View our preview of the weekend's domestic rugby action in the Ulster Bank All Ireland League, Millar McCall Wylie Junior Cup and Kukri Ulster Championship.
This weekend we see the final games of 2016 in week nine of the Ulster Bank All Ireland League, before the Xmas break, with league action due to resume again on the 21st (Section 2) and 28th January 2017 (Section1). There is also the eagerly awaited Millar McCall Wylie Cup semi final at the Thomas Mellon Playing fields involving host side Omagh and Div 2 leaders Coleraine who remain undefeated this season. Unfortunately this game fell victim to the wintry conditions in County Tyrone last Sat. The winners will go ahead to contest the final against Cup favourites Ballynahinch seconds at the Kingspan stadium on the 13th December. League action also resumes in Div 1, 2 and 3 of the Kukri Ulster Rugby Championship this week.
In the All Ireland League Ballymena held on to 4th place in Div 1B with a 28 - 18 win at Ballynahinch with the County Down club looking nervously at the teams below them in 6th place. Ballymena entertain leaders Buccaneers at Eaton Park whilst Ballynahinch travel to Cork to play 8th place Dolphin with five points separating these two teams.
In Div 2A Banbridge consolidated their position at the top with a 33 - 10 win at home to Galway Corinthians. They have been joined by Queens Uni in 2nd place a further three points behind. The students winning the physical battle at Deramore Park against Belfast Harlequins 32 - 15. A depleted Malone squad surprised Blackrock College in Dublin to win 24 - 18. The East Belfast side are now five points behind 4th place Highfield in 6th place. Belfast Harlequins showed their fighting qualities to push Queens all the way. Sadly the South Belfast side came away from this encounter empty handed and remain bottom in 10th place.
In Div 2B leaders Armagh recorded the result of the day to win 28 - 18 at second place Greystones. Young out half Cormac Fox was the hero converting six penalties. The City of Derry v Dungannon match fell victim to the weather.
In Div 2C leaders Rainey OB won a hard earned 26 - 5 bonus point win over 10th place Kanturk in Magherfelt to open up a five point lead on 2nd place Navan. Bangor slipped down from 3rd to 4th place following their shock 13 - 6 home defeat to lowly Bruff.
In the Ulster Rugby Championship we have probably the most open title chase in Div 1 this season with anyone of five teams including Portadown, Omagh, Enniskillen, Instonians and Ballyclare all in contention for the league title. Ards remain favourites to be relegated with Clogher Valley winning a crucial league game at Dromore 3 - 0. A win for Clogher Valley at Portadown this weekend could see the Fivemiletown side move out of the bottom two. The pressure is now on teams like Cooke, Carrick and Dromore to start picking up league points to put points difference between them and Clogher Valley.
In Div 2 CIYMS were unable to pick up the bonus point in their hard earned 7 - 3 win over Randalstown last Sat. The East Belfast club have moved one point ahead of second place Coleraine having played one game more. Can teams like Academy, Limavady and Larne close the gap. Donaghadee and Lisburn remain in the bottom two with both teams still seeking their first league win of the season.
In Div 3 undefeated Ballymoney remain favourites to win the league with the PSNI moving into 2nd place two points behind having played one match more.
ULSTER BANK ALL IRELAND LEAGUE
DIV 1B
Old Wesley (3) v Naas (5)
Ballymena (4) v Buccaneers (1)
Dolphin (8) v Ballynahinch (6)
Galwegians (9) v Shannon (10)
UL Bohemians (2) v UCC (7)
Ballymena v Buccaneers
There was delight amongst the Ballymena supporters and players as they enjoyed their first win at Ballymacarn Park in six seasons defeating the home side 28 - 18. The expectation this week is can the Braid side turn over league leaders Buccaneers at Eaton Park to maintain their promotion challenge. As Head coach Andy Graham points out the release of Ulster players is pivotal to the clubs quest for Div 1A rugby next season. Injuries and unavailabilities will deprive the coach of potentially 4/5 players from last weeks playing squad. Prop Aidy Kirkpatrick has a kidney injury, Hooker Adam McBurney picked up a fractured metatarsal training with Ulster this week, Captain David Whann was knocked out in the game at Ballynahinch and will now follow the return to play protocols. John Andrews is required by Ulster with Ulster second row Kieran Treadwell's availability in doubt until later in the week. Back row forward Tony McGuinness is unavailable for the game.
The Ballymena squad for this weekend is expected to be along the lines of 1 - 20. Bryan Young, James Taggart, Chris Cundell, Kieran Treadwell, Mark Foster, Connor Smyth, Stephen Mulholland, James Gallagher, Dave Shanahan, Richie McMaster, James Beattie, Mark Best, Callum Patterson, Jordan Foster, Rodger McBurney, Houston Bonnar, Andrew Ferguson, Willy McKay, Glenn Baillie, John Creighton.
The coach will make several late fitness tests with James Beattie and Jonny Rossborough both expected to come through. There are also options with both Nicky Stirling and Dean Reynolds to come into the backline if required. If Kieran Treadwell is unavailable Connor Smyth will move into the second row with Willy McKay coming in at 7 and Stephen Mulholland moving to 6.
Andy Graham was delighted with his teams win last Sat. He was also disappointed with the three yellow cards received that seen his team go down to 15 v 13 and 14 v 12 during a difficult second half. He was pleased with the teams performance in the first half. He describes the game with Buccaneers as massive in terms of their season and the clubs ambitions. In the three games against UCC, Old Wesley and UL Bohemians failure to take scoring opportunities denied his team a higher playing position in Div 1B.
The coach is pleased he has a forward unit that does not get bullied around and out muscled Ballynahinch last Sat. The key on matchday is the mindset of the players. Sometimes they think they are better than the opposition. Attitude can be a problem. Players need to stay focused.
For this weekend the coach is looking nothing less than 100% commitment form his players for 80 mins. He knows his players face a big task against Buccaneers and with a bit of luck can get a result.
Ballynahinch v Dolphin
This is a crucial game for Head coach Derek Suffern and his players. Hinch have lost four out of five of their last AIL games. Not the form we were expecting for a team to be challenging for promotion this season. With five points separating these two teams Ballynahinch will need to show the same character that brought them a 30 - 24 win at Galwegians on the 5th November. Injuries to key forwards James Simpson, John Donnan and Lorcan Dow have impacted on the side in recent weeks.
