Ulster Bank League: Division 2A Previews
The final round of games in Division 2A this weekend and the new structures next season mean that the mid table clashes are the most important. Old Wesley have already been crowned champions and promoted with Blackrock.
ULSTER BANK LEAGUE: DIVISION 2A: Saturday, April 10th
Kick-off 2.30pm unless stated
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Banbridge (4th) v Old Wesley (1st), Rifle Park
Banbridge hosts the newly crowned champions Old Wesley in their final game of the season.
The home side lost away to Naas last time out but with five try bonuses and five losing bonuses in the bank they are a formidable outfit.
The big question is how much Old Wesley may have celebrated in the meantime?
Cashel (5th) v Skerries (3rd), Spafields
A top end clash but with little bar pride and final ranking at stake.
Skerries should finish third overall, depending on the result in Rifle Park while Cashel could overtake the Bann – again depending on the above match.
A creditable season for both and plenty to build on.
Dungannon (14th) v Bective Rangers (16th), Stevenson Park
Both teams will be in Division 2B next season, but then so will several other clubs under the new structure.
Not much at stake therefore but end of season pride and that should not be dismissed lightly.
Hard to call but Stevenson Park should make the difference.
Nenagh Ormond (10th) v Rainey OB (13th), New Ormond Park
A big game for Nenagh Ormond as they occupy the key 10th place that guarantees Division 2A status next season.
The ‘but’ is that UCC are only behind on points difference.
The Tipp side have their fate in their hands – a good win should see them safe.
Queens (8th) v NUIM Barnhall (9th), Dub Lane
A crucial game in deciding the make-up of Divison 2A next season with both teams fighting to ensure their place in it.
Should UCC beat Blackrock they could still overhaul either of these sides which means nobody can afford to relax.
A home win could make for nerves in the Blue Bull faithful.
Seapoint (10th) v City of Derry (12th), Kilbogget Park
The visitors also have an interest in results elsewhere. Should UCC and Nenagh Ormond lose without bonus points then a big points win could see City of Derry steal into 10th.
It’s a big ask so all they can do is play the game in front of them.
The home side have struggled all season but they should look to down fighting.
Thomond (6th) v Naas (7th), Liam Fitzgerald Park
Not a bad season for Thomond but a few games that got away from them cost them a higher place in the table.
Still they notched up five try bonuses and are the right side of an 8/6 win/loss ratio.
Naas appear to have done enough to secure Division 2A status with recent wins over Old Wesley and Banbridge.
UCC (11th) v Blackrock College (2nd), Mardyke
All to play for in the Mardyke for the home side at least.
‘Rock have secured 2nd place and with it promotion to Division 1B next season.
The home side need a win and probably a serious points margin to entertain any thoughts of surviving in Division 2A.