Here is a run down of all the club rugby taking place across the Province this weekend.
As we approach the latter stages of the Ulster Bank All Ireland League and the Kukri Ulster Rugby Championship we are all gripped by the different contests involving teams competing for league titles and those teams fighting to avoid relegation.
In the Ulster Bank All Ireland League Ballynahinch have moved up to 3rd place in Div 1B with Ballymena sitting mid table in 6th place.
In Div 2A Malone remain level at the top with Munster sides Highfield and Nenagh Ormond with crucial games coming up for Banbridge and Queens to maintain their top four ambitions. Belfast Harlequins remain bottom in 10th place.
In Div 2B Armagh are still top despite back to back defeats. Dungannon are in 6th place with City of Derry moving up to 9th place on the back of three wins.
In Div 2C Rainey OB are 2nd one point behind leaders Navan RFC with Bangor in 6th place.
In the Kukri Ulster Rugby Championship Div 1 Instonians, Omagh and Ballyclare are still only separated by three points with five games remaining. Portadown are still favourites to finish in 4th place. We have five teams separated by nine points in 5th – 9th place as they battle to avoid finishing in 9th place and the playoffs.
Coleraine remain clear favourites to win Div 2 with a six point lead and a game in hand. CIYMS are in 2nd place and are being closely pursued by Grosvenor for the 2nd playoff place against the 9th place team finishing in Div 1.
PSNI are top of Div 3 after Ballymoney were surprisingly defeated at Newry. The County Antrim side are one point behind the PSNI in 2nd place with two games in hand. It would appear these two teams with contest the top two places with five games remaining.
ULSTER BANK ALL IRELAND LEAGUE. (ROUND 12/18)
Played Friday 10th February 2017. Kick off 7.30PM
DIV 1A
Dublin Uni (8) v Old Belvedere (7)
UCD (5) v Lansdowne (1)
DIV 1B
Shannon (8) v UL Bohemians (2)
DIV 2B
Wanderers (4) v MU Barnhall (5)
Greystones (2) v Skerries(8). Kick off 8PM
DIV 2C
Bruff (5) v Kanturk (8)
Played Saturday 11th February. Kick off 12.30PM/4.30PM
DIV 1A
Clontarf (4) v Cork Constitution (3)
St Mary’s College (9) v Garryowen (6)
Young Munster (2) v Terenure College (10)
DIV 1B
Ballymena (6) v Galwegians (9). Kick off 12.30PM
UCC (7) v Ballynahinch (3). Kick off 12.30PM
Buccaneers (1) v Old Wesley (5)
Naas (4) v Dolphin (10)
Ballymena v Galwegians
One draw and two defeats from their last three UBL games are not the results Ballymena Head coach Andy Graham was hoping for with six games remaining. The Eaton Park side have slipped out of the top four placings into 6th place five points behind 4th place Naas. Ballynahinch were deserved 24 – 12 winners at Eaton Park last Friday night. These are two crucial games coming up for the Ballymena squad against Galwegians at home and Old Wesley away on Saturday week before we enter the next block of UBL fixtures in March. When these two sides met on the 12.11.16 Ballymena had to dig deep in Galway to win 35 – 34.
For Ballymena Head coach Andy Graham three points from their last three UBL games is not the return he was expecting. In their last two games against Buccanneers and Ballynahinch they started slowly and went behind 13 – 0 and 10 – 0 respectively. He felt there was more desire in the Ballynahinch team with his side flat in the opening 60 minutes. The introduction of Glenn Baillie got the team going with more shape to their play in the final 20 minutes. Ballynahinch had adapted better to the conditions with Ballymena not getting over the gain line. He felt his team were moving the ball but that accuracy was not there with the pack failing to dominate in the set piece.
He feels it is up to the Ballymena team to start winning games and get their shape right.
The unavailability of Ulster players will see several changes made to the starting xv for the game with Galwegians at home this week. Only Mark Best and Adam McBurney have been released. No decision has been made on the release of Brett Herron. Injury rules out Mattie Rea, Stephen Mulholland, Callum Patterson, Ross Kane, Michael Lagan and Conal Boomer. David Shanahan, Alan O’Connor, Ricky Lutton, Kieran Treadwell and John Andrews have not been released. Other players unavailable this weekend include James Taggart, Mark Foster, and James Gallagher.
Ballymena squad 1 – 20 Bryan Young, Adam McBurney, Chris Cundell, David Whann, Russell Blair, Conor Smyth, Tony McGuinness, Aidy Hamilton, John Creighton, Richie McMaster, Jonny Rossborough, Marty Irwin (capt), Mark Best, James Beattie, Rodger McBurney, Adrian Kirkpatrick, Andrew Cundell, Joe Thompson, Glenn Baillie and Jordan Foster.
The coach is of the view that this match provides opportunities for the club players he has a lot of faith in and who train two nights per week to stake a claim for a starting place with Russell Blair and Aidy Hamilton being given the opportunity this week. All his team need to do is go through the phases and score tries. If they keep their shape and get that bit of luck you need they can win the match against Galwegians.
Galwegians are a very good team with a strong pack. They move the ball well with the backs strong in the outside channels.
Ballynahinch v UCC
There was an air of despondency around Ballymacarn Park on the back of several UBL results in October and November. Three back to back wins in December and January have propelled Ballynahinch into 3rd place on the back of surprising defeats for UL Bohemians and Old Wesley at the weekend. Again the next two matches against UCC and home to Galwegians can help Derek Suffern and his players consolidate their top four placing. When these two teams met at Ballymacarn Park on the 12.11.16 the students from Cork ran out 15 – 10 winners.
Lorcan Dow was injured early in the match at Ballymena and is replaced by Callum Irvine. Peter Nelson is likely to be replaced by Justin Rea at full back. James McBriar is unavailable this week with the bench replacements to be confirmed on Thursday night.
DIV 2A
Belfast Harlequins (10) v Highfield (1). Kick off 12.30PM
Blackrock College (6) v Queens Uni (4)
Cashel RFC (9) v Banbridge (5)
Corinthians (8) v Nenagh Ormond (2)
Sunday’s Well (7) v Malone (3) was brought forward to the 14.1.17 with Malone winning 37 – 5.
Belfast Harlequins v Highfield
Can Quins build on their recent UBL performances against Malone and Queens Uni to secure their second win of the season. There is a new found belief amongst the players that despite their lowly league position the Deramore Park team can make up the twelve point gap between themselves and 9th place Cashel. The Quins players and coaches will be looking to reverse the 73 – 5 defeat they suffered in Cork on the 12.11.16.
Quins Head coach Andrew Gillespie has been pleased by the attitude shown by his players since Xmas. His players face a big challenge this weekend against top of the table Highfield at Deramore Park. The coach has a couple of players unavailable this week which has meant changes to the squad that has conducted itself so well in the last couple of UBL games. This week also offers opportunities to others to impress the coach. There are also injuries to a number of players who the coach had hoped would be fit this week. He is looking for his players to maintain their consistent performances of 2017.
Queens Uni v Blackrock
The students travel to Dublin this weekend on the back of only one win from their last three UBL games. Their cause has not been helped by the unavailability of players released to play in the British & Irish Cup for Ulster A and the Ireland Under 20 Six Nations programme. When these two teams met at the Dub, Queens were 27 – 15 winners.