Hinch starting xv for the trip to Cork includes Chris Stevenson, Jonny Murphy, Jonny Simpson, James Simpson, Michael Graham, Lorcan Dow, Connor Joyce, Callum Irvine, Angus Lloyd, Jonny McPhillips, Chris Orr, Stuart Morrow, Jordan Gratton, David Nicholson and Chris Quinn with bench replacements to be finalised.
Ulster Academy prop Craig Trenier is ruled out through injury with winger David Busby away with the Ireland Sevens squad to Dubai this weekend. Jacob Stockdale has not been released by Ulster.
DIV 2A
Galway Corinthians (8) v Sunday'sWell (7)
Highfield (4) v Banbridge (1)
Malone (6) v Belfast Harlequins (10)
Nenagh Ormond (3) v Blackrock College (5)
Queens Uni (2) v Cashel RFC (9)
Banbridge v Highfield
Head coach Daniel Soper and his players learnt from last season that being top of Div 2A at Xmas guarantees nothing in April when they missed out on promotion. The game at Highfield is important and the team will be well prepared as they are in all games. His team started 2016 with a win at Cashel and it would be nice to finish 2016 with another win.
Banbridge pick the same starting xv that defeated Galway Corinthians. The coach is waiting on a couple of injury updates before finalising his bench replacements.
Malone v Belfast Harlequins
Head coach Paddy Armstrong was delighted with the performance of his injury ravaged squad at Blackrock College last Sat when the East Belfast side won 24 - 18. He felt it was probably the best 80 minutes the players have put in this season. Blackrock were very dangerous with ball in hand and played a very expansive style. However his Malone side were good value for their win.
Selection will be delayed with the coach awaiting updates on injury and unavailability of players. There were no major injuries from last week after a lot of bad luck on the injury front.
Harlequins made Queens Uni work very hard for their win last Sat at Deramore and the coach is expecting another physical encounter with his Belfast neighbours. He is aware they have very good players throughout the team and he is expecting his team to be in a big challenge.
Focus this week is building on the work that has been done in training over the last number of weeks. Ulster forward Chris Henry has been helping at training and has had a very good reaction from all the players.
Belfast Harlequins assistant coach Keith Pyper is looking forward to the game with Malone at Gibson Park. He felt his team put in a much improved performance against Queens Uni and were unlucky not to take any points from the match in their 32 - 15 defeat. Along with Head coach Andrew Gillespie, Quins keep the same team that played against Queens Uni where the coaches felt that Quins controlled many parts of the game against the students. The players have been working hard in training this week and there is a feeling in the squad that the Quins can get a result this weekend.
Queens University v Cashel RFC
Head coach Bob Young is aware his players had to work very hard to secure their 32 - 15 win at Deramore against Quins last Sat. He expected nothing less from Quins and has several injury doubts from this very physical encounter. Three of his backs are unlikely to be available after picking up injuries with a number of the forwards picking up minor knocks. These injuries will be assessed in the coming days at training before selection is finalised later this week.
Nick Timoney is unavailable due to Ireland Sevens commitments along with Jonny Milliken. Alex Thompson, Marcus Rea and Jonny Stewart remain on the injured list.
The coach is aware his team can go top of Div 2A before the Xmas break, if they defeat Cashel and Banbridge slip up at Highfield. It is important for the coaches and the players to concentrate on the things under their control and see what happens this weekend. He doesn't mind where his team is, it is the end of season that counts.
Latest update from Head coach Bob Young. There will be no changes to the starting pack that played against Belfast Harlequins with Andrew Clingan coming on to the bench for Bronson Ross. In the backs injuries rule out Rory Bell, Connor McKee and Paddy Farrell. This provides opportunites for a new centre pairing of Zac Jordan and Rory Butler. Conor Kelly returns from injury to start at 15 with Connor Shiels providing cover from the bench
DIV 2B
Armagh (1) v Wanderers (3)
Dungannon (6) v Old Crescent (5)
MU Barnhall (4) v City Of Derry (10)
Skerries (8) v Bective Rangers (7)
Thomond (9) v Greystones (2)
Armagh v Wanderers
Head coach Alex McCloy is expecting his selection to be along similar lines to the squad that defeated second place Greystones 28 - 18 last week. The squad have a few minor niggles but no major concerns for this weekend. Ulster under 19 out half Cormac Fox has been outstanding in the last two games against Greystones and Thomond, showing great maturity and game management.
The coach is expecting Wanderers to be a big test for his players in the final AIL fixture before the Xmas break. It is all about the players focusing on themselves and executing the opportunities when they come along. His squad are capable of getting a result and reaching the halfway stage of the season unbeaten. Armagh remain the only undefeated team in the AIL this season.
Expect one of the biggest crowds of the season at the Palace grounds for this key fixture.
Dungannon v Old Crescent
There was a mixed reaction at Dungannon last week when their AIL game at City of Derry was called off due to the weather. Head coach Andy Hughes would have preferred the game to go ahead as the players had prepared for it. Players had given up tickets to go to the Ireland v Australia game. They were disappointed, but a weeks rest certainly didn't do the players any harm. There is a possibility this postponed match will be played on the 10th December or there is a possibility of the match being played on the 31st December if both teams agree. Neither date is ideal but it is a case of which suits best.
Looking ahead to this weekend, this is a pivotal game for Dungannon before the players head into the Xmas break. With Old Crescent, Wanderers, MU Barnhall and Dungannon all so close, to get a win on Sat and stay in touch with the top four would be a huge effort given that the squad have really struggled over the past month with injuries. With more players filtering back each week, it gives the players that are playing a little psychological boost.
The coach welcomes back Peter Doran, Daniel Maxwell and Mark Riddell into his match day squad.
City of Derry v MU Barnhall
The North West side are still seeking their first win in the AIL. The opposition does not get any easier with 4th place MU Barnhall their opponents this week. Coach Richard McCarter is unavailable due to work commitments with centre David Graham added to their injury list. City of Derry had their home game with Ulster neighbours Dungannon postponed last week due to the wintry weather.
