This weekend eight of Ulster's AIL clubs are involved in the quarter finals of the First Trust Senior Cup with Ballymena and City of Derry having two weeks off. Queen's University are also on a break this weekend before travelling to play Sunday Wells in a rearranged AIL game on Saturday 22nd October.
KUKRI CHAMPIONSHIP
League action continues in the Kukri Ulster Rugby Championship this week. In Division 1 the top four sides Portadown, Instonians, Omagh and Enniskillen face up to each other. Instonians make the journey west to Mullaghmeen to face newly promoted Enniskillen with Mid Ulster league leaders Portadown facing an acid test of their league position at the Thomas Mellon playing fields against home side Omagh.
At the other end of Division 1 Ards and Clogher Valley still remain without a win. Cooke in 8th place have only 4 points and need to make home advantage count in a crucial game against Ards this weekend.
In Division 2, favourites Coleraine and CIYMS occupy the top two places with the second place side playing the 9th place team in Division 1 to gain promotion. Can teams including Academy, Limavady, Randalstown and Larne remain in pursuit?
We have three teams - Lisburn, UUC and Donaghadee in 8th to 10th place still chasing their first win of the season with Grosvenor on five points from one win in 7th place. The task has got no easier for Donaghadee with new Head Coach Mark Henderson stepping down.
In Division 3, Ballymoney and Strabane remain undefeated after the opening five league games with Ballymoney two points ahead of 2nd place Strabane. Can PSNI and Lurgan keep up their challenge to finish in the top two?
FIRST TRUST SENIOR CUP QUARTER FINALS
// Armagh RFC v Dungannon RFC
The Orchid County side has already recorded two wins over their County Tyrone neighbours this season with a 35 - 20 win in the SONI Ulster Premiership and a hard fought 18 - 9 win at Stevenson Park two weeks ago in the Ulster Bank All Ireland League. Dungannon have a small playing squad compared to the resources at Armagh this season.
Armagh finally showed their potential last week as they crushed Leinster opponents MU Barnhall 52 - 17 at the Palace Grounds, scoring six tries in the process. Their out half Harvey Young kicked 20 points with Captain Ali Birch contributing two tries.
The coaches are making minimal changes this week, with possibly David Swann and Willie Martin getting a start and Matty Wright and Timmy McNeice returning to the squad after injuries.
For Dungannon Head Coach Andy Hughes the last four tough weeks in the AIL has taken its toll on his small playing squad. Anyone carrying injuries will be rested for the cup game this week. There is no pressure on the team, as the coach will use this game as an opportunity to give more players exposure at this level and develop his extended squad.
// Ballynahinch RFC v Rainey OB RFC
Holders Ballynahinch have had to delve deep into their playing squad with Ulster players injured/unavailable and not released in their last two AIL games with Shannon and Old Wesley. The coaches Derek Suffern and Chris Parker are expected to retain the majority of the squad from last week. Captain Michael Graham is available. Injury rules out James Simpson with Gareth Gill and Connor Phillips still involved with the Ireland rugby league squad. Winger Chris Orr has impressed for the seconds and will be added to the squad along with Callum McLaughlin.
Rainey Head Coach John Andrews is delighted with the start his team have made to their All Ireland League campaign taking a maximum 20 points from their opening four fixtures. He is making sure the players don't get ahead of themselves. He recognises that his side have the unenviable task of taking on the top Ulster club on their home patch. For Rainey it is a great challenge on the back of a great run of six games against good opposition.
The coach has a few players unavailable with the opportunity to give some of the extended squad a run out. Stephen Rutledge and Andrew Donaghy return with Declan O'Brien set to get a chance on the 1st XV.
// Banbridge RFC v Malone RFC
This weekend it is the turn of Malone to travel to Rifle Park after Banbridge recorded a narrow 19 - 13 win over the East Belfast side at Gibson Park last week in the AIL.
Bann Head Coach Daniel Soper was impressed by how Malone made his team work and how they defended last week. For the coach and players, it is unusual to play a team back to back, but it is an opportunity for his players to get to the semi final of a Cup. With a week off next weekend for his players, Soper is intending to pick his strongest squad with a number of players carrying knocks to be rested. Hooker Peter Cromie will rest a shoulder injury with Fraser Mulholland coming in after being out for six weeks. He also intends to rotate his props to share the load. Matthew Laird will get his first opportunity in the squad. In the backs, Ben Carson and Ben Cross come in for the unavailable Simon Lloyd with Captain Jonny Little getting a rest. For the coaches and players, the Cup is a welcome break from the AIL.
Malone squad 1 - 20 Chris Griffiths, Dave Cave, Ben Halliday, James McAllister, (Captain), Josh Davidson, Josh Ferguson, Jake Barrie-Glendinning, Ben McDonnell, Shane Kelly, Kieran Joyce, Andy Bryans, Callum Smith, Nathan Brown, Michael Barker, Mark O'Connor, Ricky Greenwood, Max Porter, Richard Millar, Conor Spence, David Irvine.
