Muskerry tipped to overcome Fermoy challenge

THE Heineken Munster Clubs Challenge Cup between the top two junior clubs is the highlight of a small junior rugby programme this weekend.

Bruff and Nenagh Ormond meet for the second time this season at Thomond Park in a final that is sure to attract a big attendance. This is a repeat of last season's thrilling final, which the Tipperary side won 16-15 with a last-minute converted try by Liam Delaney.

Since that result, Bruff have emerged as the leading side, as they went on to win the league title on points difference, while Nenagh had to be content with finishing as runners-up in the League and Munster Junior Cup.

This season, both sides have again been dominating the league, although Nenagh, having gone unbeaten last season, have lost two of their eight league games. Bruff beat them in another classic encounter 26-17 to end their unbeaten league run that had stretched back to February 2002 and two weeks ago, Kilfeacle seriously dented their league hopes with a 14-11 victory.

Bruff are still unbeaten. Having reached the final of the Transfield Cup earlier in the season, they won all their league games and since their lucky win over Skibbereen in the semi-final of the Clubs Cup a few weeks ago they have hit top form, picking up maximum points from both their league games against Old Christians and St Mary's and scoring 13 tries.

Nenagh had a difficult opening to their defence of their title with an away trip to Kilfeacle where they won 17-3. They received a walkover from Mallow in the next round and then defeated Douglas 44-12 and Cashel 11-8 in the semi-final. Bruff's route began with a walkover from St Mary's. They then defeated Old Christians 44-5 and Bandon 33-20. They were fortunate to overcome Skibbereen in the semi-final where a late try from John Carroll saw them snatch victory 13-9.

While both sides see the league as their main priority, a win for either side would be a big boost. Bruff will be expected to lift the trophy for the third time, but they know Nenagh will push them all the way.

Muskerry and Fermoy meet in the final of the O'Neill Cup at Musgrave Park (kick-off 2pm). Both sides have lost ground in their bid for promotion from their respective divisions and a trophy would be welcome. Muskerry are now getting the benefit of their successful youth section with the likes of Timmy Keating and Eoin Mitchell now regulars. They had a 44-3 win over Kinsale in the opening round and had to withstand a late onslaught from Charleville before booking their final place with a 10-6 win.

Fermoy have been having a good run this season, with only one defeat, away to Dunmanway in the league when they lost 6-5. They had a narrow 29-28 win away to Kanturk in the opening round and drew 10-10 with Dunmanway in the semi-final, but advanced on the try count 2-1.

Muskerry will start favourites to regain the trophy they won for the first time two seasons ago. But if Fermoy can sort out their kicking problems, then they could make this a close contest.

Shannon entertain Garryowen in the Munster Seconds League at Coonagh and these sides are due to meet for a third time in the opening round of the Junior Cup in January. Garryowen have already won the corresponding fixture in Dooradoyle 22-3 earlier in the season and a second win over their great rivals will see them extend their lead at the top of the table.

The final game in phase one of the South Western Conference U-20 League takes place at Clifford Park, where Young Munster take on Highfield. The home side gave themselves a great chance of a place in the top section with that surprising 12-8 victory over Buccaneers last week and a win will see them book their place in the top section ahead of the Athlone-based side.

Cashel and Kilfeacle will contest the Garryowen Cup final at Cashel. Kilfeacle, with only that one defeat to Nenagh in the opening round of the Challenge Cup, should keep their good run going. The two Gleeson League semi-finals are down for decision on Saturday. Bruff are at home to Old Crescent and should book their place in the decider with Thomond likely to make their trip to Nenagh a winning one in the other semi-final.