DIV 2C
Bruff (7) v Rainey OB (1)
Kanturk (10) v Boyne (9)
Navan RFC (2) v Seapoint (8)
Sligo (5) v Bangor (4)
Tullamore (3) v Midleton (6)
Rainey OB v Bruff
This weekend it is the turn of leaders Rainey OB to play Bruff with the Magherfelt side making the long journey to Killyballyowen Park outside Limerick. Last weekend Bruff caused an upset by defeating 3rd place Bangor at Upritchard Park 13 - 6. Rainey Head coach John Andrew's and his coaching staff are aware the Munster side have hit a run of form and like Rainey have won their last two games. The coach views this game as the toughest away trips of the year. Confidence is high in the Rainey squad. For this week the coach is hoping to welcome back Captain Jonny Lees, Jonny Burgess, Ronan McCusker and Oisin Quinn. Injury rules out prop Stephen Rutledge who injured a hamstring against Kanturk.
Bangor v Sligo
Ist xv Manager Ricky Armstrong acknowledges his Bangor side were beaten by the better team last Saturday with Bruff winning 13 - 6 at Upritchard Park. The Bangor scrum dominated once again but a few mistakes in key areas at crucial times denied the team that all important score in the final quarter to move clear off Bruff. Instead Bruff went down to the Bangor end and scored the all important converted try. It was another great game of rugby to be involved in.
The biggest blow that came through from this defeat was the loss of the teams talismanic leader Jamie Clegg with a suspected tear in his ACL that will rule Jamie out for the rest of the season. He has been regarded as the natural leader amongst the players and has done more for the club on the pitch in the last four seasons that any other player. Everybody at Bangor wishes Jamie Clegg a speedy recovery.
Bangor are fortunate that they have Ryan Latimer who has fully recovered from his own knee injury to take Jamies place in the back row along with Curtis Stewart.
Bangor are awaiting on several late fitness tests before confirming their selection for the trip to Sligo. One point separates these two sides with Bangor looking to consolidate their top four placing before the Xmas break.
Bangor pack will be chosen from Captain Philip Whyte, James Leary, Conor Pyper, Andrew Jackson, Andrew Shaw, Craig Burton, Ryan Latimer, James Stewart, David Bradford, Mike Apsley and Curtis Stewart.
The backs include Ali Lockhart and Jason Morgan at 9 and 10 with Desi Fusco and Phil Broderick in the centre. The back three will be chosen from Rob Gamble, Chris Burns, Mark Widdowson, Adam McCusker and Matthew Baillie. Ross McCloskey was concusssed on Sat and will follow return to play protocols.
Bangor have 17 first xv players on their injured list. They include Conor McIImurray, Charlie Clegg, Orran McIImurray, Glen Burton, Freddie Black, David Moody, Jamie Clegg, Dave Caughey, Gareth Wright, Ross McCloskey, Lewis Loane, Lewis Sampson, Taylor Ferguson, David Charles, Mike Weir, Ben Worthington and Chris Morgan.
MILLAR McCALL WYLIE JUNIOR CUP SEMI FINAL
Omagh v Coleraine
Both teams were disappointed the game did not go ahead last Saturday with the winners due to play favourites Ballynahinch seconds in the Final at the Kingspan stadium on Tuesday the 13th December. Omagh Head coach Phil Marshall has a full squad at his disposal for this week.
Coleraine Head coach Richard Boyd is able to add Bokkie Carstens and top try scorer Alan Clarke to his squad this week which means they travel to Omagh at full strength.
KUKRI ULSTER RUGBY CHAMPIONSHIP DIV 1
Ballyclare (5) v Dromore (6)
Carrickfergus (7) v Instonians (4)
Portadown (1) v Clogher Valley (9)
Cooke (8) v Enniskillen (3)
Omagh (2) v Ards (10). Postponed
Ballyclare v Dromore
Head coach Mike McKeever is looking forward to returning to the Cloughan with his Ballyclare side after several back to back fixtures away in the league, Junior Cup and the AIL Junior Cup. They face difficult opponents in Dromore this week who are also chasing league points.
The players were delighted to have a week off and are looking forward to the Dromore game. In their last outing at Cooke two weeks ago Ballyclare had to work hard for their 23 - 18 win. The coach felt his team were capable of more. He gave credit to Cooke coach Colin Atkinson and his Cooke team who are a hard team to play against as well as having several good players in their side.
The coach won't finalise his selection until after training. He is not expecting any changes to the backline that played against Cooke. In the forwards he has more options and competition for places which is excellent. The coach is really looking forward to the game this week.
His view is that league positions don't really take effect until the first half of the season is completed. He finds all teams in Div 1 are difficult opponents and if the mindset of his players is right they will be a force in the league.
Carrickfergus v Instonians
Like several other teams in Div 1 Carrick have only played one game in the last five weeks. That was a narrow 14 - 13 loss at home to Omagh two weeks ago. After being promoted last season Carrick are in 7th place with three wins from their first six matches. Like Cooke and Dromore they are aware that 9th place Clogher Valley are finding their form again and putting pressure on these teams to keep picking up league points. Carrick coaches the expereinced DavyScott and Micky Rainey have made real progress and are ambitious to see their team move into the top four. Saturday presents an opportunity against an Instonians side who have only won one from their last six fixtures in all competitions. Once again the South Belfast team will be looking to finish the season in the top four to qualify for the All Ireland Junior Cup.
Injuries to key players have found Director of Rugby William Leacock and Head coach Mark McDowell fielding a young and inexperienced team. Their elimination from the the All Ireland Junior Cup and the Millar McCall Wylie Cup is a reflection on the rebuilding work both the coaches and the players are having to embrace to re-establish the team's position in Div 1 as one of the pre season favourites to win Div 1.
No doubt with so much at stake at the Tom Simm's Memorial Park on Sat there will be another fiercely contested match as befits the standards of the teams in Div 1.
Instonians welcome back Robert and Alan Whitten along with number 8 Rory McCurry for the trip to Carrick. William Leacock is expecting a tough game.
Portadown v Clogher Valley
Head coach Richard Hedley was disappointed with the performance of his Portadown side in their crushing 45 - 10 defeat at Ballynahinch in the Junior Cup semi final last Sat. Having lost to this weekend's opponents Clogher Valley three weeks ago in the AIL Junior Cup quarter finals 15 - 8 at Chambers Park, Head coach Richard Hedley has the task of lifting his players after seeing his team eliminated from two Cup competitions in three weeks. A season that was promising so much has started to unravel for the mid Ulster side. Can his players respond by retaining their place at the top of Div 1 this weekend. They face a resurgent Clogher Valley team who have won their last three games most notably that crucial first league win at Dromore 3- 0 two weeks ago.