Injuries and unavailability rules out Michael Cartmill, Josh Pentland, Michael Shiels, Neill Alcorn, Philip Eadie, Dan Kerr, Dane Fitzpatrick, Lee Barlow, Adam Liddell, Cory Tipping, Mark McCrea, Rory Campbell and Philip Lucas.
// Bangor RFC v Belfast Harlequins RFC
For the North Down side, it has been two wins from three with their AIL game at Tullamore being postponed last week due to a bereavement. Their South Belfast opponents Belfast Harlequins have found the going difficult in Division 2A after being relegated last season. One win from four is not the form for a team looking to return to Division 1B next season.
Bangor 1st XV Manager Ricky Armstrong views this as a tricky game for his players on Saturday. For the team it is an opportunity to get to the semi final of the First Trust Senior Cup against a side who are two divisions above Bangor but like Bangor are ultimately concentrating on the AIL matches.
The players are looking forward to Saturday and their attitude will not change, they want to win, wanting to perform and wanting to progress in any competition they enter. This attitude comes off the back of last year's Cup runs and the winning mentality it created. The feeling is you keep winning matches you gather more momentum.
That said for this weekend the squad are carrying a few injuries. The unfortunate circumstances of last weekends cancelled game was welcomed amongst the players and management alike.
Players including Desi Fusco, Philip Whyte, Phil Broderick, Mike Weir, Mark Widdowson, David Moody, Conor McllMurray and Mike Apsley are all carrying knocks and will continue rehab work with Lewis Sampson involved with Ulster. Both Dave Caughey and Curtis Stewart will make a welcome return this week.
Bangor selection will come from 1 - 20 Andrew Shaw, Conor Pyper, James Leary, Dave Caughey, Glenn Burton, Graig Burton, Jamie Clegg (Captain), Curtis Stewart, Gareth Wright, Jason Morgan, Neil Cuthbertson/Lewis Loane, Taylor Ferguson, Rob Gamble, Adam McCusker, Ross McCloskey, Oran McIImurray, Andrew Jackson, David Bradford, Ali Lockhart, Lewis loane/Neil Cuthbertson.
Bangor are a top side and have done very well in recent years. The Quins coaches and players are expecting a very tough game.
Armagh v Dungannon
Ballynahinch v Rainey OB
Banbridge v Malone
Bangor v Belfast Harlequins
KUKRI ULSTER RUGBY CHAMPIONSHIP DIVISION 1
// Carrickfergus RFC v Dromore RFC
Two teams separated by one point with Dromore having played one game more than Carrick. League points are crucial if either team has aspirations to finish in the top four. There is also the danger of losing and slipping down into the bottom two places. Newly promoted Carrick have a new coaching team in Michael Rainey and Davy Scott this season with these two coaches very much aware of the importance of winning your home games in this league. Dromore lost narrowly to Instonians before defeating Enniskillen at home last week 16 - 14. They are a team full of potential and reached the top four two seasons ago to qualify for the AIL Junior Cup. Both teams won narrowly at Ards in recent weeks. On paper not a lot to choose between both teams.
Dromore Head Coach Jonny Cullen was delighted the team stepped up to the mark on Saturday with a solid performance which is a must to earn points against every team in this league. It was a good result to build on with a very hard fixture this week away to Carrickfergus. The coach retains the same team that defeated Enniskillen. Number 8 Johnny Maguire scored a crucial try with the reliable boot of scrum half Lee Steenson contributing eleven points including a match winning penalty at the end of the game for Dromore to win.
One area that concerned the coaches was the issuing of two yellow cards and a penalty try by the match referee.
Dromore squad. 1 - 17 Rory Pepper, Michael Harshaw, Andrew Black, Gareth Fitzpatrick, Stuart Russell, Dylan Cobb, Adam McGregor (Captain), Johnny Maguire, Lee Steenson, Adam McDonald, Onny Russell, Johnny Cullen, Alastair Kinghan, Aaron Stewart, Sam Russell, George Wilson, Ross Bingham.
// Cooke RFC v Ards RFC
Vital game for both teams at Shaw’s Bridge this week. Cooke have 4 points from 3 games with Ards no points from 4 games. Cooke Head Coach Colin Atkinson continues to make changes each week due to injuries and unavailability. His players will have been delighted to score four tries in their 25 - 20 conference league win at Ballymena last week. This was much needed after suffering two defeats to Division 1 leaders Portadown 20 - 15 and 32 - 20 in the Junior Cup and league.
Ards Head Coach Davy Irwin is hoping this week his players can pick up that all important first win at Cooke. It was 10 - 6 to Carrick with minutes to go last Saturday when the game could have went either way. Carrick then scored a converted try to deny Ards any league points. With several players unavailable through injury including Taylor Nutt, Bale Tabaiwalu, Chris Hamilton, Steven Adams, Scott Young and Robbie Williamson along with the unavailable Colin McClure, Jonny Wylie, Stewart Paul, Ross Torney and Oisini Burekama playing rugby league for Ireland it has been a case of the coach introducing new faces to his 1st XV including Ryan Thompson, Aaron May, Adam Warnock and the returning David Armstrong.
