Buccs accept points deduction

AN administrative error cost Buccaneers their place at the top of the Ulster Bank League Division 1B but the club will not be appealing a decision to dock them two points.

The decision gives Ballynahinch top spot but a Buccs spokesman yesterday explained how the paperwork on a player transferring from Connemara had not been received in time at the IRFU offices. This despite his view that they had done everything to ensure it was in order.

The spokesperson said: “We will not be appealing it. We felt we got a fair hearing and we’ll now just get on with our campaign and do the best we can for the remainder of the season. We’re still only a point behind the leaders and we’re very happy with the way this young team has performed. Hopefully we will continue that good form.”

They will be severely tested when they travel to Belfast Harlequins today, who have bagged three wins from five games, while Ballynahinch will seek to take advantage when they host Bruff.

The big match in Division 1A is at Castle Avenue between Clontarf and Shannon, second and third respectively. Young Munster took advantage of that Clontarf slip and will protect their lead at the top when they take on Lansdowne at Clifford Park.

It has been a dismal season so far for champions Old Belvedere, who have a tough visit St Mary’s. At Musgrave Park, Dolphin and Garryowen, despite their lowly positions, could well produce a high-quality game.

“We’re two young teams and both of us like to throw the ball about,” said Dolphin coach Steve Ford.

“Garryowen are a good team. It will be a test of where we are in developing our talent, because we haven’t had the services of some of our more experienced players [James Coughlan and Danny Barnes], but that gives opportunity to younger boys.”

Although the pace-setters in Division 2A — Queens University, DLSP and Dublin University — are all away from home, they still look strong. Queens may find Corinthians a handful in Galway, but neither Terenure, who host DLSP, nor Midleton, at home to Trinity, are expected to produce shock results.

In Division 2B, Cashel continue to impress and should be too good for Navan. Rainey Old Boys can keep the pressure on with a home win over Suttonians, while Banbridge will be favourites to pick up the points away to Boyne.