Three Munster Clubs in Div One Play-Offs?
The bonus point that Garryowen picked up in their 22-15 defeat at home to League leaders Shannon could yet prove crucial in deciding whether or not they make the play-offs.
Garryowen gained that point thanks to the place kicking of Jeremy Staunton but will be wondering how they didn’t take more from the game. Staunton kicked them back into the lead with a 53rd minute penalty and shortly after Alan Quinlan was sin-binned reducing Shannon to 14.
Garryowen wind up with games against Ballymena (away) and UCD in Dooradoyle and are good enough to take at least five points from those matches but will be hoping that Dominic Crotty (pictured) recovers from the groin strain that forced his withdrawal on Saturday.
Shannon and Cork Constitution look certain to make the play offs and in the process, between them, could see off the challenge of Terenure who visit Cork Constitution next week-end before hosting Shannon in Lakelands in the final game.
That leaves Clontarf, St Mary’s and possibly UCD scrambling for the fourth play off spot with Clontarf best placed right now to secure a place in the play offs.
Remaining Fixtures>
Shannon (45pts). Buccaneers (home), Terenure (away).
Cork Con (43pts). Terenure (home), Buccaneers (away).
Terenure (36pts). Cork Con (away), Shannon (home).
Garryowen (35pts). Ballymena (away), UCD (home).
Clontarf (34pts). Young Munster (home), Dungannon (away), Buccaneers (away).
St Mary’s (34pts). DLSP (home), Blackrock (away).
UCD (34pts). Co Carlow (home), Garryowen (away).