Bank Of Ireland Junior Rugby Preview
28th February 2019 By Leonard Allen
Ballincollig are at home to fourth-placed Fermoy in Division 2.
The final series of games in the top two divisions of the Bank of Ireland Munster Junior League are down for decision this weekend, together with the semi-finals of the Division 3 promotion series.
In the game of the day in Division 1, former champions Clonmel lock horns with defending champions Bandon in South Tipperary, where two points would be enough to see Clonmel regain their title.
Newcastle West are already assured of second place but need maximum points against relegated St Mary’s should Clonmel fail to get the points they require, if they were to snatch the title.
Richmond are at home to Clanwilliam, with the Limerick side looking to make the most of home advantage count in a bid to qualify for the All Ireland Junior Cup. This will also depend on the result of the Kilfeacle v Abbeyfeale tie in West Tipperary, because maximum point wins for Richmond and Kilfeacle will prevent the West Limerick side from finishing in the top five.
Home advantage is vital for Galbally who host Crosshaven and Waterpark away to Skibbereen with both sides aiming to preserve their top flight status.
At the foot of the table, Kanturk will be looking to make the most of home advantage count as they welcome fellow strugglers St Senan’s to Duhallow, where a maximum point win will guarantee the winners another season in the top flight.
Three sides tied on 16 points each at the foot of the table are fighting for survival at the foot of Division 2.
Youghal face a tough assignment as they travel to West Cork to take on newly promoted Clonakilty at The Vale, champions Mallow are at home to Waterford City and Ballincollig are at home to fourth-placed Fermoy.
Thurles are on 17 points and they travel to Rathcooney to take on Old Christians.
Muskerry, who are also on 20 points are away to Fethard, Kinsale host Charleville and Cobh Pirates welcome Castleisland to the Paddocks.
The semi-finals of the Division 3 promotion play-off series to determine who gets promoted to Division 2 with Tralee take place this weekend.
Mitchelstown and Killarney go head to head in North Cork for the second time in three weeks, where Mitchelstown recorded a narrow 14-13 win.
In the other play-off, Dungarvan welcome Ennis to West Waterford. These sides met at the same venue in early December, with the home side running out 34-14 winners.
