Ulster Bank League: Division 2A Previews
The final round of the league before the playoffs and there is something at stake in every match in Division 2A – not least the destination of the title.
ULSTER BANK LEAGUE: DIVISION 2C: Saturday, March 26
Kick-off 2.30pm unless stated –
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Banbridge (2nd) v Malone (6th), Rifle Park
It was always going to be a tight race for Banbridge but they were badly caught out last week as relegation prospects Corinthians took the spoils.
The home club of Ireland captain Rory Best now have an Ulster derby on their hands and the league title could still go elsewhere.
Malone went down to the other title contenders Naas last week. The Bann will be hoping for a similar result.
Cashel (5th) v Thomond (10th), Spafield
Cashel sit outside the promotion playoff on points difference. Tipp rivals Nenagh Ormond are +52 to Cashel’s +49.
Of the two it is Cashel who have the easier match this weekend – on paper at least – as they face the already relegated Thomond.
There was only a point in it (Cashel winning 16-15) on the opening day of the season. More and better is required if Cashel are to make the top four on Saturday.
Naas (1st) v Skerries (8th), Forenaughts
A huge game for both clubs. The home side can win the Division and the automatic promotion that goes with it on Saturday afternoon.
Visitors, Skerries, on the other hand face the prospect of a possible relegation playoff if they lose and Corinthians win.
Everything to play for then in Naas on a climactic afternoon in the Ulster Bank League.
Queens (7th) v Corinthians (9th), Dub Lane
Queens are safe in mid-table while, as we saw last week, a relegation haunted Corinthians pulled out all the stops against then table toppers Banbridge.
Last game of the regular season and the Galway side have a lifeline.
They do need Naas to win – a result that should go their way – but their destiny is in their hands now.
UCC (3rd) v Nenagh Ormond (4th), Mardyke
UCC can’t win the league but they could still overtake Banbridge and earn a home draw for the promotion playoff.
Permutations and combinations mean nothing though if you don’t win and while UCC are guaranteed a top four finish a loss could see visitors Nenagh Ormond leapfrog them – although it would take a bonus point to do it.
The Tipperary side ran out 20 – 0 winners the last time they met in the league.