Clonmel set for big test at Bruff

CLONMEL’S challenge for honours in the First Division of the Heineken Munster Junior League will be severely tested this week, when they travel to face holders Bruff.

This will be Bruff’s first home game in this campaign, having played games in Cork for the last three weeks with considerable success. Although they have a game in hand on the other sides at the top of the table, their failure to pick up a bonus point is a worry, as this was the primary reason they won the title last season. Clonmel ran in ten tries last week, but are unlikely to find the Bruff defence in such a generous mood and it would be a major surprise if the Tipperary side were to end Bruff’s unbeaten run this season.

Leaders Nenagh who have a four point lead over Clonmel, have a home game against Bandon Bandon having dropped two more points last week with that draw against Kilfeacle, must win this game if they are to have any realistic hope chance of being in with a chance of winning the title, but the North Tipperary venue is not an easy place for visiting sides.

Similarly Crosshaven face a difficult task away to Kilfeacle with a win vital to both sides as they strive to stay in the title race. The Cork side are five points off the pace, with Kilfeacle a further two behind, but they do have a game in hand. Games between these sides have been very close and with so much at stake, there should not be much between them at the finish.

Clanwilliam, with six points from their two outings, are still undefeated and they will be confident of getting all five points on offer from their home tie against St. Mary’s, who will be anxious to get put last week’s drubbing by Clonmel out of their system.

Richmond, still searching for their first victory, will be hoping to break their duck at home to Cobh Pirates. The East Cork side will want to bounce back after successive defeats by Thurles and Bruff to keep them in the hunt for a top four finish at least.

Youghal currently languishing at the foot of the table without a point will hope that their luck will change when they entertain St. Senan’s. The Clare side had to rely on a last minute try last week to see off Old Christians and a similar performance could see them lose their first game of the campaign.