Queens Head coach Bob Young and his players are very much aware of the importance of these next two games in UBL. Blackrock at home will be very strong on Saturday. His squad will be similar to the team that defeated Belfast Harlequins 25 – 24. Captain Alex Thompson returns after illness ruled him out of the Quins match. Out half Jack Milligan faces a late fitness test with Conor McKee on the injury list. Jonny Stewart, Rory Butler and Marcus Rea are involved with the Ireland under 20 team.
Josh Jordan, Conor Kelly, Rob Lyttle and Ali Wright are on the injured list with centre Paddy Farrell unavailable to March due to medical exams.
Zimbabwean Angus Curtis impressed for the seconds against Instonians last week with Rory Bell getting a run out after being out injured.
Banbridge v Cashel RFC
On the back of three consecutive defeats Banbridge travel to play another Munster team fighting for league points to retain their place in Div 2A next season followed by a home game against Nenagh Ormond next week. Head coach Daniel Soper and his players need to start picking up league points to finish in the top four. When these two sides met at Rifle Park on the 12 .11.16 Banbridge ran out narrow 7 – 5 winners.
Banbridge Head coach Daniel Soper is hoping his players can repeat their winning performance last season at Cashel this weekend. It will require a massive effort and will require something similar again. He recognises that Cashel are an excellent side and always present a big challenge for his players. The coach picks the same 20 players from our previous game against Galway Corinthians.
On the back of three defeats the coaches and players having been working hard over the last two weeks to improve the team’s performance.
DIV 2B
City of Derry (9) v Old Crescent (3). Kick off 12.30PM
Thomond (10) v Armagh (1). Kick off 12.30PM
Bective (7) v Dungannon (6)
City of Derry v Old Crescent
This will be another testing fixture for Player coach Richard McCarter and his City of Derry players. On the 26th November Derry were sitting bottom of the league in 10th place on three points. Three back to back wins have the North West side sitting in 9th place on 15 points, four points behind 8th place Skerries. Can the Derry players pick up more valuable league points in their next two home games against Old Crescen and Bective at Judges Road next week. When these two teams met in Limerick on the 12.11.16 Old Crescent ran out comfortable 59 – 0 winners.
City of Derry player coach Richard McCarter felt his team came through a tough away win at Dungannon two weeks ago. He was delighted with the result and the attitude of the players. He is aware that the team face two big games at home but again feels that the players can do well. It will take another couple of huge efforts from everyone.
He has no major injury concerns and is expecting to field the same team that played against Dungannon.
Armagh v Old Crescent
This is the first of back-to-back games for Armagh in Limerick. This week they travel to play bottom side Thomond followed by a return visit on Saturday week to play inform Old Crescent. After losing their last two games against Wanderers and Greystones, Armagh find their lead in Div 2A cut to one point ahead of 2nd place Greystones. When these two sides met at the Palace Grounds on the 12.11.16 Armagh ran out convincing 71 – 0.
Armagh Head coach Alex McCloy has several late selection calls to make with a number of players including Matthew Steenson, Johnny Pollock, Peter Elliott, Andrew Morton and Paul Mullan impressing for the seconds over the last couple of weeks.
Dungannon v Bective
Another Ulster side facing crucial back-to-back games in the coming weeks against Bective and Wanderers. Dungannon have lost 5/6 UBL matches and they drew with Bective 10 – 10 at Stevenson Park when these two sides met on the 12.11.16.
Head coach Andy Hughes has faith in his players that they have the ability to turn things around. The challenge to his players is are they mentally strong enough to do so. It is going to be an interesting end to the season for his players. He feels if his team go on a bit of a run they will be fighting for a top four place. If they don’t they will be fighting to stay clear of the bottom two places.
For this week Paul Armstrong, will be available with Jonny Toal, Ross McCaughey, Karl Egan and Steven Sinnamon all unavailable. The coach is of the opinion that his team are in as good a position as they have been for a while.
DIV 2C
Midleton (7) v Sligo (3). Kick off 12.30PM
Rainey OB (2) v Tullamore (4)
Seapoint (9) v Bangor (6)
Rainey OB v Tullamore
Four wins from five have Rainey OB sitting one point behind league leaders Navan RFC. These are two crucial games coming up for Head coach John Andrew’s and his players against Tullamore at home and league leaders Navan away next week. When these two teams met on the 12.11.16 Rainey recorded a very impressive 25 – 21 win away from home.
Rainey Head coach John Andrew’s is expecting quite a few players to return this week with 26 players unavailable last Saturday. Despite the unavailability of their experienced front row of Stephen Rutledge, George Fritz and Tommy O’Hagan their replacements Aidan McSwiggan, Kieran Donaghy and Fintan Quinn have impressed in their absence.
Bangor v Seapoint
The North Down team are on a losing four match run in the UBL and urgently need to start picking up league points. They are in 6th place on 25 points, ten points ahead of 9th place Seapoint. Again the game away to Seapoint and home to Kanturk next week are must win games for the Seasiders if they are not to get caught up in a relegation battle with seven games remaining. From sitting in 4th place on the 26th November, Bangor were targeting a playoff place. Now it is all about retaining their UBL place after being promoted to Division 2C this season.
Big weekend for Bangor rugby club with the 1st, 2nd and 3rd teams playing away from home. With the lengthening injury list, it has been a case of all hands on deck to get competitive teams out. The 1st xv travel to Seapoint with the 2nds travelling to play Omagh seconds and the 3rd xv away to Banbridge.
The 1st xv have a huge game in Dublin this week and need to get a win. The team went close against Sligo and were well beaten at Bruff who are pushing for a top four finish.
Injuries continue to hamper selection with second row Craig Burton the latest player to go down with concussion at Bruff. David Bradford is returning to training and hopes to make himself available for selection in the coming weeks. His presence and leadership has been missed by the team. Mike Apsley is another player returning this week.
Bangor squad: Philip Whyte (Captain), Conor Piper, Andrew Jackson, Andrew Shaw, Glenn Burton, James Leary, James Stewart, Darren Kelly, James Henley, Evan Wellard – McMillan, Jason Morgan, Gareth Wright, Ali Lockhart, Mike Apsley, Rob Gamble, Mark Widdowson, Dave Charles, Lewis Loane, Taylor Ferguson and Adam McCusker.
ULSTER RUGBY 2ND XV LEAGUE
Ballynahinch seconds (2) v Belfast Harlequins seconds (6). Kick off 1PM
Banbridge seconds (5) v Ballymena seconds (1)
KUKRI ULSTER RUGBY CHAMPIONSHIP DIV 1. ROUND 14/18
Kick off 2.30PM.
Ards (10) v Cooke (6). Kick off 12.45PM
Ballyclare (3) v Portadown (4)
Dromore (9) v Carrickfergus (8)
Instonians (10 v Enniskillen (5)
Omagh (2) v Clogher Valley (7)
Ards v Cooke
Can Ards build on their Towns Cup win over Randalstown last week as the team seek out their first league win of the season. Cooke will be difficult opponents at Hamilton Park. They have won two, drawn one and lost three matches in their last six league games. They will be fighting for the league points with nine points separating the teams in 5th – 9th place in Div 1. When these two teams met at Shaws bridge on the 15.10.16 Cooke were 36 – 0 winners.
Ards Head coach John West was delighted with his teams win over Randalstown. It has shown the players that hard work pays off and leaves the players in a better place.
