Shannon face tough opener against Garryowen

AIB league champions Shannon face the toughest of starts to the defence of their crown tonight as they face old rivals Garryowen in Dooradoyle (7.30pm).

If last year’s clash at Thomond Park, again under lights, is anything to go by then it should be a cracker; Friday night rugby has been greeted enthusiastically by fans so the light blues should be guaranteed a decent financial return in these difficult times.

Garryowen will be hoping for a good run in this revamped championship as they form part of a new division 1A because they’re already out of the Munster Senior Cup and Limerick Charity Cup after successive home defeats to Dolphin and UL Bohemians.