Here is a preview of the weekend's domestic rugby action in the Ulster Bank All Ireland League, Ulster Bank All Ireland Junior Cup, River Rock Towns Cup and Gordon West Cup...
After a two week break from AIL fixtures the eleven Ulster clubs return to action this week with five games to be played in the next six weeks. Queens Uni brought forward their game against Sunday's Well in Div 2A from the 5th Nov to the 22nd October with the students recording a 22 - 15 win in Cork. This block of fixtures before Christmas will go a long way in determining the ambitions of the Ulster clubs this season.
Both Ballymena and Ballynahinch will be looking to consolidate their position in the top four in Div 1B before the Christmas break.
In Section two: Banbridge, Armagh and Rainey OB top Div 2A, 2B, and 2C. Queens are 4th in Div 2A with fellow Belfast sides Malone and Belfast Harlequins in 8th and 9th place in urgent need of league points. In Div 2B Dungannon are in 3rd place as they look to finish in the top four with City of Derry still without a win in 10th place.
In Div 2C Bangor slipped to 6th place after suffering a heavy 44 - 17 defeat in a rearranged game at Tullamore last weekend.
In the Ulster Bank All Ireland Junior Cup we have eight first round matches this weekend with four teams representing each province. Leinster sides have dominated this tournament in the last six years with the last Ulster winners coming from the all Ulster final between Armagh and City of Derry in 2010 when City of Derry won 19 - 17. Ulster teams have contested the last three finals with Instonians, Bangor and Clogher Valley all coming up short against their Leinster opponents.
Current holders Enniscorthy from Leinster have contested three of the last four finals winning two. They will remain firm favourites to make it a third this season.
Three of the four Ulster representatives Portadown, Instonians and Ballyclare are also competing to make it through the knock out rounds of the Millar McCall Wylie Junior Cup on Sat 5th and 26th November to the Junior Cup Final on Tuesday the 13th December.
We also have four 1st round fixtures in the Gordon West Cup with current holders Lurgan welcoming Div 3 league leaders Ballymoney to Pollack Park in the tie of the round. Both these sides have already met at this venue in the league with Ballymoney running out 21 - 11 winners.
ULSTER BANK ALL IRELAND LEAGUE
DIV 1A
Lansdowne (4) v Clontarf (5). Played Friday 28.10.16. Kick off 7.30pm
Garryowen (6) v Dublin Uni (2)
Old Belvedere (1) v Cork Constitution (7)
Terenure College (10) v St Mary's College (8)
Young Munster (3) v UCD (9)
DIV 1B
Ballynahinch (5) v Naas (6)
Dolphin (9) v Buccaneers (2)
Old Wesley (4) v Galwegians (7)
UCC (8) v Shannon (10)
UL Bohemians (1) v Ballymena (3)
Ballynahinch v Naas
Injuries and unavailability of players has had an impact on the ambitions of Ballynahinch to return to Div 1A next season. Two defeats on the road at leaders UL Bohemians and Old Wesley before the break leave the Ballymacarn Park side in 5th place two points adrift of 3rd/4th place Ballymena and Old Wesley. Once again Head coach Derek Suffern and his assistants Chris Parker and Adam Craig will be looking to use the next block of five AIL games to position their team in the top four going into the new year. Despite the unavailability of their Ulster players in the games against Shannon and Old Wesley there is talent in abundance coming through from the clubs second and third xv with several of these players starting for the 1st xv in recent weeks.
Director of Rugby Ronnie Duncan puts this down to the role Club Captain Michael Graham and vice captains James Simpson and Davy Nicholson have played along with the positive role, players including James McBriar and Davy Harris have had on increasing numbers at weekly training sessions from the 1st/2nds and 3rd xv.
There is a desire within the coaching staff to see the club develop a playing squad of 40+ players to provide the strength in depth for the club to compete in Div 1A of the All Ireland League.
For this week Ulster have released 10 players including Jonny 'Mo' Simpson, Jonny Murphy, John Donnan, Angus Lloyd, Sam Windsor, Jacob Stockdale, Johnny McPhillips, David Busby and Conor Joyce. The potential involvement of players against Munster on Friday night will also delay selection for Saturday against Naas.
Injury rules out Lorcan Dow, Peter Browne, Peter Nelson, Ross Carlisle, Andy Harper, Ollie Brown, Aaron Hall and James Simpson. Late fitness test will be carried out on full back Steve McCauley.
Aaron Cairns is being rested by Ulster after playing in British & Irish Cup with Gareth Gill involved with Ireland Rugby league Squad. Prop Stuart Orr is unavailable this week with fellow Prop Kelvin Hamilton returning to NZ next week. Blane McIIroy is continuing his recovery from ACL surgery with Richard Reaney due to undergo surgery for a shoulder injury.
Ballynahinch squad to be selected from Johnny Simpson, Jonny Murphy, Craig Trenier, John Donnan, Kenny Morton/Stuart Evans, Keith Dickson/Conor Joyce, Conor Phillips (Returns after being involved in Ireland Rugby league squad), Michael Graham (Captain), Angus Lloyd, Sam Windsor, David Nicholson, Stuart Morrow, Jordan Gratton, Chris Quinn/David Busby, Steve McCauley/Johnny McPhillips. Jacob Stockdale, Jonny Blair, Joe Roe. Chris Orr.
Outside of the 1st xv squad this weekend Ballynahinch have a potential squad including Jerry Cronin, Chris Stevenson, Andy Weir, Andy Simpson, Callum Irvine, Brian Howard, Chris Gibson, James McBriar, Will Stewart, Aaron Ferris, Tom Stapley and Callum McLaughlin.
