Senior And Junior Club Rugby Preview

The new season for senior clubs gets underway this week as the men’s Bank of Ireland Munster Senior Challenge Cup kicks off and there is also an assortment of Junior competition matches in Tipperary, Kerry and Waterford.

See details of the upcoming fixtures here.

The Munster Senior Challenge Cup this year is divided into four groups with the winners of each group qualifying for the semi-finals.

It all starts on Thursday evening in Group 2 as holders Young Munster begin their quest for a third successive crown against Garryowen at Dooradoyle.

Cashel, who made the semi-finals in 2005 when they were still a Junior Club, welcome UCC whose last triumph was in 1981, to the Premier County.

Dolphin, who last won the trophy in 1956, entertain Clonmel at Musgrave Park in Group 3.

The game of the day in Group 1 on Saturday sees two-time winners Highfield taking on Cork Constitution at Woodleigh Park.

Shannon lock horns with Nenagh Ormond at Coonagh and in Group 4, UL Bohemian entertain Bruff at Annacotty.

Proceedings get underway in Tipperary on Wednesday evening, as Clonmel host near neighbours Carrick-on-Suir in the Garryowen Cup.

There are two other Garryowen Cup ties down for decision on Sunday as Kilfeacle lock horns with Cashel and Fethard make the long trip to New Ormond Park, to take on Nenagh Ormond.

In Kerry, McElligott Cup holders Tralee begin their defence of the trophy against Listowel at the North Kerry venue on Sunday in Group 2.

On Tuesday evening, Castleisland are at home to Abbeyfeale in Group 1.

Waterford City and Dungarvan clash in a Casey Cup tie at Kilbarry on Sunday.