Reigning all-Ireland champions Pegasus, already through to the finals after receiving a walkover, will discover the identity of their three Club Championship opponents this weekend when the second legs of the quarter-finals are played. Barring an extraordinary result at Belfield, Hermes, 4-0 up against Ballymoney from the first leg, should safely clinch their place in next weekend's finals, but it's anyone's guess who will come through the other two ties.

Loreto and Old Alexandra go in to their away games against Portadown and Cork Harlequins, respectively, 2-1 up from last weekend, but nervously aware that 1-0 defeats will see their opponents go through on away goals.

These two-leg ties are a new experience for all concerned and pose interesting challenges for the coaches involved, especially Fred McDarby (Loreto), David Judge (Old Alexandra), Alison Vance (Portadown) and Bernie Heffernan (Harlequins). Vance admitted this week to a tactical dilemma over whether to "go for the jugular" from the start or to "adopt a patient approach". That dilemma also faces Heffernan, whose Harlequins side, like Portadown, know a 1-0 win will be enough to seal the tie. Ballymoney face no such predicament: needing at least four goals against the Leinster champions they have no option but to "go for broke". Elimination from the competition will not, however, alter the fact that it's been a wonderful season for Lynsey McVicker's side who were guests of their local MP, Ian Paisley, at Stormont this week at a reception held in honour of their Irish Senior Cup triumph.

Should any of this weekend's three ties finish level, away goals included, after normal time, extra time will be played. If that fails to produce a winner the dreaded penalty strokes competition will rear its ugly head.