Shannon to start AIB League at Garryowen

Champions Shannon will kick off their AIB League title defence with a trip to Dooradoyle to face local rivals Garryowen in Division 1A on Saturday October 3rd.

Beaten finalists Clontarf will make the short journey across The River Liffey to tackle St Mary's College and Musgrave Park will be the venue for the Cork derby between Dolphin and Cork Constitution.

The final game of the opening round sees UL Bohemians play host to Blackrock College in an interprovincial tie that produced seven tries last season.