He is expecting Cooke to be a good test for his team at home on Saturday. At the present time it is all about moving forward. The squad are carrying a couple of knocks from last week with selection being finalised on Thursday night. Both John West and Scott Young are hoping to pick the same squad from last week with selection getting more difficult with the players training hard and the 2nd xv going well. He is delighted with the turnaround in the attitude, commitment and enthusiasm being shown by the players since Xmas. Can Ards secure their first league win this season.
Cooke Head coach Colin Atkinson still has a number of late selection calls to make before he finalises his team for Saturday. Second row Andrew Quigley is unavailable and will be replaced by Scott McClelland. Alan Gourlay returns to the squad after following concussion return to play protocols.
Ballyclare v Portadown
This is the third meeting between these two sides this season. Portadown won the first league encounter at Chambers Park 23 – 15 on the 8.10.16. These two teams also met at the same venue in the Towns Cup last Sat with Ballyclare winning 25 – 21. Portadown have won 2/4 league games with Ballyclare undefeated in their last five league games. In Robert Smith Ballyclare have a consistent goal kicker who punished indiscipline in the Portadown team last week, kicking six penalties and one conversion to contribute 20 of this teams 25 points. The Cloughan team are the outsiders in the race for the Div 1 title with Instonians and Omagh. This was a season that promised so much for Portadown Head coach Richard Hedley and his players. They are in 4th place and will be looking to secure a place in the All Ireland Junior Cup next season.
Ballyclare Head coach Mike McKeever agrees that Portadown are a team well coached by Richard Hedley. He enjoyed his teams 25 – 21 win at Portadown last week in the Towns Cup that was played in good spirit. He is also aware that his players will need to be very focused if they are to repeat last weeks win at Portadown.
Mike McKeever believes it will be a close finish to the league but he is of the opinion that the title race is between Omagh and Instonians. Both these teams have to play each other with Omagh having a game in hand. He believes Instonians will come out on top with the experienced William Leacock having the experience of winning the league title.
He is expecting his team to be along similar lines to the team that won at Portadown.
Portadown Head coach Richard Hedley was disappointed with the discipline of his players in the first half last week against Ballyclare. Needless penalties left his team with too much to do in the second half against a good Ballyclare team.
This week he has a number of players unavailable including Gareth McCoy, Mal Allister, James Wright, Ryan Muldrew and Tom Ceasar who are replaced by Matthew Thorton, Robert Greenlee, Johnny McClure, Robert McClean and Luke Ashton replacing them.
Dromore v Carrickfergus
This is one of those games neither of these teams can afford to lose this weekend. Dromore have lost 5/7 league games and drew 19 – 19 with Cooke in a crucial game two weeks ago. Unfortunately for Dromore they went down to their third defeat this season to neighbours Ballynahinch seconds 42 – 11 in the Towns Cup last week with their opponents this weekend Carrickfergus winning 27 – 19 at home to Randalstown. Dromore last won a league game at home on the 17.12.16 when they defeated Omagh 21 – 15. They have slipped down into 9th place and the playoffs. Carrickfergus recorded an impressive 29 – 0 league win at home two weeks a go against Enniskillen to end a losing run. The positives for the Carrick coaches Davy Scott and Michael Rainey is that the team have scored nine tries in their last two wins. When these two teams met at the Tom Simms Memorial playing fields on the 15.10.16 Carrick won 26 – 10.
Head coach Jonny Cullen is very much aware of the importance of this match for his Dromore team against Carrickfergus on Saturday. His side can’t afford to lose any more points on Cooke, Carrick and Clogher Valley. He retains the squad that played against Ballynahinch seconds in the Towns Cup.
Carrick coach Davy Scott will not finalise his team selection until Thursday night. Prop Paul Greenaway and half backs Conor Cambridge and Luke Whittal along with centre Jason Wady are expected to return to the squad this week after being rested against Ballymoney.
Instonians v Enniskillen
Inst Head coach William Leacock and his players will have enjoyed the weekend off from league action as his team prepare for their final five league games. His side are unbeaten in their last eight league games. Their last defeat was at Enniskillen on the 15.10.16 when they lost 18 – 7. Enniskillen ended a five match losing run to win 27 – 6 at Dungannon in the Towns Cup last week. For a team that was challenging for the league title they have now slipped out of the top four and aware that only nine points separate the teams in 5th – 9th place. Enniskillen last won a league match at home to Ballyclare on the 17.12.16 when they won 13 – 6.
Instonians Director of Rugby William Leacock was impressed by the performance of his players in their 30 -19 win at Clogher Valley two weeks ago. The Cran is always a difficult place to go to and get a bonus point. He has been pleased with the teams two recent performances. With five games to go in the league it is extremely tight at the top. Omagh and Ballyclare would remain strong favourites with his Instonians team having to travel to play both these clubs away. It is all about taking one week at a time starting with Enniskillen on Saturday.
Rory McCurry, Harry Gallagher and Joe Fryers are still on the injured list with Matthew Kilpatrick unavailable due to work commitments. Robert and Alan Whitten along with Matthew Keane and Mike Blackwood remain key players in the team.
Enniskillen Head coach William Gibson was pleased to see his players playing some nice rugby in their 27 – 6 win at Dungannon with the backline finally showing their attacking threat after weeks of hard work at training.
Instonians are a strong team but need to win to keep the pressure on Omagh. For the Enniskillen coach the pressure this week is on Instonians to get a result on Saturday. He is looking his players to build on their win at the weekend. He is expecting his team to be similar to the side that played at Dungannon.
Omagh v Clogher Valley
Head coach Phil Marshall will have been disappointed his team were knocked out of the Towns Cup at Armagh losing 24 – 13. Like Instonians they will now be able to focus on the league title with six games remaining. Both sides have no Cup distractions which will add to the drama of the upcoming meetings involving Instonians and Ballyclare at Omagh. Clogher Valley have lost their last two league games and know like the five teams separated by nine points in 5th – 9th place that they need to continue picking up league points. They will have been boosted by their 22 – 5 win over Rainey seconds in the Towns Cup. When these two sides met at the Cran on the 8.10.16 Omagh ran out comfortable winners 50 – 12.
Omagh Head coach Phil Marshall is having to deal with an injury list that rules out five of his centres with several players having to step up from the 2nd xv. Back row forward Davy McFarland remains on the injured list with out half Neil MacLaine unavailable. He has four players carrying knocks from their lost at Armagh and is hoping they come through fitness tests on Thursday night. He is expecting to welcome back key forwards James Catterson, Mervyn Edgar, Richard Hemphill and full back Alistair Beckett for the visit of Clogher Valley.
The Omagh coach is expecting a bruising encounter with Clogher Valley this week. They have improved a lot since the two teams last met. A win for his team will set up his players for the visit of Instonians next week.
Clogher Valley are aware they face a difficult finish to their season with their final three games against teams fighting to avoid finishing in 9th place and the playoffs. They will field their strongest team this season and welcome back forwards Michael Treanor, Eugene McKenna and Matty Robinson with PC Falconer and Andy Breen taking their place in the backs. It is a huge game for Clogher as they seek to pick up league points and avenge their heavy defeat at home by Omagh earlier in the season.
Mark Ellis comes in to take his place on the bench with Tom Mills missing out after two man of the match performances against Rainey and Instonians. Second row Jonny Trimble is on the injured list with Ian Mulligan unavailable this week.
