Major final venue bonus for Con

AIB League leaders Cork Constitution have been guaranteed a Cork home final at Musgrave Park on May 5 should they advance that far. With Lansdowne Road and Thomond Park both closed, the IRFU had little option but to select Cork’s Musgrave Park as the venue for the grand final.

Another influencing factor was the fact that Munster have a guaranteed representation of three teams in the last four — Clontarf being the exception.

Unless the IRFU had chosen Donnybrook, Clontarf were always likely to have to travel. As it is, they might not have to if they lose and both Shannon and Garryowen win this weekend.

An IRFU source admitted yesterday that clubs from Munster had previously voiced concern at the cost of playing finals in Dublin in front of small crowds at Lansdowne Road.

“Because of circumstances, we had to look at different issues this year and Musgrave Park was really the only suitable option. It will probably suit everyone, and it’s a venue that can pack in quite a few supporters, thereby helping to make a very positive atmosphere.”

The decision will be a major boost to Constitution, who have already secured a semi-final game at Temple Hill on April 28.

Constitution are a remarkable eight points ahead going into the last game of the league against Ballymena at the Blackrock headquarters this Saturday so the result is meaningless.

There is sure to be fireworks this weekend. Constitution won’t be worried if they’re beaten by Ballymena, although they will want to enhance an impressive record — just one defeat and one draw from 14 games.

UL Bohs are in second place and will be fighting for a home semi when they meet Blackrock College in Stradbrook. They have a healthy enough points difference and are five points ahead of both fourth/fifth placed Shannon and Garryowen. That will be enough to see them through to the play-offs barring a total disaster this weekend.

The team with most concern should be Clontarf, who lost the plot last time out at home to Garryowen. Had they won, it would all have been done and dusted by now. Instead, with a three point lead over both Shannon and Garryowen, they can’t afford the slightest slip up against Dungannon.

The chances are that they will come through that tie but it could be difficult. Chances are too that Shannon, the champions, will retain their position in fourth by beating Dolphin and go on to play Constitution.

But Garryowen are lurking in the background. They’re at home to Galwegians, and they can push onwards by winning with a bonus point, assuming Shannon don’t get one against the Cork side.

It’s all making for a pretty intense and exciting week of AIB league rugby, and that’s not to forget the second and third division semi-finals also taking place.

Those games are: Division Two — Old Belvedere v Young Munster, Anglesea Road, Greystones v Clonakilty, Dr Hickey Park.

Division Three — Wanderers v Instonians, Merrion Road, Ballynahinch v Bruff, Ballymacarn Park.