With three of the successful Ulster under 19 squad signing for Ballynahinch this season including Aaron Hall, Tom Stapley and Ollie Brown this will only further strengthen the Ballynahinch playing squad.
Former Wallace High prop Jonny Blair excelled last season for the 1st xv in his first season out of school. He has been joined by another Wallace High prop Andy Weir who is also showing a lot of potential. Both Tom Stapley and Callum McLaughlin have demonstrated their talent in the 50 - 0 win over Portadown 1st xv last week as an exciting centre pairing.
Ballynahinch retained their grip on the First Trust Senior Cup as they progressed through to the last four where they will play neighbours Banbridge as they chase a third successive Cup title.
Ballymena v UL Bohemians
The Eaton Park side face the acid test against league leaders UL Bohs on their Limerick 4G pitch this weekend. Ulster neighbours Ballynahinch travelled to this venue on the 24th September and were swept aside in a 38 - 22 loss. Can Ballymena stem the flow of the Limerick side who have 19 from 20 points after their opening four AIL games. The task for Head coach Andy Graham and his players will be challenging with only three players released by Ulster. Despite the unavailability of their Ulster players for the home match with Dolphin three weeks ago Ballymena put in a strong second half display to win 24 - 16.
The only Ulster players released are David Shanahan, Adam McBurney and Stephen Mulholland along with Conor Smyth.
Injury rules out Ulster players: Mark Best, Michael Lagan, Alan O'Connor, Conall Boomer, Ross Kane, Kieran Treadwell and Matty Rea.
Glenn Baillie joins the injured list along with number 8 James Gallagher, prop Chris Allen, backs Matthew Norris and Josh McIIroy. Paddy James is unavailable along with front row forwards Bryan Young, Andrew Ferguson, Adrian Kirkpatrick and James Taggart.
Ballymena squad for Limerick: Houston Bonner/James Carson, Adam McBurney, Chris Cundell, David Whann (Captain), Conor Smyth, Mark Foster, Tony McGuinness, Stephen Mulholland, David Shanahan, John Creighton, Jonny Rossborough, Marty Irwin, Callum Patterson, Jordan Foster, Rodger McBurney, James Carson/Houston Bonner, Joe Thompson, Andrew Cundell, James Beattie and Richie McMaster.
Richie McMaster faces a late fitness after being ill this week. One of the most difficult selection decisions was not starting James Beattie after he scored two tries against Dolphin. Again the coach is looking forward to the exciting options he will have during the game using Callum Patterson, Marty Irwin and James Beattie.
For Head coach Andy Graham it has been a case of focusing on the next game. The two week break from AIL action enabled players carrying knocks to be rested. He was also pleased with the response to training with 30/35 players in attendance during this period. There was also the opportunity to give game time to players in the Conference league games against Omagh and Ballyclare.
DIV 2A
Highfield (5) v Sunday's Well (6). Played Friday 28.10.16. Kick off 7.30pm
Banbridge (1) v Belfast Harlequins (9)
Cashel RFC (10) v Blackrock College (3)
Malone (8) v Nenagh Ormond (2)
Queens Uni (4) v Galway Corinthians (7)
Banbridge v Belfast Harlequins
Div 2A leaders Banbridge are expecting another tough game as they host Ulster neighbours Belfast Harlequins at Rifle Park in an Ulster derby. Head coach Daniel Soper is aware Quins have a lot of quality players in their squad with this game being the first of five games in six weeks before the Xmas break.
With the clubs second xv performing well selection will be finalised on Thursday night with a few tight calls having to be made.
Ulster Academy out half Andrew Magrath will miss out after undergoing surgery on a thumb injury.
The coach is aware that this time last year Banbridge were in a similar position in the league and lost to Skerries and drew with Thomond with both these teams relegated. The players are focused on lifting their performance over the next month and learning from the experiences of last year.
Banbridge have continued their impressive start to the season by progressing to the last four of the First Trust Senior Cup where they will play near neighbours and current holders Ballynahinch.
Belfast Harlequins assistant coach Keith Pyper and his players are looking forward to this Ulster derby. One win from their opening four AIL games is not the form expected from the Deramore side who have progressed through to the last four of the First Trust Senior Cup to play Armagh . Both teams know each other well. The attitude of the players has been excellent in training over the last couple of weeks in preparation for this match. Selection will be finalised tonight after a few fitness tests.
Malone v Nenagh Ormond
Head coach Paddy Armstrong has a number of injuries affecting his squad for this week against Nenagh. He has been pleased with the players that have come in and done well in the two matches against Banbridge. He is waiting to hear on Thursday about the availability of several injured players for Saturday before finalising his match day squad.
Training has gone very well over the last two weeks with good numbers in attendance. The players remain positive with the squad looking forward to the next group of games in the AIL and the challenges it brings.
Queens Uni v Galway Corinthians
Head coach Bob Young was delighted to get the win at Sunday's Well last week. His team played some good rugby, but didn't kill off the game early enough that left a bit of a nervy finish.
He is aware of the threats Corinthians pose and will be looking to his players to perform to get the desired result.
Queens run in to Xmas is reasonably favourable after travelling to play Munster teams in three of their first five games. The students have three home games and a visit to Deramore to play Belfast Harlequins which gives the squad the opportunity to build momentum and try and put themselves in a strong league position before Xmas. That being said it is such a competitive league you can't just turn up expecting a result.
Back row Marcus Rea picked up an injury in the first play of last weeks game that will rule him out. Fellow Ulster players including Captain Alex Thompson, Zac McCall, Nick Timoney and Jonny Stewart are expected to be involved with Ulster winger Robert Lyttle also expected to make his first appearance of the season for Queens.