Coach Richard Hedley felt his team needed to be at their best to make it competitive at Ballynahinch, but unfortunately they weren't . His players made too many mistakes against a good Ballynahinch side.
This Saturday the coach makes a number of changes.In the forwards second row Danny Alexander isn't available so John Graham comes into replace him. James Wright moves to the back row with Matthew Thorton dropping down to the bench. In the backs Ryan Calvert replaces Andrew Chambers on the wing. Portadown will want to get back to winning ways. They defeated Ards 40 - 7 at home two weeks ago before travelling to Ballynahinch.
The view from Clogher Valley is that Portadown will start favourites this weekend. Portadown missed an opportunity to defeat Clogher Valley in the AIL Junior Cup. There is also a feeling that Portadown will want to get their season back on track after being eliminated from two cup competitions. The Clogher team enter this weekend on the back of three wins with a feeling they missed opportunities to put further points on the board at Dromore.
The pack is strong with Neil Henderson keeping his place at prop after a good performance at Dromore. The teams preferred back row are reunited for the first time this season with Eugene McKenna, David Sharkey and number 8 Ryan Wilson presenting a challenge for any back row in Div 1. Philip Moore takes his place on the bench with Ian Mulligan.
Both Andy Breen and Toby McAlpine are unavailable in the backs with Nathan Orr coming into the centre and Eamon Whyte taking his place on the wing.
An awful lot at stake for both sides in this match with no quarter given or expected to be given when these two teams meet each other.
Cooke v Enniskillen
Both these teams come into this match with having played one one game in the last five weeks. Not ideal preparation for the coaches and players. Again another match with a lot at stake. Cooke are looking over their shoulder at the ever improving Clogher Valley. Enniskillen know if Portadown slip up at home to Clogher Valley, Enniskillen can return to the top of Div 1 with a win at Cooke.
Cooke Head coach Colin Atkinson describes it as being a very frustrating period with a lack of games for his players. Work commitments along with few games being played has left their season disjointed. Keeping players motivated to train has been another issue.
Against Ballyclare two weeks ago Cooke went down 23 - 18 at Shaws bridge. The coach felt his players matched Ballyclare for the majority of the game with Ballyclares match fitness allowing them to pull away in the final 10 minutes. However his players showed real character to win a penalty at the end to claim a losing bonus point.
Unfortunately this week Jamie McClelland and Sam Bridge have declared themselves unavailable for the rest of the season due to career commitments, having already lost Liam Bennett for the season with a knee injury. It leaves the coach and his small playing squad very light. On a positive note Philip Cartmill returns to play this weekend following thumb surgery.
Cooke points scorers in the match against Ballyclare were Kyle Mitchell and Russell Hunter1 x try each with Alan Gourlay kicking one conversion and two penalties.
Enniskillen Head coach Willy Gibson has echoed the same views as his counter part with the inactivity of his team despite attempts to arrange friendly fixtures. The focus has been on three training sessions each week. This has given the coach and players the opportunity to work on areas they have wanted to improve on.
For this weekend the coach has a full squad to pick from apart from the unavailable Ryan Cathcart in the forwards. In the backs the coach has a few selection headaches as all his backs have been working hard in training looking to get a starting place. Robert Balcolume returns from training with the Irish Sevens squad with full back Ashley Finlay returning from injury.
The coach looks at the Cooke game as a challenge not only with the break, but Cooke have shown with a few close results and their sharp backline they will pose a threat to the ambitions of this Enniskillen squad. Willy Gibson still feels his side are yet to click and create the rugby they know they can play. He is looking his players to build on their good start and ensure all that effort is not wasted by getting complacent.
KUKRI ULSTER RUGBY CHAMPIONSHIP/CONFERENCE DIV 1
Ballynahinch seconds v Ballymena seconds
KUKRI ULSTER RUGBY CHAMPIONSHIP DIV 2
Coleraine (2) v Randalstown (6). Postponed
Limavady (4) v Larne (5)
UUC (8) v Grosvenor (7)
Limavady v Larne
One match played in five weeks for Limavady and Head coach Mark Nicholl, that was the 17 - 16 win at CIYMS in league on 12th Nov. Unfortunately Belfast Harlequins seconds could not field a team for the Conference league game at Limavady on the 19th Nov and had to concede the match. Two points separate Limavady and Larne in 4th and 5th place with the result crucial for both teams if they want to remain in the promotion mix.
Limavady are expecting a tough match with Larne with coach mark Nicholl having pretty much a full strength squad at his disposal.
Larne Head coach Laurence Kelly has witnessed the highs and lows of being a coach at a club with a small playing squad. One week with a full playing squad you win 73 - 0 at Donaghadee and then the following week without the majority of your 1st xv you lose 70 - 0 at home to league leaders Coleraine. Player unavailability determines how successful your season will be. The coach once again is missing a number of players as they face a must win game at Limavady if the team wants to remain in the promotion mix.
UUC v Grosvenor
Director of Rugby Brett Campbell has been pleased with the performance of his UUC side as the season progresses. He felt the players put in a decent performance at Randalstown losing 25 - 15. A couple of early injuries did not help the students who were forced into making positional changes. The coaching staff felt the players deserved at worst a losing bonus point. There were also lessons learned that it is the players responsibility to get the ball over the try line.
Grosvenor are always a well prepared team and the players know it will be a big challenge facing them this week. UUC are hoping to have influential centre James Perry and back row forward Mitch Lucas back in their match day squad along with Captain Marty O'Neill. Influential Kiwi centre Tom Kavanagh has now returned home.
Coach Jonny Black has worked really hard on squads fitness levels, Core skills and game appreciation scenarios with the students enjoying their rugby despite their league position. The focus for the team is to keep asking questions of the opposition in the weeks ahead without feeling the pressure of needing to pick up league points too much.