// Enniskillen RFC v Instonians RFC
Poor game management along with several missed penalty opportunities at Dromore denied Enniskillen a win last week. The fixtures get no easier for the Fermanagh side as they take on the league favourites, Instonians at Mullaghmeen.
Enniskillen Head Coach Willy Gibson will welcome back the suspended John Maguire and the experienced Matty Maguire to their squad this week. The playing squad are looking to put the mistakes from last week behind them and play a high intensity game against their South Belfast visitors.
Instonians Director of Rugby William Leacock has 17 players unavailable through injury for selection this week. He welcomes back Hooker Conor Gallagher who will Captain the team in the absence of the injured Robert Whitten. Zach Finlay comes into the centre with Jordan McMullan taking his place on the bench. The challenge for the Inst coaches is trying to manage all their injuries. The players have been very positive in training and are looking forward to the trip to Enniskillen which will be an extremely tough game.
// Omagh RFC v Portadown RFC
Five points separate these two sides with Omagh wanting to make sure they don't concede any further ground to a Portadown side that has surprised many as they maintained their form and leadership in Division 1 with an impressive 23 - 15 win over one of the title contenders Ballyclare at Chambers Park last weekend. They face a difficult task against an Omagh side that swept aside Clogher Valley 50 - 12 at the Cran scoring eight tries in the process. This followed up their 49 - 18 win at Larne in the Junior Cup the previous week when they also scored eight tries. Full back Alastair Beckett has scored five of those tries with wingers Neil Brown and Ryan Mitchell scoring three.
Players that have impressed are new additions to the team in recent seasons including back row James Catterson, Hooker Mark Brown and centre Adam Stephenson. The strong relationship developed through the clubs Youth section and Omagh Academy continues to provide a conveyer belt of talent into the club. This is reflected in the strength of the clubs 2nds, 3rds and 4ths. Last week Omagh seconds defeated a strong and experienced Queen’s seconds 31 - 7.
Omagh Head Coach Philip Marshall is delighted by the work the club has put in, as it is finally starting to reap the rewards for all the hard work at Youth Development. Once again the four adult sides won at the weekend with all local lads in the teams.
For this weekend against Portadown the coach is resting centre Alan Heaney with Michael Gibson his likely replacement with the players looking forward to the game. The coach was also full of praise for the young referee from Leinster who refereed the Clogher Valley v Omagh match at the Cran last week.
Portadown Head Coach Richard Hedley and his assistant Ciaran O'Kane are delighted with the performances of the team this season. They sit top of Division 1 and are through to the quarter finals of the Millar McCall Wylie Junior Cup with a 1st round match coming up in the AIL Junior Cup on the 29th October against Ballina. After a 23 - 15 win over Ballyclare last weekend confidence is high amongst the squad they can go to Omagh on Saturday and win. The only change expected this week is Rodney Blair replacing the unavailable Danny Alexander in the second row. Portdown are another club making progress this season with the their 2nds, 3rds and 4ths performing this season.
Former Portadown College out half Jack Orr continues to impress at out half, picking up the man of the match award last week against Ballyclare. As Richard Hedley said if both Jack Orr and another Portdown College player James Wright went to RBAI they would have played for RBAI 1st XV. Is this another case of talented young players slipping under the radar? No doubt Saturday will be a test for Jack Orr in the red hot environment of the Thomas Mellon playing fields in front of a large and partisan home support.
Carrickfergus (7) v Dromore (5)
Cooke (8) v Ards (10)
Enniskillen (4) v Instonians (2)
Omagh (3) v Portadown (1)
Ballyclare v Ballymena seconds. Played Thursday 13.10.16. Kick off 7.45pm. Ballyclare won 12 - 8
Ballynahinch seconds v Clogher Valley. Played Thursday 13.10.16. Kick off 7.30pm. Ballynahinch won 25 - 12.
KUKRI ULSTER RUGBY CHAMPIONSHIP DIVISION 2
// Grosvenor RFC v Limavady RFC
It will be another testing fixture for Robert Ford and his Grosvenor side as they welcome newly promoted Limavady to Gibson Park. The East Belfast side know they have to keep picking up league points to keep a distance between the three bottom sides who remain without a win. He has assembled a strong squad and is still trying to find the right combinations. The 39 - 7 defeat at league leaders Coleraine is another bar for his players to measure themselves against if they have ambitions to finish in the top four this season.
Limavady under former City of Derry coach Mark Nicholl have balance in their young squad with several experienced players added in the close season. Again this North West club has ambitions to play in Division 1. Their goal this season has to be to finish in the top four if they are going to achieve their ambitions.
// Larne RFC v Randalstown RFC
It has been a tough couple of weeks for Larne Head Coach Lawrence Kelly and his players. Two heavy defeats against Omagh 49 - 18 and CIYMS 67 -14 have emphasised the gulf between the top sides in Division 1 and 2. As the coach pointed out to me it is difficult for clubs competing in Division 1 and 2 to be competitive with small playing squads against the clubs with depth in strength. This weekend the games get no easier with a County Antrim derby against Randalstown at the Glynn.