DIV 2B
City of Derry (10) v Wanderers (5)
Dungannon (3) v Greystones (2)
MU Barnhall (7) v Thomond (9)
Old Crescent (4) v Bective Rangers (8)
Skerries (6) v Armagh (1)
City of Derry v Wanderers
The Judges Road side were left reeling after their shock 71 - 3 defeat at Greystones three weeks ago. Such was the player shortage, City of Derry were only able to select 19 players for the fixture. Coach Richard McCarter is hoping the players can put this performance behind them as they welcome Wanderers from Dublin to the North West this week.
Injuries rule out Stephen Corr, John Burns, Stuart Simpson Eoin Ferry and William McCleery with players Matthew Kilgore and Simon Logue unavailable.
The coach will have David Funston available for selection this week.
City of Derry squad: Ross Harkin, Cathal Gregan, Sam Duffy, Chris Cooper, Gerard Doherty, Craig Huey, Richard Baird, Adam Bratton, ben barbour, Richard McCarter, Ian Bratton, David Funston, David Graham, Josh lewis, Neil Burns, David Devine, Tiernan Thorton with the remaining three replacements finalised after training tonight.
The Derry coach is confident that the starting xv this week can get a result that will build confidence within the squad. He is of the impression that there is a lot of winable games from the next block of five fixtures that can see City of Derry moving up the table.
Dungannon v Greystones
Head coach Andrew Hughes is aware his team face a tough challenge at home to Greystones this week with five AIL fixtures coming up over the next six weeks before the Xmas break. The key to how successful the team are over the next six weeks is how the coaches manage injuries. With so many players carrying knocks the past two weeks have been pretty much a recovery period.
Greystones have certainly put down a marker with their performances in the AIL. They are one of the few teams that have the players to play both a tight and an open game effectively. After narrowly missing out on promotion last season Greystones will believe this is their year.
The weekend game is an easy one to prepare for. We know if we don't perform we will lose. The challenge for the players is to maintain their concentration levels throughout the 80 minutes. He is concerned the team are still making silly mistakes and leaking cheap points. If the team can improve in this area they will get more reward for their efforts.
Players including Peter Doran, Seamus Mallon, Marcus Mulgrew and Andrew Mills remain on the injured list with Steven Sinnamon, Mark Riddell, Peter Cashel and Mark Faloon all unavailable. Jake Finlay faces a late fitness test.
Armagh v Skerries
The home form of Armagh this season in the AIL has improved on previous seasons as illustrated by the teams convincing 52 - 17 win over MU Barnhall in their last game before the break with the team progressing through to the last four of the First Trust Senior Cup where they will play Belfast Harlequins. No doubt the focus for Head coach Alex McCloy will be to take it one game at a time. The away fixture against 2nd place Greystones on the 26th November will show how far this Armagh squad under Captain Ali Birch have progressed this season.
DIV 2C
Seapoint (5) v Boyne (8). Played Friday 28.10.16. Kick off 8pm
Bangor (6) v Midleton (3)
Navan RFC (4) v Bruff (9)
Sligo (7) v Rainey OB (1)
Tullamore (2) v Kanturk (10)
Bangor v Midleton
1st xv Manager Ricky Armstrong was disappointed with the performance of the team at Tullamore last week when they lost 44 - 17 with pre match preparations being disrupted by travel set backs.
The playing squad had experienced a sickness bug last week with players including Ali Lockhart and Desi Fusco struggling to perform on Sat. Former Captain Jamie Clegg had to withdraw late on Friday night with key prop James Leary unavailable.
Despite all those factors the team under performed massively at Tullamore. Again a slow start let the opposition get ahead in the first 20 minutes with the Bangor side having to chase the game. It was a disappointing afternoon and showed how important it is to be at the top of your game every week if you want to get a result. The Bangor players were hugely under power and beaten by a side who wanted the win more.
For this week at home to Midleton James Leary returns to the front row alongside Conor Pyper and Captain Philip Whyte. Craig Burton is joined in the second row by the returning Darren Kelly. Jamie Clegg faces a late fitness test on his calf if he is to join Mike Apsley and David Bradford in the back row.
Ali Lockhart should start at scrum half alongside Ross McCloskey with Lewis Sampson partnering Phil Broderick in the centre. Rob Gamble moves to the wing along with Mark Widdowson. Mike Weir the man who can play anywhere in the team moves from back row to full back this week. An enigma he is equally comfortable at full back where he played all his rugby through school and in his first two years at Bangor. Head coach Jason Morgan is away on a Halloween tour with Bangor Grammar School and will miss the game this weekend.
Charlie Clegg and Andrew Jackson will provide front row cover and join David Caughey, Keith Rosson, Gareth Wright and either Adam McCusker/Desi Fusco on the bench.
Other good news for Bangor is the return of Ryan Latimer for the second xv in their game at Ballyclare tonight after missing most of last season with an injury. He will be a huge addition to the squad.
Rainey OB v Sligo
Head coach John Andrew's was delighted with his teams performance in their 20 - 11 defeat at Ballynahinch in the First Trust Senior Cup. Poor defending at times in the second half forced the team into giving away penalties after a cracking first half performance cost his side a win. Ballynahinch are a good side and he was pleased with the response of his players.
For the trip to Sligo Rainey are near full strength with Tim Barker unavailable due to family commitments this week. Ulster Academy prop Tommy O'Hagan returns to the squad after playing for the Ulster A side in the British & Irish Cup.
Both the coaches and players are looking forward to the trip to Sligo as the Magherfelt side look to extend their lead at the top of Div 2C.
ULSTER BANK ALL IRELAND JUNIOR CUP 1ST ROUND
League positions of teams in their province this season.