KUKRI ULSTER RUGBY CHAMPIONSHIP/CONFERENCE DIV 2
Academy v Belfast Harlequins seconds
Banbridge seconds v Lisburn
CIYMS v Malone seconds. Played Thursday 1.12.16. Kick off 8PM
Donaghadee v Armagh seconds
KUKRI ULSTER RUGBY CHAMPIONSHIP DIV 3
Ballymoney (1) v Strabane (4)
Cavan (10) v BHSFP (5)
Letterkenny (9) v Holywood (7)
Lurgan (3) v PSNI (2)
Monaghan (11) v Ophir (12)
Newry (6) v Virginia (8)
This weekend we see the final games of 2016 in week nine of the Ulster Bank All Ireland League, before the Xmas break, with league action due to resume again on the 21st (Section 2) and 28th January 2017 (Section1). There is also the eagerly awaited Millar McCall Wylie Cup semi final at the Thomas Mellon Playing fields involving host side Omagh and Div 2 leaders Coleraine who remain undefeated this season. Unfortunately this game fell victim to the wintry conditions in County Tyrone last Sat. The winners will go ahead to contest the final against Cup favourites Ballynahinch seconds at the Kingspan stadium on the 13th December. League action also resumes in Div 1, 2 and 3 of the Kukri Ulster Rugby Championship this week.
In the All Ireland League Ballymena held on to 4th place in Div 1B with a 28 - 18 win at Ballynahinch with the County Down club looking nervously at the teams below them in 6th place. Ballymena entertain leaders Buccaneers at Eaton Park whilst Ballynahinch travel to Cork to play 8th place Dolphin with five points separating these two teams.
In Div 2A Banbridge consolidated their position at the top with a 33 - 10 win at home to Galway Corinthians. They have been joined by Queens Uni in 2nd place a further three points behind. The students winning the physical battle at Deramore Park against Belfast Harlequins 32 - 15. A depleted Malone squad surprised Blackrock College in Dublin to win 24 - 18. The East Belfast side are now five points behind 4th place Highfield in 6th place. Belfast Harlequins showed their fighting qualities to push Queens all the way. Sadly the South Belfast side came away from this encounter empty handed and remain bottom in 10th place.
In Div 2B leaders Armagh recorded the result of the day to win 28 - 18 at second place Greystones. Young out half Cormac Fox was the hero converting six penalties. The City of Derry v Dungannon match fell victim to the weather.
In Div 2C leaders Rainey OB won a hard earned 26 - 5 bonus point win over 10th place Kanturk in Magherfelt to open up a five point lead on 2nd place Navan. Bangor slipped down from 3rd to 4th place following their shock 13 - 6 home defeat to lowly Bruff.
In the Ulster Rugby Championship we have probably the most open title chase in Div 1 this season with anyone of five teams including Portadown, Omagh, Enniskillen, Instonians and Ballyclare all in contention for the league title. Ards remain favourites to be relegated with Clogher Valley winning a crucial league game at Dromore 3 - 0. A win for Clogher Valley at Portadown this weekend could see the Fivemiletown side move out of the bottom two. The pressure is now on teams like Cooke, Carrick and Dromore to start picking up league points to put points difference between them and Clogher Valley.
In Div 2 CIYMS were unable to pick up the bonus point in their hard earned 7 - 3 win over Randalstown last Sat. The East Belfast club have moved one point ahead of second place Coleraine having played one game more. Can teams like Academy, Limavady and Larne close the gap. Donaghadee and Lisburn remain in the bottom two with both teams still seeking their first league win of the season.
In Div 3 undefeated Ballymoney remain favourites to win the league with the PSNI moving into 2nd place two points behind having played one match more.
ULSTER BANK ALL IRELAND LEAGUE
DIV 1B
Old Wesley (3) v Naas (5)
Ballymena (4) v Buccaneers (1)
Dolphin (8) v Ballynahinch (6)
Galwegians (9) v Shannon (10)
UL Bohemians (2) v UCC (7)
Ballymena v Buccaneers
There was delight amongst the Ballymena supporters and players as they enjoyed their first win at Ballymacarn Park in six seasons defeating the home side 28 - 18. The expectation this week is can the Braid side turn over league leaders Buccaneers at Eaton Park to maintain their promotion challenge. As Head coach Andy Graham points out the release of Ulster players is pivotal to the clubs quest for Div 1A rugby next season. Injuries and unavailabilities will deprive the coach of potentially 4/5 players from last weeks playing squad. Prop Aidy Kirkpatrick has a kidney injury, Hooker Adam McBurney picked up a fractured metatarsal training with Ulster this week, Captain David Whann was knocked out in the game at Ballynahinch and will now follow the return to play protocols. John Andrews is required by Ulster with Ulster second row Kieran Treadwell's availability in doubt until later in the week. Back row forward Tony McGuinness is unavailable for the game.
The Ballymena squad for this weekend is expected to be along the lines of 1 - 20. Bryan Young, James Taggart, Chris Cundell, Kieran Treadwell, Mark Foster, Connor Smyth, Stephen Mulholland, James Gallagher, Dave Shanahan, Richie McMaster, James Beattie, Mark Best, Callum Patterson, Jordan Foster, Rodger McBurney, Houston Bonnar, Andrew Ferguson, Willy McKay, Glenn Baillie, John Creighton.
The coach will make several late fitness tests with James Beattie and Jonny Rossborough both expected to come through. There are also options with both Nicky Stirling and Dean Reynolds to come into the backline if required. If Kieran Treadwell is unavailable Connor Smyth will move into the second row with Willy McKay coming in at 7 and Stephen Mulholland moving to 6.
Andy Graham was delighted with his teams win last Sat. He was also disappointed with the three yellow cards received that seen his team go down to 15 v 13 and 14 v 12 during a difficult second half. He was pleased with the teams performance in the first half. He describes the game with Buccaneers as massive in terms of their season and the clubs ambitions. In the three games against UCC, Old Wesley and UL Bohemians failure to take scoring opportunities denied his team a higher playing position in Div 1B.
The coach is pleased he has a forward unit that does not get bullied around and out muscled Ballynahinch last Sat. The key on matchday is the mindset of the players. Sometimes they think they are better than the opposition. Attitude can be a problem. Players need to stay focused.
For this weekend the coach is looking nothing less than 100% commitment form his players for 80 mins. He knows his players face a big task against Buccaneers and with a bit of luck can get a result.
Ballynahinch v Dolphin
This is a crucial game for Head coach Derek Suffern and his players. Hinch have lost four out of five of their last AIL games. Not the form we were expecting for a team to be challenging for promotion this season. With five points separating these two teams Ballynahinch will need to show the same character that brought them a 30 - 24 win at Galwegians on the 5th November. Injuries to key forwards James Simpson, John Donnan and Lorcan Dow have impacted on the side in recent weeks.