KUKRI ULSTER RUGBY CHAMPIONSHIP DIV 2. ROUND 13/18
Kick off 2.30PM.
Coleraine (10 v Larne (6)
Donaghadee (10) v UUC (9)
Grosvenor (30 v Academy (4)
Lisburn (8) v Limavady (5)
Randalstown (7) v CIYMS (2)
Coleraine v Larne
With no Cup distractions Coleraine will be able to focus on their remaining seven league games. They have a six point advantage over 2nd place CIYMS with a game in hand. Their outstanding fixture against Randalstown has been rearranged for the 25th March. Their league game with UUC has been brought forward to the 25th February from the 1st April. Head coach Richard Boyd will have welcomed the weekend off for his players.
Larne Head coach Laurence Kelly will have been disappointed to see his team defeated 12 – 10 by Bangor seconds in the Towns Cup last week. They had been on a good league run winning 3/4 games. When these two sides met at the Glynn on the 19.11.16, Coleraine ran out comfortable winners by 70 – 0.
Coleraine Head coach Richard Boyd and his squad are looking forward to the game against Larne after having a rest week for the full senior squad. The players have a block of four games in a row and it is important we kick off February on a positive note with a home win and a good performance.
His team are expecting a tough encounter against Larne this weekend who have shown good form in recent weeks against Limavady and a close encounter against Bangor in the Towns Cup. The result in November against Larne counts for very little with his Coleraine preparing to face a very different team this weekend.
The coach is able to pick from a full squad this week with a number of players returning to training on Tuesday. In the pack hooker David Greatorex and back rower Brian Hughes return to the starting xv and in the backs Captain Mikey Poskitt returns in the centre. Flanker roger Bonnar is rested this weekend and winger Niall Irwin returns to action with the 2nd xv to gain some valuable game time.
Larne Head coach Laurence Kelly loses out half Aaron McBride after he dislocated his shoulder early in the match at Bangor last week and played on. Second row Ryan Wilson was another casualty from last week and is also ruled out. The coach is looking for an improved performance from his players against a good Coleraine team.
Donaghadee v UUC
The sudden passing of former Club Chairman David Monson last Sunday will have shocked the rugby community in Donaghadee and the wider rugby family. David had been a stalwart of the club for several decades through his unselfish work. We offer our sympathy to his wife Ann, Sons Kevin and Andy and daughter Jude. He presence will be missed on the touchlines at Donaldson Park.
It has been a difficult season for the club with the departure of players weakening their small playing squad. Under coaches Paul Blewitt and Chris Good the aim of the club has been to see the 1st xv complete all their fixtures. Despite not recording a win this season we have to admire the commitment of coaches, players and officials in their efforts to turn around and sustain the future of this proud club.
UUC have experienced the step up in opposition after securing promotion this season from Div 3. In their efforts to stay in Div 2 they are involved in a battle with Lisburn to avoid finishing in 9th place and the playoffs. When these two sides met on the North coast on the 22.10.16 the students ran out 36 – 0 winners.
Donaghadee Head coach Paul Blewitt was shocked by the passing of club stalwart David Monson. For the match at the weekend Captain Dan Lindsay joins Phil Collins in the front row. Jack Matthews and Ozzy Gordon continue in the second row with Matty Martin and Matthew Johnston in the back row with Robbie Ingham returning at scrum half.
UUC Director of Rugby Brett Campbell agreed his team were beaten by a better Grosvenor team two weeks ago. His players missed their first up tackles that allowed Grosvenor to come on to the ball with pace and power. They were deserved winners.
The goal for the students is to continue to keep the pressure on Lisburn to avoid finishing in 9th place. UUC players won’t underestimate travelling to Donaghadee on Saturday. The coaches are expecting to pick from a similar squad although they have two players away skiing in Lewis McCrabbe and Mitch Lucas. Centre H Maxwell returns with Calvin Galbraith coming into the second row along with the impressive Gary Burke. The Mullingar student has been one of the stand out performers for the students this season. The coaches are pleased with the progress that seven of the first year students have made in becoming regulars in the 1st xv this season. With the good structures in place at the University it will ensure these students are not lost to the club game. It also presents a good option for players to play at the University rather than their clubs during their years in University.
Grosvenor v Academy
The Gibson Park team have won 3/3 league games in 2017 to remain only four points behind second place CIYMS in the contest for the playoff place. After a slow start to their season under new Head coach Robert Ford Grosvenor have only lost 1/7 league games.
Academy were at one stage challenging for 2nd place. With only 1/3 wins in 2017 coach Gareth Lynn will be hoping his players recover from letting slip a 30 – 7 lead against Lisburn to lose 32 – 30 two weeks ago. When these two sides met at Roughfort on the 22.10.16 Academy were 29 – 23 winners.
Grosvenor Head coach Robert Ford faces several selection decisions with a number of his 1st xv players unavailable. It will be a test of squad depth with players unavailable due to work, injury and holidays. He is looking a win to keep the team’s momentum going forward.
Academy team 1 – 17 Jonny Allen, Lee Moody, Adam Martin, Stuart Henderson, Graeme Dobbin, Richard Henderson, Matt Corkery, Stewart Martin, David Kenny, Jordan Buchanan, Gavin Braiden, Chris Cooper, Steven Fawcett, Ben Cave, Simon Beattie, Troy Wilson. u/k.
Lisburn v Limavady
Changes in the coaching staff at Lisburn have had an impact with Lisburn winning 3/4 league games to move ahead of 9th place UUC and open up a ten point advantage. Limavady on the other hand were challenging for 2nd place after securing promotion this season from Div 3. They have only won 1/5 league games and have slipped down to 5th place. Head coach Mark Nicholl will want his young playing squad to end this losing run and put in a strong finish to their season. Lisburn showed they turned the corner by coming back from 30 – 7 down at Academy to win 32 – 30. They will also be looking to reverse their heavy 66 – 0 defeat at Limavady on the 22.10.16.
Lisburn Head coach Andy Postlethwaite believes his players give their opponents too much respect at times due to previous results. He is hoping the team back up their win at Academy with another win over Limavady this weekend. Team selection will be finalised at training on Thursday night.
Randalstown v CIYMS
Head coach Gary Longwell will have been disappointed to see his Randalstown team lose 21 – 18 at Ards after extra time in the Towns Cup. With only 1/3 league wins in 2017 he again will be looking a strong finish from his team to their season. CIYMS like Randalstown have only won 1/3 league games in 2017 as they look to shake off the challenge of Grosvenor for 2nd place and the play offs. When these two teams met at Belmont on the 26.11.16 CIYMS had to work hard for their narrow 7 – 3 win.
For Randalstown Head coach Gary Longwell it has been a frustrating season, but the club remains in a strong position with an excellent youth structure in place. He is expecting his young 1st xv playing squad to continue to improve over the next few years.
CIYMS Head coach Gareth Fry is hoping to field his strongest side against Randalstown with centre Callum Irvine undergoing a late fitness test. Final selection will be confirmed on Thursday night.
KUKRI ULSTER RUGBY CHAMPIONSHIP DIV 3. (ROUND 18/22)
Kick off 2.30PM.