Ulster: Portadown(2) Instonians (4) Ballyclare (5) Clogher Valley (9). 10 teams in league. Play total 18 games
Leinster: Enniscorthy (2) DLSP (3) Ashbourne (5) Gorey RFC (7). 8 teams in league. Play total 14 games
Munster: Clonmel (1) Bandon (7) Galbally (8) Richmond (9). 14 teams in league. Play total 13 games
Connacht: Ballina (1) Monivea (5) Westport (6) NUI Galway (8). 8 teams in league. Play total 14 games.
Clonmel (Munster) v DLSP (Leinster)
Enniscorthy RFC (Leinster) v NUI Galway (Connacht)
Gorey RFC (Leinster) v Galbally (Munster)
Instonians (Ulster) v Bandon (Munster)
Monivea (Connacht) v Clogher Valley (Ulster)
Portadown (Ulster) v Ballina (Connacht)
Richmond (Munster) v Ballyclare (Ulster)
Westport (Connacht) v Ashbourne (Leinster)
Instonians v Bandon
The Shawsbridge side reached the 2015/16 Final in their first season competing in the AIL Junior Cup only to lose out to favourites Enniscorthy 23 - 7. Can this Instonians squad go one better this season. They showed real character at home last week after going down to 14 players to defeat Clogher Valley 16 - 7. Director of rugby William Leacock described it as a massive win for his players on Sat. He thought his team played some good rugby in the first half but weren't clinical enough with the chances they created. After going 9 - 0 nil up playing against the wind the team thought they were in a good position. However going down to 14 players after 3 minutes of the second half with a red card and then conceding a penalty try when they went down to 13 players following a yellow card changed all that.
The leadership of the experienced second row Mike Blackwood and scrum half Matthew Keane really came through and the team were excellent in the second half along with Andrew McGregor at full back. Ben Finlay scored a fine solo try which gave the players some breathing space with the team showing real heart to get the win.
Along with Head coach Mark McDowell the coaching staff are hoping that over the next month they will continue to see injured players returning to the pitch for the next round of league games. Long term injuries to Alan and Robert Whitten, David Scott, Rory McCurry, Josh Cregan, Blair Robinson, Ally Andress and Harry Gallagher continue to impact on the squad.
Inst are hoping to have Erin Wagner, Josh Lyness, Zach Finlay and Mark Keane added to the squad for game against Bandon on Saturday with the coaches and players taking it one game at a time. Bandon will bring the usual Munster physicality and are coming of the back of a 21 - 6 Junior Cup win over league leaders Clonmel last week.
Clogher Valley v Monivea
The Fivemiletown side have contested the last four semi finals reaching the 2013/14 Final before losing out to Enniscorthy 10 - 9. This is the one competition in Junior rugby the County Tyrone side have not won. This season we have witnessed the side still chasing their first win of the 2016/17 season. Can a trip to Connacht revive their fortunes.
Clogher Valley have selected a squad of 21 with late fitness tests reuired on prop Richard Primrose and back row David Sharkey.
1 - 21 Philip Hopper, Kyle Cobane (Captain), Richard Primrose, Michael Treanor, Eugene McKenna, Ian Mulligan, Nathan Orr, Ryan Wilson, Neil Trotter, Fleming Agnew, Clive Donaldson, Andy Breen, Eamon Whyte, Joshua Coulter, Philip Wilson, Alex McKeown, David Sharkey, Ronan McAleer, Mark Ellis, Matthew Keyes, Mark McKenna.
Toby McAlpine is not available with Allister Trenier joining PC Falconer and Philip Moore on the injured list.
Both the coaches Glen Kyle and Davy Black along with the players were disappointed the team were not able to win their league game at Instonians last Sat.
Portadown v Ballina
Interesting game this. Ballina have made a strong start to their league season as they sit top of Junior 1 in Connacht with five wins. They have scored 175 points and conceded 43 points and are three points clear of former AIL club Connemara in the race for the league title.
Portadown were top of the Ulster Rugby Championship Div 1 up until the weekend when they were deposed by new leaders Enniskillen.
Both Dean Hardy and Andrew Chambers return to the Portadown team this weekend after injury with Lee Bickers and Brian Forrestal missing out through injury. Mark Neilly and Ryan Calvert are added to the bench replacements.
Ballyclare v Richmond
The focus for the Ballyclare coaches and players is always the next game with their attention on the All Ireland Junior Cup this weekend. Ultimately the team is judged on their final league position and that is their top priority, but it is good to have other competitions to go and play in like the Towns Cup, Junior Cup and now the All Ireland Junior Cup.
Head coach Mike McKeever views this weekend as a great occasion for the players and everyone involved in Ballyclare rugby club with the players wanting to give a good account of themselves. For the like of his 18 year old hooker Dean Jones this is an excellent opportunity in his first year out of school but also for the older wise heads of 38 year old Willie Logan and Collie Morrow who show age is only a number and remains young at heart and full of enthusiasm and passion for their club. To get the opportunity to represent their club in an All Ireland competition is wonderful and they will certainly be going to win especially under the leadership of Captain Gary Weatherup.
For this weekend Grant Barclay remains at lock but Ballyclare will potentially be without Rab Boyd due to his wife giving birth to their first child.
Ballyclare have a versatile and extended squad of players they have already made use of so far this season which is excellent for providing opportunities and creating senior depth in the playing squad. It also has its challenges when it comes to selection meetings when more players are returning from injury/work/stag and weddings each week. The fortunate position this week is that the team are allowed five bench replacements with the coaches being able to include players like Ross Johnston, Craig Smith and Matthew Robson to provide a dynamic bench of impact players.
