Cobh Pirates aiming to knock high-flying Cashel off course

ALTHOUGH it is early days in the First Division of the Munster Junior League, many of the early favourites are up at the right end of the table.

Cashel are the only team with maximum points and they are undoubtedly the forerunners for the title with plenty of skill and experience throughout their side. They have a strong pedigree and know what it takes to win a league title and will be well prepared for their trip to the Paddocks where Cobh Pirates are set to host them.

The east Cork team got a much-needed boost with a victory in Skibbereen.

There will be very little pressure on them going into this clash but they will want to give a good account of themselves.

They possess a dangerous backline but the pack know that they will need to put in a big effort if they are to stay in the game.

Like Cashel, Crosshaven are also unbeaten in league and cups and look capable of posing a major threat to the Tipperary outfit.

The Myrtleville side have also been running in numerous tries which was a weakness of previous seasons and they will be expecting to continue their winning ways at home to St Senan’s.

Waterpark got a great result over Tralee last week and after several difficult seasons they look to be heading back in the right direction. They should continue their good start with a victory over struggling Thurles.

Holders Richmond would have been disappointed with a draw at home to Kilfeacle and the Limerick side on the day weren’t as clinical as last season.

They head on the road to play Ballincollig and it is very unlikely that there will be a repeat of Cashel’s demolition job. That was very much an off day for the Cork side who have several players on the way back from injury. Their victory over an in-form Clanwilliam side will have rejuvenated the team and while Richmond’s experience may see them edge it, they will have to battle all the way to win out.

There is a big Tipperary derby as Clonmel host Clanwilliam with both sides keen to bounce back from defeats while Tralee will also be hoping to get back to winning ways as they host Skibbereen.

Old Christians are the only side currently pointless but will be putting in a big effort to get one over Kilfeacle at Rathcooney.

Killarney have made a great start to life in Division Two and currently sit on top of the table. They face a tough test of their credentials as they travel to play St Mary’s. The Limerick side were unlucky to lose out to Galbally last day out and will hope that their power in the pack can help them win the crucial forward battle.

Galbally host Youghal on Saturday with the Tipperary club likely to be too powerful for their east Cork visitors.

There is an all Cork derby at Kanturk as they host Muskerry.

Kinsale will be eager to get their first league win as they host Newport, while Newcastle West will be hopeful of continuing their decent start as they travel down to Bandon. Castleisland enjoyed a great win over Bandon and will be confident of picking up another win at the expense of pointless Charleville.

Four teams sit on top of Division Three with nine points and all face tricky away trips this weekend.

Corca Dhuibhne travel to face a Carrick-on-Suir team who will feel that a return to Division Two is overdue while Abbeyfeale also head east where Waterford City will be eager to get back to winning ways.

Fermoy face an ever improving Dungarvan side who will feel capable of pushing for a promotion spot.

The other side on nine points is Scariff who will be most expectant of getting a win as they face a competitive Bantry Bay side who are still adapting to playing at a higher level.

Presentation played their first league game last week and got off to a good start.

They should get another win under their belt at home to Shandon. The other game will see Killorglin and Kilrush aiming to get their first wins of the campaign.