For the Larne Head Coach the physicality in recent games has added to the 1st XV injury list. Despite the pressure on his players he is expecting his team to step up their performance. There will be no excuses against an in-form Randalstown team. The coach has watched his team compete for 50/60 minutes in recent games. The task for the players is to compete for 80 minutes to give his players a chance to win. Once again the coach knows his players will give it everything.
Randalstown Head Coach Gary Longwell is expecting a very difficult game at Larne this week. They have quality players in key positions. Last season the games between the two teams were tightly contested and it should be another very close game this weekend.
// Lisburn RFC v Coleraine RFC
Another season of struggling at the bottom of Division 2 for a Lisburn side that was expected to build on their strong finish to last season. Their opponents this week at Blaris are league leaders Coleraine who along with CIYMS are top of Division 2. With both these two sides favourites to finish in the top two it is all about finsihing top and securing the automatic promotion place into D1. Bonus points will be crucial as these two teams will look for the maximum five points from their opponents. Can this Lisburn side halt the march of the North coast side. They face a monumental task. Lisburn will have been boosted by a 31 - 3 win at Gibson Park last Saturday against Malone seconds. Can Head Coach Neil Hinds and his players build on this performance.
Unfortunately for Lisburn this weekend their small squad continues to be decimated by injuries. Hooker Michael Press and Jake Bebbington face lengthy spells on the sidelines with shoulder injuries. Centre Matthew Arneill, Winger Scott Hughes and second row Jonny Davis will also miss out this week through injury.
Coleraine Head Coach Richard Boyd was very pleased with the hard fought victory against Grosvenor last Saturday as it kept the momentum going. As expected Grosvenor were very physical, well organised and will be competing at the top end of D2. The regular half back pairing of Rhys McAuley and Bokkie Carstens were both unavailable for the game against Grosvenor. The team was able to adapt and control the game throughout. The teams set piece provided the platform to play off and the defence held firm under pressure throughout the game.
This Saturday provides another test away to a Lisburn side with a strong pack and a side that will test us out at the breakdown. They have had a difficult start to the season but I think they will come good and it is important we are focused and do the basics well on the day if we want to grind out an away win.
Selection is very tight at the minute and we have been rotating our squad to keep players fresh and on their toes. Stuart Evans, James Blair and Josh Christie get a start this week and will get an opportunity to impress. In the backs our front line half backs Rhys mcAuley and Bokkie Carstens return to the squad which is a big boost. Kyle McAuley is promoted to the squad after impressing for the 2nd xv last weekend.
// UUC RFC V CIYMS RFC
You would have to say there is only one winner in this match. As usual the students are taking time to assemble their playing squad for this season. Recent performances have been encouraging with the 1st XV winning a close game at Banbridge seconds 44 - 41 last weekend after losing 35 - 17 at home to Academy the previous week in the league.
Brett Campbell from UUC was pleased with the win at Banbridge. It was reward for the effort the players have put in over recent weeks. For spectators the match at Rifle Park was entertaining with the two teams playing open attacking rugby with both teams sharing a total of 11 tries as the students edged the win. Winger Stephen Logan scored a hat- trick with Kiwi centre Tom Kavanagh scoring two tries. There were first outings for former schoolboys Jake Stephenson in the second row and centre Jamie Dorman.
This Saturday, the game against CIYMS will be a massive test for the students. Hooker Adam Jamieson makes his first outing in place of the injured Michael Smith with Lewis McCrabbe taking his place in the second row.
CIYMS are expected to be unchanged bar Paddy Aiken coming in for the injured Joel Ryan in the second row. Front row replacement Gavin Woods picked up a calf injury against Larne. Centre Callum Irvine was amongst the try scorers picking up another three. New addition to the CIYMS squad is former Regent House scrum half Alan Sinnamon who is pushing for a place in the 1st XV squad.
Coaches Gareth Fry and Adam Grainger along with 1st XV Manager Andy Rogers will be delighted to see centre Will Herron returning to training this week. Prop Ali Coulson is still waiting clearance to play. Other players who will become available include Jason Harvey, Harry and Jack Howard in the coming weeks along with Simon Baillie.
CIYMS squad: 1- 17 Tom Stevenson, Alan Whitely, Timothy Acheson, David Cobain, Paddy Aiken, Scott Dowle, Ross Hackney, Mark mcConkey (Captain), Cameron Stewart, James McKinney, Andy Hodgin, Callum Irvine, Nathan Burns, Jason Gilliland, Peter Raine, N/K, N/K.
Grosvenor (7) v Limavady (4)
Larne (6) v Randalstown (5)
Lisburn (8) v Coleraine (1)
UUC (9) v CIYMS (2)
// Armagh RFC 2 XV v Academy RFC
Belfast Harlequins 2XV v Malone 2XV. Played Thursday 13.10.16. Kick off 7.30pm. Malone seconds won 14 - 7.
Donaghadee v Banbridge 2XV.