RIVER ROCK TOWNS CUP QUALIFYING ROUND
Dungannon seconds v Ballymena seconds. Played Thursday 27.10.16. Kick off 7.45pm
GORDON WEST CUP 1ST ROUND
Holywood v Strabane
Letterkenny v Virginia
Lurgan v Ballymoney
Newry v Ophir
After a two week break from AIL fixtures the eleven Ulster clubs return to action this week with five games to be played in the next six weeks. Queens Uni brought forward their game against Sunday's Well in Div 2A from the 5th Nov to the 22nd October with the students recording a 22 - 15 win in Cork. This block of fixtures before Christmas will go a long way in determining the ambitions of the Ulster clubs this season.
Both Ballymena and Ballynahinch will be looking to consolidate their position in the top four in Div 1B before the Christmas break.
In Section two: Banbridge, Armagh and Rainey OB top Div 2A, 2B, and 2C. Queens are 4th in Div 2A with fellow Belfast sides Malone and Belfast Harlequins in 8th and 9th place in urgent need of league points. In Div 2B Dungannon are in 3rd place as they look to finish in the top four with City of Derry still without a win in 10th place.
In Div 2C Bangor slipped to 6th place after suffering a heavy 44 - 17 defeat in a rearranged game at Tullamore last weekend.
In the Ulster Bank All Ireland Junior Cup we have eight first round matches this weekend with four teams representing each province. Leinster sides have dominated this tournament in the last six years with the last Ulster winners coming from the all Ulster final between Armagh and City of Derry in 2010 when City of Derry won 19 - 17. Ulster teams have contested the last three finals with Instonians, Bangor and Clogher Valley all coming up short against their Leinster opponents.
Current holders Enniscorthy from Leinster have contested three of the last four finals winning two. They will remain firm favourites to make it a third this season.
Three of the four Ulster representatives Portadown, Instonians and Ballyclare are also competing to make it through the knock out rounds of the Millar McCall Wylie Junior Cup on Sat 5th and 26th November to the Junior Cup Final on Tuesday the 13th December.
We also have four 1st round fixtures in the Gordon West Cup with current holders Lurgan welcoming Div 3 league leaders Ballymoney to Pollack Park in the tie of the round. Both these sides have already met at this venue in the league with Ballymoney running out 21 - 11 winners.
ULSTER BANK ALL IRELAND LEAGUE
DIV 1A
Lansdowne (4) v Clontarf (5). Played Friday 28.10.16. Kick off 7.30pm
Garryowen (6) v Dublin Uni (2)
Old Belvedere (1) v Cork Constitution (7)
Terenure College (10) v St Mary's College (8)
Young Munster (3) v UCD (9)
DIV 1B
Ballynahinch (5) v Naas (6)
Dolphin (9) v Buccaneers (2)
Old Wesley (4) v Galwegians (7)
UCC (8) v Shannon (10)
UL Bohemians (1) v Ballymena (3)
Ballynahinch v Naas
Injuries and unavailability of players has had an impact on the ambitions of Ballynahinch to return to Div 1A next season. Two defeats on the road at leaders UL Bohemians and Old Wesley before the break leave the Ballymacarn Park side in 5th place two points adrift of 3rd/4th place Ballymena and Old Wesley. Once again Head coach Derek Suffern and his assistants Chris Parker and Adam Craig will be looking to use the next block of five AIL games to position their team in the top four going into the new year. Despite the unavailability of their Ulster players in the games against Shannon and Old Wesley there is talent in abundance coming through from the clubs second and third xv with several of these players starting for the 1st xv in recent weeks.
Director of Rugby Ronnie Duncan puts this down to the role Club Captain Michael Graham and vice captains James Simpson and Davy Nicholson have played along with the positive role, players including James McBriar and Davy Harris have had on increasing numbers at weekly training sessions from the 1st/2nds and 3rd xv.
There is a desire within the coaching staff to see the club develop a playing squad of 40+ players to provide the strength in depth for the club to compete in Div 1A of the All Ireland League.
For this week Ulster have released 10 players including Jonny 'Mo' Simpson, Jonny Murphy, John Donnan, Angus Lloyd, Sam Windsor, Jacob Stockdale, Johnny McPhillips, David Busby and Conor Joyce. The potential involvement of players against Munster on Friday night will also delay selection for Saturday against Naas.
Injury rules out Lorcan Dow, Peter Browne, Peter Nelson, Ross Carlisle, Andy Harper, Ollie Brown, Aaron Hall and James Simpson. Late fitness test will be carried out on full back Steve McCauley.
Aaron Cairns is being rested by Ulster after playing in British & Irish Cup with Gareth Gill involved with Ireland Rugby league Squad. Prop Stuart Orr is unavailable this week with fellow Prop Kelvin Hamilton returning to NZ next week. Blane McIIroy is continuing his recovery from ACL surgery with Richard Reaney due to undergo surgery for a shoulder injury.
Ballynahinch squad to be selected from Johnny Simpson, Jonny Murphy, Craig Trenier, John Donnan, Kenny Morton/Stuart Evans, Keith Dickson/Conor Joyce, Conor Phillips (Returns after being involved in Ireland Rugby league squad), Michael Graham (Captain), Angus Lloyd, Sam Windsor, David Nicholson, Stuart Morrow, Jordan Gratton, Chris Quinn/David Busby, Steve McCauley/Johnny McPhillips. Jacob Stockdale, Jonny Blair, Joe Roe. Chris Orr.
Outside of the 1st xv squad this weekend Ballynahinch have a potential squad including Jerry Cronin, Chris Stevenson, Andy Weir, Andy Simpson, Callum Irvine, Brian Howard, Chris Gibson, James McBriar, Will Stewart, Aaron Ferris, Tom Stapley and Callum McLaughlin.
With three of the successful Ulster under 19 squad signing for Ballynahinch this season including Aaron Hall, Tom Stapley and Ollie Brown this will only further strengthen the Ballynahinch playing squad.
