’s achievements in the Heineken Cup are being mirrored at club level. The men from the North are dominating Division 1B and UL Bohs are next in the firing line with a trip to 2nd placed Dungannon. Bohs were at their best in defeating ‘Gannon 12-5 last October. Winning in Tyrone would require a new season’s best performance. The Limerick side are missing many of their Munster stars, so they can expect a long day at the office.

Verdict: Dungannon to have too much firepower for Bohs.

Galwegians v Bruff

Bruff are now in a position to save themselves. They toughed out a win over bottom side UCC last week and can jump to 8th in the table if they sneak a win in Galway. They’ve worked hard to plug the gaps in the rearguard and dominated Galwegians up front in their October meeting. Galwegians will be narrow favourites but this should be close.

Verdict: The tribesmen to win.

DIVISION 2A

Bective v Old Crescent

Old Crescent enter the 2nd half of their league campaign with more points earned than in the entirety of last season. They’ve already played 6 of the top 7 teams and lie in the relative safety of 11th place. They’ve kept busy with productive friendlies against Midleton, Nenagh Ormond and Young Munster and should provide a stern test for 8th place Bective.

Verdict: Bective to win this one.

Thomond v Dublin University

It’s been a 2 month league layoff in Division 2A. Everyone would need to blow off the cobwebs. Maybe 13th placed Thomond more than most. They did have an encouraging friendly win over Highfield of late but this Saturday represents a major step up. 1st placed Dublin University make the trip to Liam Fitzgerald Park and will fully expect to leave Limerick in the same position.

Verdict: No joy for Thomond.