Hinch starting xv for the trip to Cork includes Chris Stevenson, Jonny Murphy, Jonny Simpson, James Simpson, Michael Graham, Lorcan Dow, Connor Joyce, Callum Irvine, Angus Lloyd, Jonny McPhillips, Chris Orr, Stuart Morrow, Jordan Gratton, David Nicholson and Chris Quinn with bench replacements to be finalised.
Ulster Academy prop Craig Trenier is ruled out through injury with winger David Busby away with the Ireland Sevens squad to Dubai this weekend. Jacob Stockdale has not been released by Ulster.
DIV 2A
Galway Corinthians (8) v Sunday'sWell (7)
Highfield (4) v Banbridge (1)
Malone (6) v Belfast Harlequins (10)
Nenagh Ormond (3) v Blackrock College (5)
Queens Uni (2) v Cashel RFC (9)
Banbridge v Highfield
Head coach Daniel Soper and his players learnt from last season that being top of Div 2A at Xmas guarantees nothing in April when they missed out on promotion. The game at Highfield is important and the team will be well prepared as they are in all games. His team started 2016 with a win at Cashel and it would be nice to finish 2016 with another win.
Banbridge pick the same starting xv that defeated Galway Corinthians. The coach is waiting on a couple of injury updates before finalising his bench replacements.
Malone v Belfast Harlequins
Head coach Paddy Armstrong was delighted with the performance of his injury ravaged squad at Blackrock College last Sat when the East Belfast side won 24 - 18. He felt it was probably the best 80 minutes the players have put in this season. Blackrock were very dangerous with ball in hand and played a very expansive style. However his Malone side were good value for their win.
Selection will be delayed with the coach awaiting updates on injury and unavailability of players. There were no major injuries from last week after a lot of bad luck on the injury front.
Harlequins made Queens Uni work very hard for their win last Sat at Deramore and the coach is expecting another physical encounter with his Belfast neighbours. He is aware they have very good players throughout the team and he is expecting his team to be in a big challenge.
Focus this week is building on the work that has been done in training over the last number of weeks. Ulster forward Chris Henry has been helping at training and has had a very good reaction from all the players.
Belfast Harlequins assistant coach Keith Pyper is looking forward to the game with Malone at Gibson Park. He felt his team put in a much improved performance against Queens Uni and were unlucky not to take any points from the match in their 32 - 15 defeat. Along with Head coach Andrew Gillespie, Quins keep the same team that played against Queens Uni where the coaches felt that Quins controlled many parts of the game against the students. The players have been working hard in training this week and there is a feeling in the squad that the Quins can get a result this weekend.
Queens University v Cashel RFC
Head coach Bob Young is aware his players had to work very hard to secure their 32 - 15 win at Deramore against Quins last Sat. He expected nothing less from Quins and has several injury doubts from this very physical encounter. Three of his backs are unlikely to be available after picking up injuries with a number of the forwards picking up minor knocks. These injuries will be assessed in the coming days at training before selection is finalised later this week.
Nick Timoney is unavailable due to Ireland Sevens commitments along with Jonny Milliken. Alex Thompson, Marcus Rea and Jonny Stewart remain on the injured list.
The coach is aware his team can go top of Div 2A before the Xmas break, if they defeat Cashel and Banbridge slip up at Highfield. It is important for the coaches and the players to concentrate on the things under their control and see what happens this weekend. He doesn't mind where his team is, it is the end of season that counts.
Latest update from Head coach Bob Young. There will be no changes to the starting pack that played against Belfast Harlequins with Andrew Clingan coming on to the bench for Bronson Ross. In the backs injuries rule out Rory Bell, Connor McKee and Paddy Farrell. This provides opportunites for a new centre pairing of Zac Jordan and Rory Butler. Conor Kelly returns from injury to start at 15 with Connor Shiels providing cover from the bench
DIV 2B
Armagh (1) v Wanderers (3)
Dungannon (6) v Old Crescent (5)
MU Barnhall (4) v City Of Derry (10)
Skerries (8) v Bective Rangers (7)
Thomond (9) v Greystones (2)
Armagh v Wanderers
Head coach Alex McCloy is expecting his selection to be along similar lines to the squad that defeated second place Greystones 28 - 18 last week. The squad have a few minor niggles but no major concerns for this weekend. Ulster under 19 out half Cormac Fox has been outstanding in the last two games against Greystones and Thomond, showing great maturity and game management.
The coach is expecting Wanderers to be a big test for his players in the final AIL fixture before the Xmas break. It is all about the players focusing on themselves and executing the opportunities when they come along. His squad are capable of getting a result and reaching the halfway stage of the season unbeaten. Armagh remain the only undefeated team in the AIL this season.
Expect one of the biggest crowds of the season at the Palace grounds for this key fixture.
Dungannon v Old Crescent
There was a mixed reaction at Dungannon last week when their AIL game at City of Derry was called off due to the weather. Head coach Andy Hughes would have preferred the game to go ahead as the players had prepared for it. Players had given up tickets to go to the Ireland v Australia game. They were disappointed, but a weeks rest certainly didn't do the players any harm. There is a possibility this postponed match will be played on the 10th December or there is a possibility of the match being played on the 31st December if both teams agree. Neither date is ideal but it is a case of which suits best.
Looking ahead to this weekend, this is a pivotal game for Dungannon before the players head into the Xmas break. With Old Crescent, Wanderers, MU Barnhall and Dungannon all so close, to get a win on Sat and stay in touch with the top four would be a huge effort given that the squad have really struggled over the past month with injuries. With more players filtering back each week, it gives the players that are playing a little psychological boost.
The coach welcomes back Peter Doran, Daniel Maxwell and Mark Riddell into his match day squad.
City of Derry v MU Barnhall
The North West side are still seeking their first win in the AIL. The opposition does not get any easier with 4th place MU Barnhall their opponents this week. Coach Richard McCarter is unavailable due to work commitments with centre David Graham added to their injury list. City of Derry had their home game with Ulster neighbours Dungannon postponed last week due to the wintry weather.
