Holders Cork Con boosted by Manning’s return

JEREMY MANNING will be back in Cork Constitution colours for the crucial AIB League clash with Galwegians at Temple Hill tomorrow (2.30pm).

Fri, 28 Nov, 2008 - 00:00

Manning, who sampled Munster’s stirring encounter with the All Blacks recently, has been released by the province this weekend and is available as the title-holders attempt to climb their way up the table, following a recent slump in form.

Constitution are barely hanging on to a place in the top eight of the division and Manning’s availability will be seen as hugely important against a Galwegians team that has strung together three victories in succession, after losing on opening day to UL Bohs. The Constitution team has not been finalised but coach Brian Walsh confirmed yesterday that Manning would be included and would probably be named in the number 10 jersey.

The match of the day will undoubtedly be the clash between leaders Clontarf and second placed Blackrock College at Castle Avenue, but many will looking to see if struggling Dolphin can finally find form and produce an upset by beating third placed St Mary’s College at Musgrave Park.

Old Belvedere, after a great start to the season, face a tough test at Anglesea Road. Garryowen may be out of the loop at present, but the light blues invariably produce the goods when they’re backed into a corner. In tenth position, after one win, a draw and two defeats from four games, they now feel they are officially in a corner. That should be enough to turn them into extremely dangerous opposition.

Second division title-chasers Bruff are home to Dublin University. As well as seeking victory, they will look to Old Crescent to do them an added favour. Crescent take on leaders Ballynahinch at Rosbrien and could do their bit to reel in the leaders, who enjoy a four points cushion at the top.

Fourth placed Belfast Harlequins travel to the Mardyke to take on UCC (sixth) and the Cork students eye victory in this one to push them into a challenging position. Just one point separates the teams.

In Division Three, Midleton can be expected to strengthen their challenge for promotion with a home victory over struggling Barnhall, while Suttonians could do themselves, and Midleton, a favour by taking points from leaders Portadown, who currently enjoy a three points lead.