KUKRI ULSTER RUGBY CHAMPIONSHIP DIVISION 3
BHSFP (5) v Virginia (6)
Ballymoney (1) v Newry (8)
Holywood (7) v Cavan (9)
Letterkenny (10) v Ophir (12)
Monaghan (11) v Lurgan (4)
Strabane (2) v PSNI (3)
KUKRI CHAMPIONSHIP
League action continues in the Kukri Ulster Rugby Championship this week. In Division 1 the top four sides Portadown, Instonians, Omagh and Enniskillen face up to each other. Instonians make the journey west to Mullaghmeen to face newly promoted Enniskillen with Mid Ulster league leaders Portadown facing an acid test of their league position at the Thomas Mellon playing fields against home side Omagh.
At the other end of Division 1 Ards and Clogher Valley still remain without a win. Cooke in 8th place have only 4 points and need to make home advantage count in a crucial game against Ards this weekend.
In Division 2, favourites Coleraine and CIYMS occupy the top two places with the second place side playing the 9th place team in Division 1 to gain promotion. Can teams including Academy, Limavady, Randalstown and Larne remain in pursuit?
We have three teams - Lisburn, UUC and Donaghadee in 8th to 10th place still chasing their first win of the season with Grosvenor on five points from one win in 7th place. The task has got no easier for Donaghadee with new Head Coach Mark Henderson stepping down.
In Division 3, Ballymoney and Strabane remain undefeated after the opening five league games with Ballymoney two points ahead of 2nd place Strabane. Can PSNI and Lurgan keep up their challenge to finish in the top two?
FIRST TRUST SENIOR CUP QUARTER FINALS
// Armagh RFC v Dungannon RFC
The Orchid County side has already recorded two wins over their County Tyrone neighbours this season with a 35 - 20 win in the SONI Ulster Premiership and a hard fought 18 - 9 win at Stevenson Park two weeks ago in the Ulster Bank All Ireland League. Dungannon have a small playing squad compared to the resources at Armagh this season.
Armagh finally showed their potential last week as they crushed Leinster opponents MU Barnhall 52 - 17 at the Palace Grounds, scoring six tries in the process. Their out half Harvey Young kicked 20 points with Captain Ali Birch contributing two tries.
The coaches are making minimal changes this week, with possibly David Swann and Willie Martin getting a start and Matty Wright and Timmy McNeice returning to the squad after injuries.
For Dungannon Head Coach Andy Hughes the last four tough weeks in the AIL has taken its toll on his small playing squad. Anyone carrying injuries will be rested for the cup game this week. There is no pressure on the team, as the coach will use this game as an opportunity to give more players exposure at this level and develop his extended squad.
// Ballynahinch RFC v Rainey OB RFC
Holders Ballynahinch have had to delve deep into their playing squad with Ulster players injured/unavailable and not released in their last two AIL games with Shannon and Old Wesley. The coaches Derek Suffern and Chris Parker are expected to retain the majority of the squad from last week. Captain Michael Graham is available. Injury rules out James Simpson with Gareth Gill and Connor Phillips still involved with the Ireland rugby league squad. Winger Chris Orr has impressed for the seconds and will be added to the squad along with Callum McLaughlin.
Rainey Head Coach John Andrews is delighted with the start his team have made to their All Ireland League campaign taking a maximum 20 points from their opening four fixtures. He is making sure the players don't get ahead of themselves. He recognises that his side have the unenviable task of taking on the top Ulster club on their home patch. For Rainey it is a great challenge on the back of a great run of six games against good opposition.
The coach has a few players unavailable with the opportunity to give some of the extended squad a run out. Stephen Rutledge and Andrew Donaghy return with Declan O'Brien set to get a chance on the 1st XV.
// Banbridge RFC v Malone RFC
This weekend it is the turn of Malone to travel to Rifle Park after Banbridge recorded a narrow 19 - 13 win over the East Belfast side at Gibson Park last week in the AIL.
Bann Head Coach Daniel Soper was impressed by how Malone made his team work and how they defended last week. For the coach and players, it is unusual to play a team back to back, but it is an opportunity for his players to get to the semi final of a Cup. With a week off next weekend for his players, Soper is intending to pick his strongest squad with a number of players carrying knocks to be rested. Hooker Peter Cromie will rest a shoulder injury with Fraser Mulholland coming in after being out for six weeks. He also intends to rotate his props to share the load. Matthew Laird will get his first opportunity in the squad. In the backs, Ben Carson and Ben Cross come in for the unavailable Simon Lloyd with Captain Jonny Little getting a rest. For the coaches and players, the Cup is a welcome break from the AIL.
Malone squad 1 - 20 Chris Griffiths, Dave Cave, Ben Halliday, James McAllister, (Captain), Josh Davidson, Josh Ferguson, Jake Barrie-Glendinning, Ben McDonnell, Shane Kelly, Kieran Joyce, Andy Bryans, Callum Smith, Nathan Brown, Michael Barker, Mark O'Connor, Ricky Greenwood, Max Porter, Richard Millar, Conor Spence, David Irvine.
Injuries and unavailability rules out Michael Cartmill, Josh Pentland, Michael Shiels, Neill Alcorn, Philip Eadie, Dan Kerr, Dane Fitzpatrick, Lee Barlow, Adam Liddell, Cory Tipping, Mark McCrea, Rory Campbell and Philip Lucas.