BHSFP (9 ) v PSNI (1)
Ballymoney (2) v Cavan (10)
Holywood (7) v Virginia (6)
Monaghan (11) v Newry (5)
Ophir (12) v Lurgan (3)
Strabane (4) v Letterkenny (8)
As we approach the latter stages of the Ulster Bank All Ireland League and the Kukri Ulster Rugby Championship we are all gripped by the different contests involving teams competing for league titles and those teams fighting to avoid relegation.
In the Ulster Bank All Ireland League Ballynahinch have moved up to 3rd place in Div 1B with Ballymena sitting mid table in 6th place.
In Div 2A Malone remain level at the top with Munster sides Highfield and Nenagh Ormond with crucial games coming up for Banbridge and Queens to maintain their top four ambitions. Belfast Harlequins remain bottom in 10th place.
In Div 2B Armagh are still top despite back to back defeats. Dungannon are in 6th place with City of Derry moving up to 9th place on the back of three wins.
In Div 2C Rainey OB are 2nd one point behind leaders Navan RFC with Bangor in 6th place.
In the Kukri Ulster Rugby Championship Div 1 Instonians, Omagh and Ballyclare are still only separated by three points with five games remaining. Portadown are still favourites to finish in 4th place. We have five teams separated by nine points in 5th – 9th place as they battle to avoid finishing in 9th place and the playoffs.
Coleraine remain clear favourites to win Div 2 with a six point lead and a game in hand. CIYMS are in 2nd place and are being closely pursued by Grosvenor for the 2nd playoff place against the 9th place team finishing in Div 1.
PSNI are top of Div 3 after Ballymoney were surprisingly defeated at Newry. The County Antrim side are one point behind the PSNI in 2nd place with two games in hand. It would appear these two teams with contest the top two places with five games remaining.
ULSTER BANK ALL IRELAND LEAGUE. (ROUND 12/18)
Played Friday 10th February 2017. Kick off 7.30PM
DIV 1A
Dublin Uni (8) v Old Belvedere (7)
UCD (5) v Lansdowne (1)
DIV 1B
Shannon (8) v UL Bohemians (2)
DIV 2B
Wanderers (4) v MU Barnhall (5)
Greystones (2) v Skerries(8). Kick off 8PM
DIV 2C
Bruff (5) v Kanturk (8)
Played Saturday 11th February. Kick off 12.30PM/4.30PM
DIV 1A
Clontarf (4) v Cork Constitution (3)
St Mary’s College (9) v Garryowen (6)
Young Munster (2) v Terenure College (10)
DIV 1B
Ballymena (6) v Galwegians (9). Kick off 12.30PM
UCC (7) v Ballynahinch (3). Kick off 12.30PM
Buccaneers (1) v Old Wesley (5)
Naas (4) v Dolphin (10)
Ballymena v Galwegians
One draw and two defeats from their last three UBL games are not the results Ballymena Head coach Andy Graham was hoping for with six games remaining. The Eaton Park side have slipped out of the top four placings into 6th place five points behind 4th place Naas. Ballynahinch were deserved 24 – 12 winners at Eaton Park last Friday night. These are two crucial games coming up for the Ballymena squad against Galwegians at home and Old Wesley away on Saturday week before we enter the next block of UBL fixtures in March. When these two sides met on the 12.11.16 Ballymena had to dig deep in Galway to win 35 – 34.
For Ballymena Head coach Andy Graham three points from their last three UBL games is not the return he was expecting. In their last two games against Buccanneers and Ballynahinch they started slowly and went behind 13 – 0 and 10 – 0 respectively. He felt there was more desire in the Ballynahinch team with his side flat in the opening 60 minutes. The introduction of Glenn Baillie got the team going with more shape to their play in the final 20 minutes. Ballynahinch had adapted better to the conditions with Ballymena not getting over the gain line. He felt his team were moving the ball but that accuracy was not there with the pack failing to dominate in the set piece.
He feels it is up to the Ballymena team to start winning games and get their shape right.
The unavailability of Ulster players will see several changes made to the starting xv for the game with Galwegians at home this week. Only Mark Best and Adam McBurney have been released. No decision has been made on the release of Brett Herron. Injury rules out Mattie Rea, Stephen Mulholland, Callum Patterson, Ross Kane, Michael Lagan and Conal Boomer. David Shanahan, Alan O’Connor, Ricky Lutton, Kieran Treadwell and John Andrews have not been released. Other players unavailable this weekend include James Taggart, Mark Foster, and James Gallagher.
Ballymena squad 1 – 20 Bryan Young, Adam McBurney, Chris Cundell, David Whann, Russell Blair, Conor Smyth, Tony McGuinness, Aidy Hamilton, John Creighton, Richie McMaster, Jonny Rossborough, Marty Irwin (capt), Mark Best, James Beattie, Rodger McBurney, Adrian Kirkpatrick, Andrew Cundell, Joe Thompson, Glenn Baillie and Jordan Foster.
The coach is of the view that this match provides opportunities for the club players he has a lot of faith in and who train two nights per week to stake a claim for a starting place with Russell Blair and Aidy Hamilton being given the opportunity this week. All his team need to do is go through the phases and score tries. If they keep their shape and get that bit of luck you need they can win the match against Galwegians.
Galwegians are a very good team with a strong pack. They move the ball well with the backs strong in the outside channels.
Ballynahinch v UCC
There was an air of despondency around Ballymacarn Park on the back of several UBL results in October and November. Three back to back wins in December and January have propelled Ballynahinch into 3rd place on the back of surprising defeats for UL Bohemians and Old Wesley at the weekend. Again the next two matches against UCC and home to Galwegians can help Derek Suffern and his players consolidate their top four placing. When these two teams met at Ballymacarn Park on the 12.11.16 the students from Cork ran out 15 – 10 winners.
Lorcan Dow was injured early in the match at Ballymena and is replaced by Callum Irvine. Peter Nelson is likely to be replaced by Justin Rea at full back. James McBriar is unavailable this week with the bench replacements to be confirmed on Thursday night.
DIV 2A
Belfast Harlequins (10) v Highfield (1). Kick off 12.30PM
Blackrock College (6) v Queens Uni (4)
Cashel RFC (9) v Banbridge (5)
Corinthians (8) v Nenagh Ormond (2)
Sunday’s Well (7) v Malone (3) was brought forward to the 14.1.17 with Malone winning 37 – 5.
Belfast Harlequins v Highfield
Can Quins build on their recent UBL performances against Malone and Queens Uni to secure their second win of the season. There is a new found belief amongst the players that despite their lowly league position the Deramore Park team can make up the twelve point gap between themselves and 9th place Cashel. The Quins players and coaches will be looking to reverse the 73 – 5 defeat they suffered in Cork on the 12.11.16.
Quins Head coach Andrew Gillespie has been pleased by the attitude shown by his players since Xmas. His players face a big challenge this weekend against top of the table Highfield at Deramore Park. The coach has a couple of players unavailable this week which has meant changes to the squad that has conducted itself so well in the last couple of UBL games. This week also offers opportunities to others to impress the coach. There are also injuries to a number of players who the coach had hoped would be fit this week. He is looking for his players to maintain their consistent performances of 2017.
Queens Uni v Blackrock
The students travel to Dublin this weekend on the back of only one win from their last three UBL games. Their cause has not been helped by the unavailability of players released to play in the British & Irish Cup for Ulster A and the Ireland Under 20 Six Nations programme. When these two teams met at the Dub, Queens were 27 – 15 winners.
