Ulster Bank League: Division 2A Previews
Four clubs secured a winning try-scoring bonus point for the perfect start to the Division 2A season last week and all four are away from home this weekend.
ULSTER BANK LEAGUE: DIVISION 2A: Saturday, September 27
Kick-off 2.30pm unless stated –
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Nenagh Ormond (7th) v Thomond (3rd), New Ormond Park, Friday, September 26, 7.30pm
A cracker under lights in prospect as these two newly promoted clubs go head to head at New Ormond Park on Friday night.
Thomond got off to a flying start in a 50-point game against Queen’s University last weekend, securing a try-scoring bonus point into the bargain.
Nenagh Ormond won on the road in Dungannon and they will be keen to keep their unbeaten run, which extends back to last season, on a roll.
Blackrock College (16th) v Skerries (14th), Stradbrook
Neither side shone last weekend with Blackrock shipping five tries at NUIM Barnhall, while Skerries were kept to nil at home by Old Wesley.
A chance on Saturday therefore to kick-start the season. The home side will be keen to set out their stall following relegation. Visitors Skerries – promoted last season – will also be aiming to make amends.
Cashel (11th) v Naas (2nd), Spafield
Cashel looked strong up front last weekend, with their maul a particular strength but they still left Banbridge empty handed.
Naas were impressive five-try winners over UCC on the opening day but the trip to Tipp could prove a more difficult task. It should be a great game at Spafield on Saturday.
City of Derry (9th) v NUIM Barnhall (1st), Judge’s Road
The home side were edged out by a point in a cracking Ulster derby last Saturday against Rainey Old Boys. They face a tough test against visitors NUIM Barnhall this weekend.
The Leixlip-based club notched up an impressive bonus point win over Blackrock on the first day of the league. Both of these sides are harbouring serious ambitions this season so this is a real scene-setter of a match.
Old Wesley (5th) v Dungannon (10th), Donnybrook
Old Wesley play their first league match on the newly unveiled 4G pitch in Donnybrook this weekend.
It certainly looked impressive last week when neighbours Bective won their tie against Seapoint. Dungannon, who were relegated last season, badly need a win to restore confidence.
Queen’s University (12th) v Banbridge (4th), Dub Lane
All bets are off when it comes to an Ulster derby match. Last season Queen’s won this game at Rifle Park but the formbook this time has the Bann slightly ahead.
Their bonus point win over Cashel last week was a great way to open their new pitch but the trip to Dub Lane will be a different ball game.
Seapoint (13th) v Rainey Old Boys (8th), Kilbogget Park
From the 4G of Donnybrook last week to the more familiar pitch of Kilbogget Park for Seapoint. Home comfort could be useful as Rainey can be a tough nut to crack.
Last season this was a 70-point game with Rainey winning 45-33 at Hatrick Park. Worth catching the rematch!
UCC (15th) v Bective Rangers (6th), the Mardyke
The Cork students, who finished fourth last season, did not get off to the brightest of starts last week, giving up a try-scoring bonus point to Naas on day 1.
This Saturday UCC welcome a Bective team who kicked off with a solid win on their new 4G pitch. Form suggests the visitors – under new head coach Barry Gibney – will be keen to ensure that Rangers are not just a ‘home’ side.
Related Links –
Ulster Bank League: Division 2A – Round 1 Review
Latest Ulster Bank League Tables