// Bangor RFC v Belfast Harlequins RFC
For the North Down side, it has been two wins from three with their AIL game at Tullamore being postponed last week due to a bereavement. Their South Belfast opponents Belfast Harlequins have found the going difficult in Division 2A after being relegated last season. One win from four is not the form for a team looking to return to Division 1B next season.
Bangor 1st XV Manager Ricky Armstrong views this as a tricky game for his players on Saturday. For the team it is an opportunity to get to the semi final of the First Trust Senior Cup against a side who are two divisions above Bangor but like Bangor are ultimately concentrating on the AIL matches.
The players are looking forward to Saturday and their attitude will not change, they want to win, wanting to perform and wanting to progress in any competition they enter. This attitude comes off the back of last year's Cup runs and the winning mentality it created. The feeling is you keep winning matches you gather more momentum.
That said for this weekend the squad are carrying a few injuries. The unfortunate circumstances of last weekends cancelled game was welcomed amongst the players and management alike.
Players including Desi Fusco, Philip Whyte, Phil Broderick, Mike Weir, Mark Widdowson, David Moody, Conor McllMurray and Mike Apsley are all carrying knocks and will continue rehab work with Lewis Sampson involved with Ulster. Both Dave Caughey and Curtis Stewart will make a welcome return this week.
Bangor selection will come from 1 - 20 Andrew Shaw, Conor Pyper, James Leary, Dave Caughey, Glenn Burton, Graig Burton, Jamie Clegg (Captain), Curtis Stewart, Gareth Wright, Jason Morgan, Neil Cuthbertson/Lewis Loane, Taylor Ferguson, Rob Gamble, Adam McCusker, Ross McCloskey, Oran McIImurray, Andrew Jackson, David Bradford, Ali Lockhart, Lewis loane/Neil Cuthbertson.
Bangor are a top side and have done very well in recent years. The Quins coaches and players are expecting a very tough game.
Armagh v Dungannon
Ballynahinch v Rainey OB
Banbridge v Malone
Bangor v Belfast Harlequins
KUKRI ULSTER RUGBY CHAMPIONSHIP DIVISION 1
// Carrickfergus RFC v Dromore RFC
Two teams separated by one point with Dromore having played one game more than Carrick. League points are crucial if either team has aspirations to finish in the top four. There is also the danger of losing and slipping down into the bottom two places. Newly promoted Carrick have a new coaching team in Michael Rainey and Davy Scott this season with these two coaches very much aware of the importance of winning your home games in this league. Dromore lost narrowly to Instonians before defeating Enniskillen at home last week 16 - 14. They are a team full of potential and reached the top four two seasons ago to qualify for the AIL Junior Cup. Both teams won narrowly at Ards in recent weeks. On paper not a lot to choose between both teams.
Dromore Head Coach Jonny Cullen was delighted the team stepped up to the mark on Saturday with a solid performance which is a must to earn points against every team in this league. It was a good result to build on with a very hard fixture this week away to Carrickfergus. The coach retains the same team that defeated Enniskillen. Number 8 Johnny Maguire scored a crucial try with the reliable boot of scrum half Lee Steenson contributing eleven points including a match winning penalty at the end of the game for Dromore to win.
One area that concerned the coaches was the issuing of two yellow cards and a penalty try by the match referee.
Dromore squad. 1 - 17 Rory Pepper, Michael Harshaw, Andrew Black, Gareth Fitzpatrick, Stuart Russell, Dylan Cobb, Adam McGregor (Captain), Johnny Maguire, Lee Steenson, Adam McDonald, Onny Russell, Johnny Cullen, Alastair Kinghan, Aaron Stewart, Sam Russell, George Wilson, Ross Bingham.
// Cooke RFC v Ards RFC
Vital game for both teams at Shaw’s Bridge this week. Cooke have 4 points from 3 games with Ards no points from 4 games. Cooke Head Coach Colin Atkinson continues to make changes each week due to injuries and unavailability. His players will have been delighted to score four tries in their 25 - 20 conference league win at Ballymena last week. This was much needed after suffering two defeats to Division 1 leaders Portadown 20 - 15 and 32 - 20 in the Junior Cup and league.
Ards Head Coach Davy Irwin is hoping this week his players can pick up that all important first win at Cooke. It was 10 - 6 to Carrick with minutes to go last Saturday when the game could have went either way. Carrick then scored a converted try to deny Ards any league points. With several players unavailable through injury including Taylor Nutt, Bale Tabaiwalu, Chris Hamilton, Steven Adams, Scott Young and Robbie Williamson along with the unavailable Colin McClure, Jonny Wylie, Stewart Paul, Ross Torney and Oisini Burekama playing rugby league for Ireland it has been a case of the coach introducing new faces to his 1st XV including Ryan Thompson, Aaron May, Adam Warnock and the returning David Armstrong.
// Enniskillen RFC v Instonians RFC
Poor game management along with several missed penalty opportunities at Dromore denied Enniskillen a win last week. The fixtures get no easier for the Fermanagh side as they take on the league favourites, Instonians at Mullaghmeen.