DIV 2C
Bruff (7) v Rainey OB (1)
Kanturk (10) v Boyne (9)
Navan RFC (2) v Seapoint (8)
Sligo (5) v Bangor (4)
Tullamore (3) v Midleton (6)
Rainey OB v Bruff
This weekend it is the turn of leaders Rainey OB to play Bruff with the Magherfelt side making the long journey to Killyballyowen Park outside Limerick. Last weekend Bruff caused an upset by defeating 3rd place Bangor at Upritchard Park 13 - 6. Rainey Head coach John Andrew's and his coaching staff are aware the Munster side have hit a run of form and like Rainey have won their last two games. The coach views this game as the toughest away trips of the year. Confidence is high in the Rainey squad. For this week the coach is hoping to welcome back Captain Jonny Lees, Jonny Burgess, Ronan McCusker and Oisin Quinn. Injury rules out prop Stephen Rutledge who injured a hamstring against Kanturk.
Bangor v Sligo
Ist xv Manager Ricky Armstrong acknowledges his Bangor side were beaten by the better team last Saturday with Bruff winning 13 - 6 at Upritchard Park. The Bangor scrum dominated once again but a few mistakes in key areas at crucial times denied the team that all important score in the final quarter to move clear off Bruff. Instead Bruff went down to the Bangor end and scored the all important converted try. It was another great game of rugby to be involved in.
The biggest blow that came through from this defeat was the loss of the teams talismanic leader Jamie Clegg with a suspected tear in his ACL that will rule Jamie out for the rest of the season. He has been regarded as the natural leader amongst the players and has done more for the club on the pitch in the last four seasons that any other player. Everybody at Bangor wishes Jamie Clegg a speedy recovery.
Bangor are fortunate that they have Ryan Latimer who has fully recovered from his own knee injury to take Jamies place in the back row along with Curtis Stewart.
Bangor are awaiting on several late fitness tests before confirming their selection for the trip to Sligo. One point separates these two sides with Bangor looking to consolidate their top four placing before the Xmas break.
Bangor pack will be chosen from Captain Philip Whyte, James Leary, Conor Pyper, Andrew Jackson, Andrew Shaw, Craig Burton, Ryan Latimer, James Stewart, David Bradford, Mike Apsley and Curtis Stewart.
The backs include Ali Lockhart and Jason Morgan at 9 and 10 with Desi Fusco and Phil Broderick in the centre. The back three will be chosen from Rob Gamble, Chris Burns, Mark Widdowson, Adam McCusker and Matthew Baillie. Ross McCloskey was concusssed on Sat and will follow return to play protocols.
Bangor have 17 first xv players on their injured list. They include Conor McIImurray, Charlie Clegg, Orran McIImurray, Glen Burton, Freddie Black, David Moody, Jamie Clegg, Dave Caughey, Gareth Wright, Ross McCloskey, Lewis Loane, Lewis Sampson, Taylor Ferguson, David Charles, Mike Weir, Ben Worthington and Chris Morgan.
MILLAR McCALL WYLIE JUNIOR CUP SEMI FINAL
Omagh v Coleraine
Both teams were disappointed the game did not go ahead last Saturday with the winners due to play favourites Ballynahinch seconds in the Final at the Kingspan stadium on Tuesday the 13th December. Omagh Head coach Phil Marshall has a full squad at his disposal for this week.
Coleraine Head coach Richard Boyd is able to add Bokkie Carstens and top try scorer Alan Clarke to his squad this week which means they travel to Omagh at full strength.
KUKRI ULSTER RUGBY CHAMPIONSHIP DIV 1
Ballyclare (5) v Dromore (6)
Carrickfergus (7) v Instonians (4)
Portadown (1) v Clogher Valley (9)
Cooke (8) v Enniskillen (3)
Omagh (2) v Ards (10). Postponed
Ballyclare v Dromore
Head coach Mike McKeever is looking forward to returning to the Cloughan with his Ballyclare side after several back to back fixtures away in the league, Junior Cup and the AIL Junior Cup. They face difficult opponents in Dromore this week who are also chasing league points.
The players were delighted to have a week off and are looking forward to the Dromore game. In their last outing at Cooke two weeks ago Ballyclare had to work hard for their 23 - 18 win. The coach felt his team were capable of more. He gave credit to Cooke coach Colin Atkinson and his Cooke team who are a hard team to play against as well as having several good players in their side.
The coach won't finalise his selection until after training. He is not expecting any changes to the backline that played against Cooke. In the forwards he has more options and competition for places which is excellent. The coach is really looking forward to the game this week.
His view is that league positions don't really take effect until the first half of the season is completed. He finds all teams in Div 1 are difficult opponents and if the mindset of his players is right they will be a force in the league.
Carrickfergus v Instonians
Like several other teams in Div 1 Carrick have only played one game in the last five weeks. That was a narrow 14 - 13 loss at home to Omagh two weeks ago. After being promoted last season Carrick are in 7th place with three wins from their first six matches. Like Cooke and Dromore they are aware that 9th place Clogher Valley are finding their form again and putting pressure on these teams to keep picking up league points. Carrick coaches the expereinced DavyScott and Micky Rainey have made real progress and are ambitious to see their team move into the top four. Saturday presents an opportunity against an Instonians side who have only won one from their last six fixtures in all competitions. Once again the South Belfast team will be looking to finish the season in the top four to qualify for the All Ireland Junior Cup.
Injuries to key players have found Director of Rugby William Leacock and Head coach Mark McDowell fielding a young and inexperienced team. Their elimination from the the All Ireland Junior Cup and the Millar McCall Wylie Cup is a reflection on the rebuilding work both the coaches and the players are having to embrace to re-establish the team's position in Div 1 as one of the pre season favourites to win Div 1.
No doubt with so much at stake at the Tom Simm's Memorial Park on Sat there will be another fiercely contested match as befits the standards of the teams in Div 1.
Instonians welcome back Robert and Alan Whitten along with number 8 Rory McCurry for the trip to Carrick. William Leacock is expecting a tough game.
Portadown v Clogher Valley
Head coach Richard Hedley was disappointed with the performance of his Portadown side in their crushing 45 - 10 defeat at Ballynahinch in the Junior Cup semi final last Sat. Having lost to this weekend's opponents Clogher Valley three weeks ago in the AIL Junior Cup quarter finals 15 - 8 at Chambers Park, Head coach Richard Hedley has the task of lifting his players after seeing his team eliminated from two Cup competitions in three weeks. A season that was promising so much has started to unravel for the mid Ulster side. Can his players respond by retaining their place at the top of Div 1 this weekend. They face a resurgent Clogher Valley team who have won their last three games most notably that crucial first league win at Dromore 3- 0 two weeks ago.
