Ulster Bank League: Division 2B Previews

The wintry weather has claimed two fixtures in Ulster Bank League Division 2B today, while City of Derry have conceded a walkover win to Dungannon. A big crowd is expected at Balreask Old for the rematch between Navan and unbeaten leaders Old Crescent.

ULSTER BANK LEAGUE: DIVISION 2B: Saturday, December 9

Kick-off 2.30pm unless stated –

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This season sees the introduction of the #UBLTry of the Month award with prize of 250 euro for each monthly winner and entry into the Try of the Year award.

MU Barnhall (5th) v Skerries (7th), Parsonstown, 2pm

A brace of tries from former Leinster winger Darren Hudson was the difference between these sides last Saturday, and coming back to Parsonstown with a 30-18 triumph and maximum points, MU Barnhall will be confident of repeating the dose.

Former Leinster Academy colleagues Hudson and Mikey Sherlock, the Skerries captain, were in direct opposition in midfield during the Holmpatrick tie. It was also a memorable occasion for the Lennox family as Conor lined out at full-back for Skerries and his teenage brother Hugo took the reins at out-half for Barnhall.

The Goats are bidding to avoid their fifth defeat on the trot. They have one of the most effective second pairings around in Tom Mulvany and Joe Glennon and need to quickly recapture their best form. Otherwise, they will be cut adrift from the business end of the table.

Belfast Harlequins (9th) – Wanderers (3rd), Deramore Park (match postponed due to unplayable pitch)

Dungannon (6th) – City of Derry (10th), Stevenson Park (Dungannon have been awarded a walkover win)

Navan (4th) v Old Crescent (1st), Balreask Old

This has all the ingredients for another pulsating encounter between two clubs who are destined to push all the way for promotion. With second-placed Rainey’s game against Sunday’s Well postponed, Crescent could give themselves a double-figures lead at the summit.

However, Navan’s recovery from an early 14-point deficit to earn a losing bonus point in Limerick (22-20) suggests that Alan Kingsley’s charges are a real danger to Crescent’s winning streak – especially with home advantage this afternoon.

Limerick man Willie Staunton has been used as an impact sub for Navan in recent weeks, and the experienced out-half could play a crucial role down the final stretch as the Meath men look to claim the scalp of the all-conquering table toppers.

Rainey Old Boys (2nd) – Sunday’s Well (8th), Hatrick Park (match postponed due to unplayable pitch)