Enniskillen Head Coach Willy Gibson will welcome back the suspended John Maguire and the experienced Matty Maguire to their squad this week. The playing squad are looking to put the mistakes from last week behind them and play a high intensity game against their South Belfast visitors.
Instonians Director of Rugby William Leacock has 17 players unavailable through injury for selection this week. He welcomes back Hooker Conor Gallagher who will Captain the team in the absence of the injured Robert Whitten. Zach Finlay comes into the centre with Jordan McMullan taking his place on the bench. The challenge for the Inst coaches is trying to manage all their injuries. The players have been very positive in training and are looking forward to the trip to Enniskillen which will be an extremely tough game.
// Omagh RFC v Portadown RFC
Five points separate these two sides with Omagh wanting to make sure they don't concede any further ground to a Portadown side that has surprised many as they maintained their form and leadership in Division 1 with an impressive 23 - 15 win over one of the title contenders Ballyclare at Chambers Park last weekend. They face a difficult task against an Omagh side that swept aside Clogher Valley 50 - 12 at the Cran scoring eight tries in the process. This followed up their 49 - 18 win at Larne in the Junior Cup the previous week when they also scored eight tries. Full back Alastair Beckett has scored five of those tries with wingers Neil Brown and Ryan Mitchell scoring three.
Players that have impressed are new additions to the team in recent seasons including back row James Catterson, Hooker Mark Brown and centre Adam Stephenson. The strong relationship developed through the clubs Youth section and Omagh Academy continues to provide a conveyer belt of talent into the club. This is reflected in the strength of the clubs 2nds, 3rds and 4ths. Last week Omagh seconds defeated a strong and experienced Queen’s seconds 31 - 7.
Omagh Head Coach Philip Marshall is delighted by the work the club has put in, as it is finally starting to reap the rewards for all the hard work at Youth Development. Once again the four adult sides won at the weekend with all local lads in the teams.
For this weekend against Portadown the coach is resting centre Alan Heaney with Michael Gibson his likely replacement with the players looking forward to the game. The coach was also full of praise for the young referee from Leinster who refereed the Clogher Valley v Omagh match at the Cran last week.
Portadown Head Coach Richard Hedley and his assistant Ciaran O'Kane are delighted with the performances of the team this season. They sit top of Division 1 and are through to the quarter finals of the Millar McCall Wylie Junior Cup with a 1st round match coming up in the AIL Junior Cup on the 29th October against Ballina. After a 23 - 15 win over Ballyclare last weekend confidence is high amongst the squad they can go to Omagh on Saturday and win. The only change expected this week is Rodney Blair replacing the unavailable Danny Alexander in the second row. Portdown are another club making progress this season with the their 2nds, 3rds and 4ths performing this season.
Former Portadown College out half Jack Orr continues to impress at out half, picking up the man of the match award last week against Ballyclare. As Richard Hedley said if both Jack Orr and another Portdown College player James Wright went to RBAI they would have played for RBAI 1st XV. Is this another case of talented young players slipping under the radar? No doubt Saturday will be a test for Jack Orr in the red hot environment of the Thomas Mellon playing fields in front of a large and partisan home support.
Carrickfergus (7) v Dromore (5)
Cooke (8) v Ards (10)
Enniskillen (4) v Instonians (2)
Omagh (3) v Portadown (1)
Ballyclare v Ballymena seconds. Played Thursday 13.10.16. Kick off 7.45pm. Ballyclare won 12 - 8
Ballynahinch seconds v Clogher Valley. Played Thursday 13.10.16. Kick off 7.30pm. Ballynahinch won 25 - 12.
KUKRI ULSTER RUGBY CHAMPIONSHIP DIVISION 2
// Grosvenor RFC v Limavady RFC
It will be another testing fixture for Robert Ford and his Grosvenor side as they welcome newly promoted Limavady to Gibson Park. The East Belfast side know they have to keep picking up league points to keep a distance between the three bottom sides who remain without a win. He has assembled a strong squad and is still trying to find the right combinations. The 39 - 7 defeat at league leaders Coleraine is another bar for his players to measure themselves against if they have ambitions to finish in the top four this season.
Limavady under former City of Derry coach Mark Nicholl have balance in their young squad with several experienced players added in the close season. Again this North West club has ambitions to play in Division 1. Their goal this season has to be to finish in the top four if they are going to achieve their ambitions.
// Larne RFC v Randalstown RFC
It has been a tough couple of weeks for Larne Head Coach Lawrence Kelly and his players. Two heavy defeats against Omagh 49 - 18 and CIYMS 67 -14 have emphasised the gulf between the top sides in Division 1 and 2. As the coach pointed out to me it is difficult for clubs competing in Division 1 and 2 to be competitive with small playing squads against the clubs with depth in strength. This weekend the games get no easier with a County Antrim derby against Randalstown at the Glynn.