Coach Richard Hedley felt his team needed to be at their best to make it competitive at Ballynahinch, but unfortunately they weren't . His players made too many mistakes against a good Ballynahinch side.
This Saturday the coach makes a number of changes.In the forwards second row Danny Alexander isn't available so John Graham comes into replace him. James Wright moves to the back row with Matthew Thorton dropping down to the bench. In the backs Ryan Calvert replaces Andrew Chambers on the wing. Portadown will want to get back to winning ways. They defeated Ards 40 - 7 at home two weeks ago before travelling to Ballynahinch.
The view from Clogher Valley is that Portadown will start favourites this weekend. Portadown missed an opportunity to defeat Clogher Valley in the AIL Junior Cup. There is also a feeling that Portadown will want to get their season back on track after being eliminated from two cup competitions. The Clogher team enter this weekend on the back of three wins with a feeling they missed opportunities to put further points on the board at Dromore.
The pack is strong with Neil Henderson keeping his place at prop after a good performance at Dromore. The teams preferred back row are reunited for the first time this season with Eugene McKenna, David Sharkey and number 8 Ryan Wilson presenting a challenge for any back row in Div 1. Philip Moore takes his place on the bench with Ian Mulligan.
Both Andy Breen and Toby McAlpine are unavailable in the backs with Nathan Orr coming into the centre and Eamon Whyte taking his place on the wing.
An awful lot at stake for both sides in this match with no quarter given or expected to be given when these two teams meet each other.
Cooke v Enniskillen
Both these teams come into this match with having played one one game in the last five weeks. Not ideal preparation for the coaches and players. Again another match with a lot at stake. Cooke are looking over their shoulder at the ever improving Clogher Valley. Enniskillen know if Portadown slip up at home to Clogher Valley, Enniskillen can return to the top of Div 1 with a win at Cooke.
Cooke Head coach Colin Atkinson describes it as being a very frustrating period with a lack of games for his players. Work commitments along with few games being played has left their season disjointed. Keeping players motivated to train has been another issue.
Against Ballyclare two weeks ago Cooke went down 23 - 18 at Shaws bridge. The coach felt his players matched Ballyclare for the majority of the game with Ballyclares match fitness allowing them to pull away in the final 10 minutes. However his players showed real character to win a penalty at the end to claim a losing bonus point.
Unfortunately this week Jamie McClelland and Sam Bridge have declared themselves unavailable for the rest of the season due to career commitments, having already lost Liam Bennett for the season with a knee injury. It leaves the coach and his small playing squad very light. On a positive note Philip Cartmill returns to play this weekend following thumb surgery.
Cooke points scorers in the match against Ballyclare were Kyle Mitchell and Russell Hunter1 x try each with Alan Gourlay kicking one conversion and two penalties.
Enniskillen Head coach Willy Gibson has echoed the same views as his counter part with the inactivity of his team despite attempts to arrange friendly fixtures. The focus has been on three training sessions each week. This has given the coach and players the opportunity to work on areas they have wanted to improve on.
For this weekend the coach has a full squad to pick from apart from the unavailable Ryan Cathcart in the forwards. In the backs the coach has a few selection headaches as all his backs have been working hard in training looking to get a starting place. Robert Balcolume returns from training with the Irish Sevens squad with full back Ashley Finlay returning from injury.
The coach looks at the Cooke game as a challenge not only with the break, but Cooke have shown with a few close results and their sharp backline they will pose a threat to the ambitions of this Enniskillen squad. Willy Gibson still feels his side are yet to click and create the rugby they know they can play. He is looking his players to build on their good start and ensure all that effort is not wasted by getting complacent.
KUKRI ULSTER RUGBY CHAMPIONSHIP/CONFERENCE DIV 1
Ballynahinch seconds v Ballymena seconds
KUKRI ULSTER RUGBY CHAMPIONSHIP DIV 2
Coleraine (2) v Randalstown (6). Postponed
Limavady (4) v Larne (5)
UUC (8) v Grosvenor (7)
Limavady v Larne
One match played in five weeks for Limavady and Head coach Mark Nicholl, that was the 17 - 16 win at CIYMS in league on 12th Nov. Unfortunately Belfast Harlequins seconds could not field a team for the Conference league game at Limavady on the 19th Nov and had to concede the match. Two points separate Limavady and Larne in 4th and 5th place with the result crucial for both teams if they want to remain in the promotion mix.
Limavady are expecting a tough match with Larne with coach mark Nicholl having pretty much a full strength squad at his disposal.
Larne Head coach Laurence Kelly has witnessed the highs and lows of being a coach at a club with a small playing squad. One week with a full playing squad you win 73 - 0 at Donaghadee and then the following week without the majority of your 1st xv you lose 70 - 0 at home to league leaders Coleraine. Player unavailability determines how successful your season will be. The coach once again is missing a number of players as they face a must win game at Limavady if the team wants to remain in the promotion mix.
UUC v Grosvenor
Director of Rugby Brett Campbell has been pleased with the performance of his UUC side as the season progresses. He felt the players put in a decent performance at Randalstown losing 25 - 15. A couple of early injuries did not help the students who were forced into making positional changes. The coaching staff felt the players deserved at worst a losing bonus point. There were also lessons learned that it is the players responsibility to get the ball over the try line.
Grosvenor are always a well prepared team and the players know it will be a big challenge facing them this week. UUC are hoping to have influential centre James Perry and back row forward Mitch Lucas back in their match day squad along with Captain Marty O'Neill. Influential Kiwi centre Tom Kavanagh has now returned home.
Coach Jonny Black has worked really hard on squads fitness levels, Core skills and game appreciation scenarios with the students enjoying their rugby despite their league position. The focus for the team is to keep asking questions of the opposition in the weeks ahead without feeling the pressure of needing to pick up league points too much.
KUKRI ULSTER RUGBY CHAMPIONSHIP/CONFERENCE DIV 2
Academy v Belfast Harlequins seconds
Banbridge seconds v Lisburn
CIYMS v Malone seconds. Played Thursday 1.12.16. Kick off 8PM
Donaghadee v Armagh seconds
KUKRI ULSTER RUGBY CHAMPIONSHIP DIV 3
Ballymoney (1) v Strabane (4)
Cavan (10) v BHSFP (5)
Letterkenny (9) v Holywood (7)
Lurgan (3) v PSNI (2)
Monaghan (11) v Ophir (12)
Newry (6) v Virginia (8)