Queens Head coach Bob Young and his players are very much aware of the importance of these next two games in UBL. Blackrock at home will be very strong on Saturday. His squad will be similar to the team that defeated Belfast Harlequins 25 – 24. Captain Alex Thompson returns after illness ruled him out of the Quins match. Out half Jack Milligan faces a late fitness test with Conor McKee on the injury list. Jonny Stewart, Rory Butler and Marcus Rea are involved with the Ireland under 20 team.
Josh Jordan, Conor Kelly, Rob Lyttle and Ali Wright are on the injured list with centre Paddy Farrell unavailable to March due to medical exams.
Zimbabwean Angus Curtis impressed for the seconds against Instonians last week with Rory Bell getting a run out after being out injured.
Banbridge v Cashel RFC
On the back of three consecutive defeats Banbridge travel to play another Munster team fighting for league points to retain their place in Div 2A next season followed by a home game against Nenagh Ormond next week. Head coach Daniel Soper and his players need to start picking up league points to finish in the top four. When these two sides met at Rifle Park on the 12 .11.16 Banbridge ran out narrow 7 – 5 winners.
Banbridge Head coach Daniel Soper is hoping his players can repeat their winning performance last season at Cashel this weekend. It will require a massive effort and will require something similar again. He recognises that Cashel are an excellent side and always present a big challenge for his players. The coach picks the same 20 players from our previous game against Galway Corinthians.
On the back of three defeats the coaches and players having been working hard over the last two weeks to improve the team’s performance.
DIV 2B
City of Derry (9) v Old Crescent (3). Kick off 12.30PM
Thomond (10) v Armagh (1). Kick off 12.30PM
Bective (7) v Dungannon (6)
City of Derry v Old Crescent
This will be another testing fixture for Player coach Richard McCarter and his City of Derry players. On the 26th November Derry were sitting bottom of the league in 10th place on three points. Three back to back wins have the North West side sitting in 9th place on 15 points, four points behind 8th place Skerries. Can the Derry players pick up more valuable league points in their next two home games against Old Crescen and Bective at Judges Road next week. When these two teams met in Limerick on the 12.11.16 Old Crescent ran out comfortable 59 – 0 winners.
City of Derry player coach Richard McCarter felt his team came through a tough away win at Dungannon two weeks ago. He was delighted with the result and the attitude of the players. He is aware that the team face two big games at home but again feels that the players can do well. It will take another couple of huge efforts from everyone.
He has no major injury concerns and is expecting to field the same team that played against Dungannon.
Armagh v Old Crescent
This is the first of back-to-back games for Armagh in Limerick. This week they travel to play bottom side Thomond followed by a return visit on Saturday week to play inform Old Crescent. After losing their last two games against Wanderers and Greystones, Armagh find their lead in Div 2A cut to one point ahead of 2nd place Greystones. When these two sides met at the Palace Grounds on the 12.11.16 Armagh ran out convincing 71 – 0.
Armagh Head coach Alex McCloy has several late selection calls to make with a number of players including Matthew Steenson, Johnny Pollock, Peter Elliott, Andrew Morton and Paul Mullan impressing for the seconds over the last couple of weeks.
Dungannon v Bective
Another Ulster side facing crucial back-to-back games in the coming weeks against Bective and Wanderers. Dungannon have lost 5/6 UBL matches and they drew with Bective 10 – 10 at Stevenson Park when these two sides met on the 12.11.16.
Head coach Andy Hughes has faith in his players that they have the ability to turn things around. The challenge to his players is are they mentally strong enough to do so. It is going to be an interesting end to the season for his players. He feels if his team go on a bit of a run they will be fighting for a top four place. If they don’t they will be fighting to stay clear of the bottom two places.
For this week Paul Armstrong, will be available with Jonny Toal, Ross McCaughey, Karl Egan and Steven Sinnamon all unavailable. The coach is of the opinion that his team are in as good a position as they have been for a while.
DIV 2C
Midleton (7) v Sligo (3). Kick off 12.30PM
Rainey OB (2) v Tullamore (4)
Seapoint (9) v Bangor (6)
Rainey OB v Tullamore
Four wins from five have Rainey OB sitting one point behind league leaders Navan RFC. These are two crucial games coming up for Head coach John Andrew’s and his players against Tullamore at home and league leaders Navan away next week. When these two teams met on the 12.11.16 Rainey recorded a very impressive 25 – 21 win away from home.
Rainey Head coach John Andrew’s is expecting quite a few players to return this week with 26 players unavailable last Saturday. Despite the unavailability of their experienced front row of Stephen Rutledge, George Fritz and Tommy O’Hagan their replacements Aidan McSwiggan, Kieran Donaghy and Fintan Quinn have impressed in their absence.
Bangor v Seapoint
The North Down team are on a losing four match run in the UBL and urgently need to start picking up league points. They are in 6th place on 25 points, ten points ahead of 9th place Seapoint. Again the game away to Seapoint and home to Kanturk next week are must win games for the Seasiders if they are not to get caught up in a relegation battle with seven games remaining. From sitting in 4th place on the 26th November, Bangor were targeting a playoff place. Now it is all about retaining their UBL place after being promoted to Division 2C this season.
Big weekend for Bangor rugby club with the 1st, 2nd and 3rd teams playing away from home. With the lengthening injury list, it has been a case of all hands on deck to get competitive teams out. The 1st xv travel to Seapoint with the 2nds travelling to play Omagh seconds and the 3rd xv away to Banbridge.
The 1st xv have a huge game in Dublin this week and need to get a win. The team went close against Sligo and were well beaten at Bruff who are pushing for a top four finish.
Injuries continue to hamper selection with second row Craig Burton the latest player to go down with concussion at Bruff. David Bradford is returning to training and hopes to make himself available for selection in the coming weeks. His presence and leadership has been missed by the team. Mike Apsley is another player returning this week.
Bangor squad: Philip Whyte (Captain), Conor Piper, Andrew Jackson, Andrew Shaw, Glenn Burton, James Leary, James Stewart, Darren Kelly, James Henley, Evan Wellard – McMillan, Jason Morgan, Gareth Wright, Ali Lockhart, Mike Apsley, Rob Gamble, Mark Widdowson, Dave Charles, Lewis Loane, Taylor Ferguson and Adam McCusker.
ULSTER RUGBY 2ND XV LEAGUE
Ballynahinch seconds (2) v Belfast Harlequins seconds (6). Kick off 1PM
Banbridge seconds (5) v Ballymena seconds (1)
KUKRI ULSTER RUGBY CHAMPIONSHIP DIV 1. ROUND 14/18
Kick off 2.30PM.
Ards (10) v Cooke (6). Kick off 12.45PM
Ballyclare (3) v Portadown (4)
Dromore (9) v Carrickfergus (8)
Instonians (10 v Enniskillen (5)
Omagh (2) v Clogher Valley (7)
Ards v Cooke
Can Ards build on their Towns Cup win over Randalstown last week as the team seek out their first league win of the season. Cooke will be difficult opponents at Hamilton Park. They have won two, drawn one and lost three matches in their last six league games. They will be fighting for the league points with nine points separating the teams in 5th – 9th place in Div 1. When these two teams met at Shaws bridge on the 15.10.16 Cooke were 36 – 0 winners.
Ards Head coach John West was delighted with his teams win over Randalstown. It has shown the players that hard work pays off and leaves the players in a better place.