For the Larne Head Coach the physicality in recent games has added to the 1st XV injury list. Despite the pressure on his players he is expecting his team to step up their performance. There will be no excuses against an in-form Randalstown team. The coach has watched his team compete for 50/60 minutes in recent games. The task for the players is to compete for 80 minutes to give his players a chance to win. Once again the coach knows his players will give it everything.
Randalstown Head Coach Gary Longwell is expecting a very difficult game at Larne this week. They have quality players in key positions. Last season the games between the two teams were tightly contested and it should be another very close game this weekend.
// Lisburn RFC v Coleraine RFC
Another season of struggling at the bottom of Division 2 for a Lisburn side that was expected to build on their strong finish to last season. Their opponents this week at Blaris are league leaders Coleraine who along with CIYMS are top of Division 2. With both these two sides favourites to finish in the top two it is all about finsihing top and securing the automatic promotion place into D1. Bonus points will be crucial as these two teams will look for the maximum five points from their opponents. Can this Lisburn side halt the march of the North coast side. They face a monumental task. Lisburn will have been boosted by a 31 - 3 win at Gibson Park last Saturday against Malone seconds. Can Head Coach Neil Hinds and his players build on this performance.
Unfortunately for Lisburn this weekend their small squad continues to be decimated by injuries. Hooker Michael Press and Jake Bebbington face lengthy spells on the sidelines with shoulder injuries. Centre Matthew Arneill, Winger Scott Hughes and second row Jonny Davis will also miss out this week through injury.
Coleraine Head Coach Richard Boyd was very pleased with the hard fought victory against Grosvenor last Saturday as it kept the momentum going. As expected Grosvenor were very physical, well organised and will be competing at the top end of D2. The regular half back pairing of Rhys McAuley and Bokkie Carstens were both unavailable for the game against Grosvenor. The team was able to adapt and control the game throughout. The teams set piece provided the platform to play off and the defence held firm under pressure throughout the game.
This Saturday provides another test away to a Lisburn side with a strong pack and a side that will test us out at the breakdown. They have had a difficult start to the season but I think they will come good and it is important we are focused and do the basics well on the day if we want to grind out an away win.
Selection is very tight at the minute and we have been rotating our squad to keep players fresh and on their toes. Stuart Evans, James Blair and Josh Christie get a start this week and will get an opportunity to impress. In the backs our front line half backs Rhys mcAuley and Bokkie Carstens return to the squad which is a big boost. Kyle McAuley is promoted to the squad after impressing for the 2nd xv last weekend.
// UUC RFC V CIYMS RFC
You would have to say there is only one winner in this match. As usual the students are taking time to assemble their playing squad for this season. Recent performances have been encouraging with the 1st XV winning a close game at Banbridge seconds 44 - 41 last weekend after losing 35 - 17 at home to Academy the previous week in the league.
Brett Campbell from UUC was pleased with the win at Banbridge. It was reward for the effort the players have put in over recent weeks. For spectators the match at Rifle Park was entertaining with the two teams playing open attacking rugby with both teams sharing a total of 11 tries as the students edged the win. Winger Stephen Logan scored a hat- trick with Kiwi centre Tom Kavanagh scoring two tries. There were first outings for former schoolboys Jake Stephenson in the second row and centre Jamie Dorman.
This Saturday, the game against CIYMS will be a massive test for the students. Hooker Adam Jamieson makes his first outing in place of the injured Michael Smith with Lewis McCrabbe taking his place in the second row.
CIYMS are expected to be unchanged bar Paddy Aiken coming in for the injured Joel Ryan in the second row. Front row replacement Gavin Woods picked up a calf injury against Larne. Centre Callum Irvine was amongst the try scorers picking up another three. New addition to the CIYMS squad is former Regent House scrum half Alan Sinnamon who is pushing for a place in the 1st XV squad.
Coaches Gareth Fry and Adam Grainger along with 1st XV Manager Andy Rogers will be delighted to see centre Will Herron returning to training this week. Prop Ali Coulson is still waiting clearance to play. Other players who will become available include Jason Harvey, Harry and Jack Howard in the coming weeks along with Simon Baillie.
CIYMS squad: 1- 17 Tom Stevenson, Alan Whitely, Timothy Acheson, David Cobain, Paddy Aiken, Scott Dowle, Ross Hackney, Mark mcConkey (Captain), Cameron Stewart, James McKinney, Andy Hodgin, Callum Irvine, Nathan Burns, Jason Gilliland, Peter Raine, N/K, N/K.
Grosvenor (7) v Limavady (4)
Larne (6) v Randalstown (5)
Lisburn (8) v Coleraine (1)
UUC (9) v CIYMS (2)
// Armagh RFC 2 XV v Academy RFC
Belfast Harlequins 2XV v Malone 2XV. Played Thursday 13.10.16. Kick off 7.30pm. Malone seconds won 14 - 7.
Donaghadee v Banbridge 2XV.
KUKRI ULSTER RUGBY CHAMPIONSHIP DIVISION 3
BHSFP (5) v Virginia (6)
Ballymoney (1) v Newry (8)
Holywood (7) v Cavan (9)
Letterkenny (10) v Ophir (12)
Monaghan (11) v Lurgan (4)
Strabane (2) v PSNI (3)