Clonakilty join elite at top table

Terenure 22 Clonakilty 31: Clonakilty produced a shock 31-22 victory over Terenure to become the only division two team to progress to the AIB Cup semi-final, where they will be joined by Shannon, Belfast Harlequins and Garryowen.

One imagines Terenure's focus is on retaining the division one status they attained last season. Either way, the progress of the Cork club interrupts the usual predictability of club competition.

Clonakilty hit Terenure with four first half tries - from Derek Dillon, David Spencer, Colin Murphy and Tadgh Wright - to lead 26-10 at the interval.

Belfast Harlequins also seem set on upsetting expectations and, with their continued rejuvenation, all of a sudden they look capable of surviving a relegation battle and adding some silverware. A remarkable achievement considering they lost their opening eight league games.

Despite the absence of Irish under-20s outhalf Niall O'Connor and centre Darren Cave, Harlequins crossed for three tries from flanker Chris McCarey (two) and player coach Andy Ward in a 22-19 victory over Galwegians at Deramore Park.

Elsewhere, Garryowen edged past St Mary's after extra-time thanks to a penalty from inside his own half by outhalf Eoghan Hickey.

Munster's Alan Quinlan began his return from suspension in the Shannon backrow as they beat UCD 34-24. The students were reeled back after crossing for three first half tries to lead 21-10.

Shannon dominated the second half and tries from Stephen Kelly, Sean Cronin and David Quinlan, allied to 100 per cent kicking from Andrew Thompson, saw them through.