He is expecting Cooke to be a good test for his team at home on Saturday. At the present time it is all about moving forward. The squad are carrying a couple of knocks from last week with selection being finalised on Thursday night. Both John West and Scott Young are hoping to pick the same squad from last week with selection getting more difficult with the players training hard and the 2nd xv going well. He is delighted with the turnaround in the attitude, commitment and enthusiasm being shown by the players since Xmas. Can Ards secure their first league win this season.
Cooke Head coach Colin Atkinson still has a number of late selection calls to make before he finalises his team for Saturday. Second row Andrew Quigley is unavailable and will be replaced by Scott McClelland. Alan Gourlay returns to the squad after following concussion return to play protocols.
Ballyclare v Portadown
This is the third meeting between these two sides this season. Portadown won the first league encounter at Chambers Park 23 – 15 on the 8.10.16. These two teams also met at the same venue in the Towns Cup last Sat with Ballyclare winning 25 – 21. Portadown have won 2/4 league games with Ballyclare undefeated in their last five league games. In Robert Smith Ballyclare have a consistent goal kicker who punished indiscipline in the Portadown team last week, kicking six penalties and one conversion to contribute 20 of this teams 25 points. The Cloughan team are the outsiders in the race for the Div 1 title with Instonians and Omagh. This was a season that promised so much for Portadown Head coach Richard Hedley and his players. They are in 4th place and will be looking to secure a place in the All Ireland Junior Cup next season.
Ballyclare Head coach Mike McKeever agrees that Portadown are a team well coached by Richard Hedley. He enjoyed his teams 25 – 21 win at Portadown last week in the Towns Cup that was played in good spirit. He is also aware that his players will need to be very focused if they are to repeat last weeks win at Portadown.
Mike McKeever believes it will be a close finish to the league but he is of the opinion that the title race is between Omagh and Instonians. Both these teams have to play each other with Omagh having a game in hand. He believes Instonians will come out on top with the experienced William Leacock having the experience of winning the league title.
He is expecting his team to be along similar lines to the team that won at Portadown.
Portadown Head coach Richard Hedley was disappointed with the discipline of his players in the first half last week against Ballyclare. Needless penalties left his team with too much to do in the second half against a good Ballyclare team.
This week he has a number of players unavailable including Gareth McCoy, Mal Allister, James Wright, Ryan Muldrew and Tom Ceasar who are replaced by Matthew Thorton, Robert Greenlee, Johnny McClure, Robert McClean and Luke Ashton replacing them.
Dromore v Carrickfergus
This is one of those games neither of these teams can afford to lose this weekend. Dromore have lost 5/7 league games and drew 19 – 19 with Cooke in a crucial game two weeks ago. Unfortunately for Dromore they went down to their third defeat this season to neighbours Ballynahinch seconds 42 – 11 in the Towns Cup last week with their opponents this weekend Carrickfergus winning 27 – 19 at home to Randalstown. Dromore last won a league game at home on the 17.12.16 when they defeated Omagh 21 – 15. They have slipped down into 9th place and the playoffs. Carrickfergus recorded an impressive 29 – 0 league win at home two weeks a go against Enniskillen to end a losing run. The positives for the Carrick coaches Davy Scott and Michael Rainey is that the team have scored nine tries in their last two wins. When these two teams met at the Tom Simms Memorial playing fields on the 15.10.16 Carrick won 26 – 10.
Head coach Jonny Cullen is very much aware of the importance of this match for his Dromore team against Carrickfergus on Saturday. His side can’t afford to lose any more points on Cooke, Carrick and Clogher Valley. He retains the squad that played against Ballynahinch seconds in the Towns Cup.
Carrick coach Davy Scott will not finalise his team selection until Thursday night. Prop Paul Greenaway and half backs Conor Cambridge and Luke Whittal along with centre Jason Wady are expected to return to the squad this week after being rested against Ballymoney.
Instonians v Enniskillen
Inst Head coach William Leacock and his players will have enjoyed the weekend off from league action as his team prepare for their final five league games. His side are unbeaten in their last eight league games. Their last defeat was at Enniskillen on the 15.10.16 when they lost 18 – 7. Enniskillen ended a five match losing run to win 27 – 6 at Dungannon in the Towns Cup last week. For a team that was challenging for the league title they have now slipped out of the top four and aware that only nine points separate the teams in 5th – 9th place. Enniskillen last won a league match at home to Ballyclare on the 17.12.16 when they won 13 – 6.
Instonians Director of Rugby William Leacock was impressed by the performance of his players in their 30 -19 win at Clogher Valley two weeks ago. The Cran is always a difficult place to go to and get a bonus point. He has been pleased with the teams two recent performances. With five games to go in the league it is extremely tight at the top. Omagh and Ballyclare would remain strong favourites with his Instonians team having to travel to play both these clubs away. It is all about taking one week at a time starting with Enniskillen on Saturday.
Rory McCurry, Harry Gallagher and Joe Fryers are still on the injured list with Matthew Kilpatrick unavailable due to work commitments. Robert and Alan Whitten along with Matthew Keane and Mike Blackwood remain key players in the team.
Enniskillen Head coach William Gibson was pleased to see his players playing some nice rugby in their 27 – 6 win at Dungannon with the backline finally showing their attacking threat after weeks of hard work at training.
Instonians are a strong team but need to win to keep the pressure on Omagh. For the Enniskillen coach the pressure this week is on Instonians to get a result on Saturday. He is looking his players to build on their win at the weekend. He is expecting his team to be similar to the side that played at Dungannon.
Omagh v Clogher Valley
Head coach Phil Marshall will have been disappointed his team were knocked out of the Towns Cup at Armagh losing 24 – 13. Like Instonians they will now be able to focus on the league title with six games remaining. Both sides have no Cup distractions which will add to the drama of the upcoming meetings involving Instonians and Ballyclare at Omagh. Clogher Valley have lost their last two league games and know like the five teams separated by nine points in 5th – 9th place that they need to continue picking up league points. They will have been boosted by their 22 – 5 win over Rainey seconds in the Towns Cup. When these two sides met at the Cran on the 8.10.16 Omagh ran out comfortable winners 50 – 12.
Omagh Head coach Phil Marshall is having to deal with an injury list that rules out five of his centres with several players having to step up from the 2nd xv. Back row forward Davy McFarland remains on the injured list with out half Neil MacLaine unavailable. He has four players carrying knocks from their lost at Armagh and is hoping they come through fitness tests on Thursday night. He is expecting to welcome back key forwards James Catterson, Mervyn Edgar, Richard Hemphill and full back Alistair Beckett for the visit of Clogher Valley.
The Omagh coach is expecting a bruising encounter with Clogher Valley this week. They have improved a lot since the two teams last met. A win for his team will set up his players for the visit of Instonians next week.
Clogher Valley are aware they face a difficult finish to their season with their final three games against teams fighting to avoid finishing in 9th place and the playoffs. They will field their strongest team this season and welcome back forwards Michael Treanor, Eugene McKenna and Matty Robinson with PC Falconer and Andy Breen taking their place in the backs. It is a huge game for Clogher as they seek to pick up league points and avenge their heavy defeat at home by Omagh earlier in the season.
Mark Ellis comes in to take his place on the bench with Tom Mills missing out after two man of the match performances against Rainey and Instonians. Second row Jonny Trimble is on the injured list with Ian Mulligan unavailable this week.
