Junior Rugby Focus: Bandon attempt to turn tables on Clonmel in cup

The final four in this season’s Bank of Ireland Munster Junior Cup should be decided over the weekend, with all four quarter-finals set to take place. They all look set to be extremely competitive with every team fancying their chances.

The pick of the games takes place on Saturday with Clonmel not having too long to celebrate regaining their League title. They host the side who pushed them closest in the League, as Bandon will look to get one over their Tipperary rivals. It has been a big rise for the Cork club as they really impressed following promotion. And with a young developing team they could be a force for the future.

However, the players won’t take anything for granted and will aim to maximise their chances of silverware. Richard Walsh has been a stand-out performer and the versatile half-back will cause numerous problems for Clonmel’s defence. While the Tipperary side do have the All Ireland Round Robin to look forward to, they will be just as eager to claim the Cup following last year’s replay lost to Shannon. They possess a wealth of talent around the field and if they are focused, will start as favourites to progress to the semi-finals.

The other three ties pit some of the other top three Junior clubs against powerful Seconds from senior clubs. It has been a fantastic campaign for Galbally and they will be brimming with confidence ahead of their clash with Cork Con’ following last weekend’s success over Bandon. There is a great parish spirit in Galbally but they also possess plenty of talent to supplement their passion.

Cork Con though have a lot of big names with the likes of Cathal O’Flaherty and Sonny Dwyer having plenty of senior experience. They claimed the Seconds League in impressive fashion over Shannon and their opponents will need to play a near perfect game if they are to get the better of the Temple Hill side.

An old rivalry will be rekindled in Cashel as their second’s side take on Richmond. The two clubs has some big clashes at the turn of the decade before Cashel claimed their place in the All Ireland League. The Tipperary side have gone from strength to strength and their large panel of players has laid the foundation for a strong senior side. They have impressed in the Second’s League and may fancy advancing further.

Richmond though will be eager to get one over their old adversaries. Their strong powerful pack is complemented by some fine attacking back players and if they can be bought into the game they could open up the hosts defence.

The final Quarter Final will see Kilfeacle make the trip to Limerick where Young Munster will provide the opposition. While the Cookies haven’t had a strong Seconds League campaign, they have put together a very impressive Cup run with an excellent victory over a strong Thurles side.

The Tipperary side though will be another step up for the Limerick team. Shane Looby is once again an influential player while Gavin Heuston may also play a big part if the Tipperary club are to progress.

There are also some interesting Junior Plate games taking place. Newcastle West have played some good attacking rugby of late. While St Mary’s will be primarily focused on a relegation showdown with Waterpark, they will be seeking a momentum boost this weekend. Ballincollig host Kanturk, with both side’s possessing talented back divisions.

Two big games in the relegation battle in Division 1 with Old Christians hosting Waterpark and St. Senan’s travelling to Muskerry.