In recent years the Leinster Senior League has opened up. That is a good thing, with any of six or seven teams in with a chance of reaching the top four next year and any of four sides who could win the championship. This weekend Corinthians meet Dublin University at Grange Road in a game they should win. If they have ambitions to covet the league, which they should have, three points are expected and nothing else will do.
The Australian influence aside at Whitechurch Park, Corinthians have developed into a team that have engaged in a policy of attacking hockey with a solid defence. Their defeat of Avoca will have inflated confidence and that is as it should be. But players such as Paul Armitage and Colin Stewart should set the agenda against Trinity, although the students are a team that could very well upset a side on the way up. However, they are unlikely to do so this time.
Pembroke are the trend setters this year and the momentum they have generated should take them to victory at Three Rock Rovers. Liam Canning has, apparently, served out his ban for naughtiness last year and should be a factor, but the blur of new names, talented as they are, suggests that Rovers are rebuilding. At Monkstown Justin Sheriff among others, is becoming an exciting player. Strong and skilful, his talent is welcome in the Borough. With Alan Tolerton coaching, the side have generated a frisson of expectation and UCD will suffer as a result.
Avoca play Railway Union in what is always a grudge match. "I wouldn't write us off just yet. There is still a cup in us and we will compete in the league. We are playing off 12 or 13 players but with David Hanna, Rory Kirwan and Robbie Ryan in the frame to come back at some stage we'll be stronger," says Simon Filgas, the Avoca coach. Glenanne face YMCA and the St Mark's team should not be unduly concerned. Graham Shaw up front is a good hockey player in a team of talent. Despite their defeat in the Top Four tournament midweek at the hands of Avoca, they will expect to challenge at the end of the season. A win tomorrow should send them on their way.
Fixtures: Leinster Senior League - Division One - Dublin University v Corinthians, Grange Road (1.45); Glenanne v YMCA, St Mark's (1.0); Monkstown v UCD, Rathdown (1.30); Pembroke Wanderers v Three Rock Rovers, Serpentine Avenue (1.15); Railway Union v Avoca, Park Avenue (3.0). Division Two: Clontarf v Carlow, ALSAA (2.0); Eastern Health v Aer Lingus, High School (3.0); Kilkenny v St James Gate, Scanlon Park (2.0); Portrane v Suttonians, Dardistown (12.15).
