AIL Gets Underway

The Ulster Bank All Ireland League gets underway this weekend with a full programme of games across all five divisions.

The game of the day sees champions of the last two seasons Cork Constitution and Clontarf going head to head at Temple Hill in Division 1A. These sides contested last season’s decider which the Lilywhites won on a 25-21 score line as the Dublin side surrendered their title.

The two Limerick sides in the division are also in action against Dublin opposition. Last season’s semi-finalists Young Munster welcome UCD to Tom Clifford Park and Garryowen travel to the Capital to take on St Mary’s College at Templeville Road.

In Division 1B, Dolphin welcome Naas to Irish Independent Park and Leeside neighbours UCC entertain Shannon at the Mardyke.

UL Bohemian, who missed out on promotion last season, open their account with a home tie against newly promoted Banbridge.

The three Munster sides in Division 2A all begin their campaigns with home ties.

Highfield, who missed out on a third successive promotion last season take on Blackrock College at Woodleigh Park.

Cashel, who avoided relegation host Galwegians and Nenagh Ormond welcome Malone to North Tipperary.

Sunday’s Well, who were relegated from Division 2A after one season, travel to County Kildare to take on MU Barnhall.

Old Crescent, who missed out on a second successive promotion, make the long trip to Magherafelt to take on Rainey Old Boys at Hatrick Park.

Thomond, who were relegated for the second successive year after recording one win last season, will be aiming to preserve their AIL status as they welcome Sligo to Liam Fitzgerald Park.

Midleton begin their campaign with a home tie against Seapoint and Bruff take on Omagh at Kilballyowen Park, in a game which marks the County Tyrone side’s return the AIL after a few years’ absence.