Former Wallace High prop Jonny Blair excelled last season for the 1st xv in his first season out of school. He has been joined by another Wallace High prop Andy Weir who is also showing a lot of potential. Both Tom Stapley and Callum McLaughlin have demonstrated their talent in the 50 - 0 win over Portadown 1st xv last week as an exciting centre pairing.
Ballynahinch retained their grip on the First Trust Senior Cup as they progressed through to the last four where they will play neighbours Banbridge as they chase a third successive Cup title.
Ballymena v UL Bohemians
The Eaton Park side face the acid test against league leaders UL Bohs on their Limerick 4G pitch this weekend. Ulster neighbours Ballynahinch travelled to this venue on the 24th September and were swept aside in a 38 - 22 loss. Can Ballymena stem the flow of the Limerick side who have 19 from 20 points after their opening four AIL games. The task for Head coach Andy Graham and his players will be challenging with only three players released by Ulster. Despite the unavailability of their Ulster players for the home match with Dolphin three weeks ago Ballymena put in a strong second half display to win 24 - 16.
The only Ulster players released are David Shanahan, Adam McBurney and Stephen Mulholland along with Conor Smyth.
Injury rules out Ulster players: Mark Best, Michael Lagan, Alan O'Connor, Conall Boomer, Ross Kane, Kieran Treadwell and Matty Rea.
Glenn Baillie joins the injured list along with number 8 James Gallagher, prop Chris Allen, backs Matthew Norris and Josh McIIroy. Paddy James is unavailable along with front row forwards Bryan Young, Andrew Ferguson, Adrian Kirkpatrick and James Taggart.
Ballymena squad for Limerick: Houston Bonner/James Carson, Adam McBurney, Chris Cundell, David Whann (Captain), Conor Smyth, Mark Foster, Tony McGuinness, Stephen Mulholland, David Shanahan, John Creighton, Jonny Rossborough, Marty Irwin, Callum Patterson, Jordan Foster, Rodger McBurney, James Carson/Houston Bonner, Joe Thompson, Andrew Cundell, James Beattie and Richie McMaster.
Richie McMaster faces a late fitness after being ill this week. One of the most difficult selection decisions was not starting James Beattie after he scored two tries against Dolphin. Again the coach is looking forward to the exciting options he will have during the game using Callum Patterson, Marty Irwin and James Beattie.
For Head coach Andy Graham it has been a case of focusing on the next game. The two week break from AIL action enabled players carrying knocks to be rested. He was also pleased with the response to training with 30/35 players in attendance during this period. There was also the opportunity to give game time to players in the Conference league games against Omagh and Ballyclare.
DIV 2A
Highfield (5) v Sunday's Well (6). Played Friday 28.10.16. Kick off 7.30pm
Banbridge (1) v Belfast Harlequins (9)
Cashel RFC (10) v Blackrock College (3)
Malone (8) v Nenagh Ormond (2)
Queens Uni (4) v Galway Corinthians (7)
Banbridge v Belfast Harlequins
Div 2A leaders Banbridge are expecting another tough game as they host Ulster neighbours Belfast Harlequins at Rifle Park in an Ulster derby. Head coach Daniel Soper is aware Quins have a lot of quality players in their squad with this game being the first of five games in six weeks before the Xmas break.
With the clubs second xv performing well selection will be finalised on Thursday night with a few tight calls having to be made.
Ulster Academy out half Andrew Magrath will miss out after undergoing surgery on a thumb injury.
The coach is aware that this time last year Banbridge were in a similar position in the league and lost to Skerries and drew with Thomond with both these teams relegated. The players are focused on lifting their performance over the next month and learning from the experiences of last year.
Banbridge have continued their impressive start to the season by progressing to the last four of the First Trust Senior Cup where they will play near neighbours and current holders Ballynahinch.
Belfast Harlequins assistant coach Keith Pyper and his players are looking forward to this Ulster derby. One win from their opening four AIL games is not the form expected from the Deramore side who have progressed through to the last four of the First Trust Senior Cup to play Armagh . Both teams know each other well. The attitude of the players has been excellent in training over the last couple of weeks in preparation for this match. Selection will be finalised tonight after a few fitness tests.
Malone v Nenagh Ormond
Head coach Paddy Armstrong has a number of injuries affecting his squad for this week against Nenagh. He has been pleased with the players that have come in and done well in the two matches against Banbridge. He is waiting to hear on Thursday about the availability of several injured players for Saturday before finalising his match day squad.
Training has gone very well over the last two weeks with good numbers in attendance. The players remain positive with the squad looking forward to the next group of games in the AIL and the challenges it brings.
Queens Uni v Galway Corinthians
Head coach Bob Young was delighted to get the win at Sunday's Well last week. His team played some good rugby, but didn't kill off the game early enough that left a bit of a nervy finish.
He is aware of the threats Corinthians pose and will be looking to his players to perform to get the desired result.
Queens run in to Xmas is reasonably favourable after travelling to play Munster teams in three of their first five games. The students have three home games and a visit to Deramore to play Belfast Harlequins which gives the squad the opportunity to build momentum and try and put themselves in a strong league position before Xmas. That being said it is such a competitive league you can't just turn up expecting a result.
Back row Marcus Rea picked up an injury in the first play of last weeks game that will rule him out. Fellow Ulster players including Captain Alex Thompson, Zac McCall, Nick Timoney and Jonny Stewart are expected to be involved with Ulster winger Robert Lyttle also expected to make his first appearance of the season for Queens.
