THE SEAT Munster Senior Schools Cup final will be an all Limerick affair taking place this St Patrick’s Day in Thomond Park.
The showpiece event for Schools rugby will see current holders Crescent College Comprehensive taking on Ard Scoil Rís in the decider.
The two teams have reached the final playing an open and attractive game of rugby with both sets of coaches looking to play a hugely expansive game, a move from the traditional 10-man which has threatened to stifle the game in the province.
Ard Scoil Rís, the pre tournament favourites, have qualified for the final with wins over Glenstal, CBC and St Munchin’s. In an interesting note, current head coach of Ard Scoil, Mossy Lawlor was a member of their squad the last time the Ennis Road team reached the last stage of the competition, back in 1996. That side also included such names as Declan Lynch and Paul Neville.
With Ard Scoil the original favourites and in search of Harty Cup and SEAT Schools Cup double, the Crescent Comprehensive come into this weekend’s clash as the bookies favourites to make it two in a row. Racking up wins over CBC, PBC and Castletroy College on the way to Thomond Park, the 2013 champions have played a fast, physical game, mixing up both cutting lines of running with forward grunt. With such a tight game in store, all roads lead to Thomond Park this coming Monday 17 for what is sure to be a thriller. Kick off is at 3pm.
In other rugby news, the Ulster Bank League returns to our fields this weekend. Garryowen will be looking to keep their relegation survival hopes alive this weekend as they take on Cork Con in Dooradoyle. The Blues are now just three points from a relegation playoff spot. Young Munster travel to Old Belvedere in the same division.
In Division 1B, the pick of the ties is the local derby between UL Bohemians and Shannon in Annacotty. Both sides have eyes on second place and the loser of this game could find themselves secured in Division 1B for one more year.
In Division 2A, Bruff entertain Queens while Old Crescent entertain Ballymena in Rosbrien. Both sides need wins, and soon. In 2B, Richmond travel to Suttonians, while promotion chasing Thomond travel to Armagh in the knowledge that an away win could prove vital for their title ambitions.
All games are scheduled to kick off at 2.30pm, but please check your club’s site for more information closer to kick off.
