WE HAVE well and truly reached the business end of the Ulster Bank All Ireland league. With less than a handful of games remaining, all Limerick clubs have either something to play for or they are going to have a large hand in who goes up, down and collects the silverware.
In Division 1A this weekend, Garryowen continue their march to survival with a home tie against Clontarf. The Dublin outfit, currently in second, will be vying for all five points, but Garryowen know now that second from bottom and a playoff place is in their reach.
The side currently in that spot, Ballinahinch, will be welcoming Young Munster to the North this weekend. John Staunton’s men, should they win, could very well give a massive helping hand to his former club Garryowen.
In Division 1B, UL Bohemians, winners late on last weekend against Shannon, will be looking to stay in the hunt for second spot as they travel to Corinthians on Saturday afternoon. Colm Tucker’s men are currently five points behind the westerners, level on points with Buccaneers. A loss this weekend for the Robins and the dream of a return to 1A will be all but over.
Shannon, currently in fifth spot, know that last weekend’s loss in Annacotty has condemned them to 1B for another year. They face leaders Terenure this Saturday 22.
In Division 2A, Bruff are relegated to Division 2B with only two games remaining while Old Crescent, under the guidance of Eugene McGovern and Keith Matthews are loooking more and more likely to join Bruff next season as they struggle in 15th spot. The OC entertain Cashel this weekend in a must-win game for the Rosbrien outfit.
In 2B, Thonond host Midleton at Fitzgerald Park knowing that win could get them into second outright. The blue and whites are currently joint second with Skerries and Greystones in what is a going to be a battle royal for promotion spots.
In keeping with the trend of Limerick clubs helping eachother out this weekend, Richmond take on the aforementioned Skerries. A win for the green and whites is on.
by Justin Brady
sport@limerickpost.ie