DIV 2B
City of Derry (10) v Wanderers (5)
Dungannon (3) v Greystones (2)
MU Barnhall (7) v Thomond (9)
Old Crescent (4) v Bective Rangers (8)
Skerries (6) v Armagh (1)
City of Derry v Wanderers
The Judges Road side were left reeling after their shock 71 - 3 defeat at Greystones three weeks ago. Such was the player shortage, City of Derry were only able to select 19 players for the fixture. Coach Richard McCarter is hoping the players can put this performance behind them as they welcome Wanderers from Dublin to the North West this week.
Injuries rule out Stephen Corr, John Burns, Stuart Simpson Eoin Ferry and William McCleery with players Matthew Kilgore and Simon Logue unavailable.
The coach will have David Funston available for selection this week.
City of Derry squad: Ross Harkin, Cathal Gregan, Sam Duffy, Chris Cooper, Gerard Doherty, Craig Huey, Richard Baird, Adam Bratton, ben barbour, Richard McCarter, Ian Bratton, David Funston, David Graham, Josh lewis, Neil Burns, David Devine, Tiernan Thorton with the remaining three replacements finalised after training tonight.
The Derry coach is confident that the starting xv this week can get a result that will build confidence within the squad. He is of the impression that there is a lot of winable games from the next block of five fixtures that can see City of Derry moving up the table.
Dungannon v Greystones
Head coach Andrew Hughes is aware his team face a tough challenge at home to Greystones this week with five AIL fixtures coming up over the next six weeks before the Xmas break. The key to how successful the team are over the next six weeks is how the coaches manage injuries. With so many players carrying knocks the past two weeks have been pretty much a recovery period.
Greystones have certainly put down a marker with their performances in the AIL. They are one of the few teams that have the players to play both a tight and an open game effectively. After narrowly missing out on promotion last season Greystones will believe this is their year.
The weekend game is an easy one to prepare for. We know if we don't perform we will lose. The challenge for the players is to maintain their concentration levels throughout the 80 minutes. He is concerned the team are still making silly mistakes and leaking cheap points. If the team can improve in this area they will get more reward for their efforts.
Players including Peter Doran, Seamus Mallon, Marcus Mulgrew and Andrew Mills remain on the injured list with Steven Sinnamon, Mark Riddell, Peter Cashel and Mark Faloon all unavailable. Jake Finlay faces a late fitness test.
Armagh v Skerries
The home form of Armagh this season in the AIL has improved on previous seasons as illustrated by the teams convincing 52 - 17 win over MU Barnhall in their last game before the break with the team progressing through to the last four of the First Trust Senior Cup where they will play Belfast Harlequins. No doubt the focus for Head coach Alex McCloy will be to take it one game at a time. The away fixture against 2nd place Greystones on the 26th November will show how far this Armagh squad under Captain Ali Birch have progressed this season.
DIV 2C
Seapoint (5) v Boyne (8). Played Friday 28.10.16. Kick off 8pm
Bangor (6) v Midleton (3)
Navan RFC (4) v Bruff (9)
Sligo (7) v Rainey OB (1)
Tullamore (2) v Kanturk (10)
Bangor v Midleton
1st xv Manager Ricky Armstrong was disappointed with the performance of the team at Tullamore last week when they lost 44 - 17 with pre match preparations being disrupted by travel set backs.
The playing squad had experienced a sickness bug last week with players including Ali Lockhart and Desi Fusco struggling to perform on Sat. Former Captain Jamie Clegg had to withdraw late on Friday night with key prop James Leary unavailable.
Despite all those factors the team under performed massively at Tullamore. Again a slow start let the opposition get ahead in the first 20 minutes with the Bangor side having to chase the game. It was a disappointing afternoon and showed how important it is to be at the top of your game every week if you want to get a result. The Bangor players were hugely under power and beaten by a side who wanted the win more.
For this week at home to Midleton James Leary returns to the front row alongside Conor Pyper and Captain Philip Whyte. Craig Burton is joined in the second row by the returning Darren Kelly. Jamie Clegg faces a late fitness test on his calf if he is to join Mike Apsley and David Bradford in the back row.
Ali Lockhart should start at scrum half alongside Ross McCloskey with Lewis Sampson partnering Phil Broderick in the centre. Rob Gamble moves to the wing along with Mark Widdowson. Mike Weir the man who can play anywhere in the team moves from back row to full back this week. An enigma he is equally comfortable at full back where he played all his rugby through school and in his first two years at Bangor. Head coach Jason Morgan is away on a Halloween tour with Bangor Grammar School and will miss the game this weekend.
Charlie Clegg and Andrew Jackson will provide front row cover and join David Caughey, Keith Rosson, Gareth Wright and either Adam McCusker/Desi Fusco on the bench.
Other good news for Bangor is the return of Ryan Latimer for the second xv in their game at Ballyclare tonight after missing most of last season with an injury. He will be a huge addition to the squad.
Rainey OB v Sligo
Head coach John Andrew's was delighted with his teams performance in their 20 - 11 defeat at Ballynahinch in the First Trust Senior Cup. Poor defending at times in the second half forced the team into giving away penalties after a cracking first half performance cost his side a win. Ballynahinch are a good side and he was pleased with the response of his players.
For the trip to Sligo Rainey are near full strength with Tim Barker unavailable due to family commitments this week. Ulster Academy prop Tommy O'Hagan returns to the squad after playing for the Ulster A side in the British & Irish Cup.
Both the coaches and players are looking forward to the trip to Sligo as the Magherfelt side look to extend their lead at the top of Div 2C.
ULSTER BANK ALL IRELAND JUNIOR CUP 1ST ROUND
League positions of teams in their province this season.