KUKRI ULSTER RUGBY CHAMPIONSHIP DIV 2. ROUND 13/18
Kick off 2.30PM.
Coleraine (10 v Larne (6)
Donaghadee (10) v UUC (9)
Grosvenor (30 v Academy (4)
Lisburn (8) v Limavady (5)
Randalstown (7) v CIYMS (2)
Coleraine v Larne
With no Cup distractions Coleraine will be able to focus on their remaining seven league games. They have a six point advantage over 2nd place CIYMS with a game in hand. Their outstanding fixture against Randalstown has been rearranged for the 25th March. Their league game with UUC has been brought forward to the 25th February from the 1st April. Head coach Richard Boyd will have welcomed the weekend off for his players.
Larne Head coach Laurence Kelly will have been disappointed to see his team defeated 12 – 10 by Bangor seconds in the Towns Cup last week. They had been on a good league run winning 3/4 games. When these two sides met at the Glynn on the 19.11.16, Coleraine ran out comfortable winners by 70 – 0.
Coleraine Head coach Richard Boyd and his squad are looking forward to the game against Larne after having a rest week for the full senior squad. The players have a block of four games in a row and it is important we kick off February on a positive note with a home win and a good performance.
His team are expecting a tough encounter against Larne this weekend who have shown good form in recent weeks against Limavady and a close encounter against Bangor in the Towns Cup. The result in November against Larne counts for very little with his Coleraine preparing to face a very different team this weekend.
The coach is able to pick from a full squad this week with a number of players returning to training on Tuesday. In the pack hooker David Greatorex and back rower Brian Hughes return to the starting xv and in the backs Captain Mikey Poskitt returns in the centre. Flanker roger Bonnar is rested this weekend and winger Niall Irwin returns to action with the 2nd xv to gain some valuable game time.
Larne Head coach Laurence Kelly loses out half Aaron McBride after he dislocated his shoulder early in the match at Bangor last week and played on. Second row Ryan Wilson was another casualty from last week and is also ruled out. The coach is looking for an improved performance from his players against a good Coleraine team.
Donaghadee v UUC
The sudden passing of former Club Chairman David Monson last Sunday will have shocked the rugby community in Donaghadee and the wider rugby family. David had been a stalwart of the club for several decades through his unselfish work. We offer our sympathy to his wife Ann, Sons Kevin and Andy and daughter Jude. He presence will be missed on the touchlines at Donaldson Park.
It has been a difficult season for the club with the departure of players weakening their small playing squad. Under coaches Paul Blewitt and Chris Good the aim of the club has been to see the 1st xv complete all their fixtures. Despite not recording a win this season we have to admire the commitment of coaches, players and officials in their efforts to turn around and sustain the future of this proud club.
UUC have experienced the step up in opposition after securing promotion this season from Div 3. In their efforts to stay in Div 2 they are involved in a battle with Lisburn to avoid finishing in 9th place and the playoffs. When these two sides met on the North coast on the 22.10.16 the students ran out 36 – 0 winners.
Donaghadee Head coach Paul Blewitt was shocked by the passing of club stalwart David Monson. For the match at the weekend Captain Dan Lindsay joins Phil Collins in the front row. Jack Matthews and Ozzy Gordon continue in the second row with Matty Martin and Matthew Johnston in the back row with Robbie Ingham returning at scrum half.
UUC Director of Rugby Brett Campbell agreed his team were beaten by a better Grosvenor team two weeks ago. His players missed their first up tackles that allowed Grosvenor to come on to the ball with pace and power. They were deserved winners.
The goal for the students is to continue to keep the pressure on Lisburn to avoid finishing in 9th place. UUC players won’t underestimate travelling to Donaghadee on Saturday. The coaches are expecting to pick from a similar squad although they have two players away skiing in Lewis McCrabbe and Mitch Lucas. Centre H Maxwell returns with Calvin Galbraith coming into the second row along with the impressive Gary Burke. The Mullingar student has been one of the stand out performers for the students this season. The coaches are pleased with the progress that seven of the first year students have made in becoming regulars in the 1st xv this season. With the good structures in place at the University it will ensure these students are not lost to the club game. It also presents a good option for players to play at the University rather than their clubs during their years in University.
Grosvenor v Academy
The Gibson Park team have won 3/3 league games in 2017 to remain only four points behind second place CIYMS in the contest for the playoff place. After a slow start to their season under new Head coach Robert Ford Grosvenor have only lost 1/7 league games.
Academy were at one stage challenging for 2nd place. With only 1/3 wins in 2017 coach Gareth Lynn will be hoping his players recover from letting slip a 30 – 7 lead against Lisburn to lose 32 – 30 two weeks ago. When these two sides met at Roughfort on the 22.10.16 Academy were 29 – 23 winners.
Grosvenor Head coach Robert Ford faces several selection decisions with a number of his 1st xv players unavailable. It will be a test of squad depth with players unavailable due to work, injury and holidays. He is looking a win to keep the team’s momentum going forward.
Academy team 1 – 17 Jonny Allen, Lee Moody, Adam Martin, Stuart Henderson, Graeme Dobbin, Richard Henderson, Matt Corkery, Stewart Martin, David Kenny, Jordan Buchanan, Gavin Braiden, Chris Cooper, Steven Fawcett, Ben Cave, Simon Beattie, Troy Wilson. u/k.
Lisburn v Limavady
Changes in the coaching staff at Lisburn have had an impact with Lisburn winning 3/4 league games to move ahead of 9th place UUC and open up a ten point advantage. Limavady on the other hand were challenging for 2nd place after securing promotion this season from Div 3. They have only won 1/5 league games and have slipped down to 5th place. Head coach Mark Nicholl will want his young playing squad to end this losing run and put in a strong finish to their season. Lisburn showed they turned the corner by coming back from 30 – 7 down at Academy to win 32 – 30. They will also be looking to reverse their heavy 66 – 0 defeat at Limavady on the 22.10.16.
Lisburn Head coach Andy Postlethwaite believes his players give their opponents too much respect at times due to previous results. He is hoping the team back up their win at Academy with another win over Limavady this weekend. Team selection will be finalised at training on Thursday night.
Randalstown v CIYMS
Head coach Gary Longwell will have been disappointed to see his Randalstown team lose 21 – 18 at Ards after extra time in the Towns Cup. With only 1/3 league wins in 2017 he again will be looking a strong finish from his team to their season. CIYMS like Randalstown have only won 1/3 league games in 2017 as they look to shake off the challenge of Grosvenor for 2nd place and the play offs. When these two teams met at Belmont on the 26.11.16 CIYMS had to work hard for their narrow 7 – 3 win.
For Randalstown Head coach Gary Longwell it has been a frustrating season, but the club remains in a strong position with an excellent youth structure in place. He is expecting his young 1st xv playing squad to continue to improve over the next few years.
CIYMS Head coach Gareth Fry is hoping to field his strongest side against Randalstown with centre Callum Irvine undergoing a late fitness test. Final selection will be confirmed on Thursday night.
KUKRI ULSTER RUGBY CHAMPIONSHIP DIV 3. (ROUND 18/22)
Kick off 2.30PM.
BHSFP (9 ) v PSNI (1)
Ballymoney (2) v Cavan (10)
Holywood (7) v Virginia (6)
Monaghan (11) v Newry (5)
Ophir (12) v Lurgan (3)
Strabane (4) v Letterkenny (8)