Pacesetters Richmond have chance to leave Waterpark in their wake
Relegation, promotion and potential title deciders are all on the line in Division One and Two, while the Munster Junior Cup also gets under way with a host of first round matches.
Having claimed the Junior Challenge Cup last weekend Richmond face a tough test in their bid to keep their place at the top of Division One as they travel to Waterpark.
It was a hard-fought victory for the Limerick side last week and they cannot take anything for granted. Waterpark know a win would keep their title hopes alive and they will be fired up.
Skibbereen are the only side with a 100% record and will be aiming to maintain it as they host Clanwilliam who, while comfortable in mid-table, are capable of causing an upset.
Galbally required all their battling qualities to beat Crosshaven last week and now face another trip south to Old Christians, who have struggled this season and will be up against it.
Surprise package Kanturk face a potential stumbling block in Crosshaven and will need another big performance from their pack to prevail.
At the other end of the table, Cobh Pirates travel to Tralee in a big relegation battle. The Kerry side had a great bonus-point win at Clonmel while the Cork side have failed to produce in recent weeks.
Bottom of the table Thurles have had mixed performances but will hope to take advantage of Clonmel’s recent slip in form.
Despite losing to Richmond in the Challenge Cup final Kilfeacle put in a strong showing and were unfortunate to lose. A similar effort could give them a chance against Senan’s, although the Clare side are a tough proposition at home.
The standout game in Division Two is the clash of top side Mallow and third-placed Presentation. Ray Roche and Neil Lucey have stood out for the Cork side but this will be their toughest task to date.
St Mary’s will be aiming to keep the pressure on those sides as they travel to Youghal. The Limerick team will need to be fully focused to win out.
Kinsale and Newcastle West will be expecting to keep the pressure on the top sides too as they take on Ballincollig and Castleisland respectively.
The bottom three sides all face very tough assignments. Muskerry need an improved performance against Killarney while Newport face a tough trip to Ennis. Bandon put in a strong effort against Mallow and a similar effort could see them get the better of Scariff.
In the Junior Cup, Corca Dhuibhne host Dungarvan. The Kerry side should have a big support behind them and will hope for a strong cup run. Dungarvan are going strong in their league, which looks to be their primary focus, and this may give the Kerry side the chance of an upset.
Killorglin need to bounce back from last weekend’s surprise loss against Waterford City. Home advantage should see them overcome Douglas, who pushed the Kerry side close a couple of weeks ago.
Waterford City will be full of confidence following last week’s win but so will Abbeyfeale, who had an impressive win over Charleville. It should be a very exciting game with both sides looking to carry on their winning ways.
Carrick-on-Suir should prove too strong for Kilrush at the Tipperary venue while Highfield have too much experience for Bantry Bay at Woodleigh Park.
CONNECT WITH US TODAY
Be the first to know the latest news and updates