Ulster: Portadown(2) Instonians (4) Ballyclare (5) Clogher Valley (9). 10 teams in league. Play total 18 games
Leinster: Enniscorthy (2) DLSP (3) Ashbourne (5) Gorey RFC (7). 8 teams in league. Play total 14 games
Munster: Clonmel (1) Bandon (7) Galbally (8) Richmond (9). 14 teams in league. Play total 13 games
Connacht: Ballina (1) Monivea (5) Westport (6) NUI Galway (8). 8 teams in league. Play total 14 games.
Clonmel (Munster) v DLSP (Leinster)
Enniscorthy RFC (Leinster) v NUI Galway (Connacht)
Gorey RFC (Leinster) v Galbally (Munster)
Instonians (Ulster) v Bandon (Munster)
Monivea (Connacht) v Clogher Valley (Ulster)
Portadown (Ulster) v Ballina (Connacht)
Richmond (Munster) v Ballyclare (Ulster)
Westport (Connacht) v Ashbourne (Leinster)
Instonians v Bandon
The Shawsbridge side reached the 2015/16 Final in their first season competing in the AIL Junior Cup only to lose out to favourites Enniscorthy 23 - 7. Can this Instonians squad go one better this season. They showed real character at home last week after going down to 14 players to defeat Clogher Valley 16 - 7. Director of rugby William Leacock described it as a massive win for his players on Sat. He thought his team played some good rugby in the first half but weren't clinical enough with the chances they created. After going 9 - 0 nil up playing against the wind the team thought they were in a good position. However going down to 14 players after 3 minutes of the second half with a red card and then conceding a penalty try when they went down to 13 players following a yellow card changed all that.
The leadership of the experienced second row Mike Blackwood and scrum half Matthew Keane really came through and the team were excellent in the second half along with Andrew McGregor at full back. Ben Finlay scored a fine solo try which gave the players some breathing space with the team showing real heart to get the win.
Along with Head coach Mark McDowell the coaching staff are hoping that over the next month they will continue to see injured players returning to the pitch for the next round of league games. Long term injuries to Alan and Robert Whitten, David Scott, Rory McCurry, Josh Cregan, Blair Robinson, Ally Andress and Harry Gallagher continue to impact on the squad.
Inst are hoping to have Erin Wagner, Josh Lyness, Zach Finlay and Mark Keane added to the squad for game against Bandon on Saturday with the coaches and players taking it one game at a time. Bandon will bring the usual Munster physicality and are coming of the back of a 21 - 6 Junior Cup win over league leaders Clonmel last week.
Clogher Valley v Monivea
The Fivemiletown side have contested the last four semi finals reaching the 2013/14 Final before losing out to Enniscorthy 10 - 9. This is the one competition in Junior rugby the County Tyrone side have not won. This season we have witnessed the side still chasing their first win of the 2016/17 season. Can a trip to Connacht revive their fortunes.
Clogher Valley have selected a squad of 21 with late fitness tests reuired on prop Richard Primrose and back row David Sharkey.
1 - 21 Philip Hopper, Kyle Cobane (Captain), Richard Primrose, Michael Treanor, Eugene McKenna, Ian Mulligan, Nathan Orr, Ryan Wilson, Neil Trotter, Fleming Agnew, Clive Donaldson, Andy Breen, Eamon Whyte, Joshua Coulter, Philip Wilson, Alex McKeown, David Sharkey, Ronan McAleer, Mark Ellis, Matthew Keyes, Mark McKenna.
Toby McAlpine is not available with Allister Trenier joining PC Falconer and Philip Moore on the injured list.
Both the coaches Glen Kyle and Davy Black along with the players were disappointed the team were not able to win their league game at Instonians last Sat.
Portadown v Ballina
Interesting game this. Ballina have made a strong start to their league season as they sit top of Junior 1 in Connacht with five wins. They have scored 175 points and conceded 43 points and are three points clear of former AIL club Connemara in the race for the league title.
Portadown were top of the Ulster Rugby Championship Div 1 up until the weekend when they were deposed by new leaders Enniskillen.
Both Dean Hardy and Andrew Chambers return to the Portadown team this weekend after injury with Lee Bickers and Brian Forrestal missing out through injury. Mark Neilly and Ryan Calvert are added to the bench replacements.
Ballyclare v Richmond
The focus for the Ballyclare coaches and players is always the next game with their attention on the All Ireland Junior Cup this weekend. Ultimately the team is judged on their final league position and that is their top priority, but it is good to have other competitions to go and play in like the Towns Cup, Junior Cup and now the All Ireland Junior Cup.
Head coach Mike McKeever views this weekend as a great occasion for the players and everyone involved in Ballyclare rugby club with the players wanting to give a good account of themselves. For the like of his 18 year old hooker Dean Jones this is an excellent opportunity in his first year out of school but also for the older wise heads of 38 year old Willie Logan and Collie Morrow who show age is only a number and remains young at heart and full of enthusiasm and passion for their club. To get the opportunity to represent their club in an All Ireland competition is wonderful and they will certainly be going to win especially under the leadership of Captain Gary Weatherup.
For this weekend Grant Barclay remains at lock but Ballyclare will potentially be without Rab Boyd due to his wife giving birth to their first child.
Ballyclare have a versatile and extended squad of players they have already made use of so far this season which is excellent for providing opportunities and creating senior depth in the playing squad. It also has its challenges when it comes to selection meetings when more players are returning from injury/work/stag and weddings each week. The fortunate position this week is that the team are allowed five bench replacements with the coaches being able to include players like Ross Johnston, Craig Smith and Matthew Robson to provide a dynamic bench of impact players.
RIVER ROCK TOWNS CUP QUALIFYING ROUND
Dungannon seconds v Ballymena seconds. Played Thursday 27.10.16. Kick off 7.45pm
GORDON WEST CUP 1ST ROUND
Holywood v Strabane
Letterkenny v Virginia
Lurgan v Ballymoney
Newry v Ophir