Today
Garryowen v Old Belvedere
Last week's defeat by Dolphin presents a serious setback to Garryowen's genuine play-off aspirations. They need performances of greater quality from some of their established players and can't afford to be similarly lax against a Belvedere side desperate for points. Peter McKenna's return to action aside, there shouldn't be too much joy for the visitors.
Shannon v Clontarf
Complacency is the only factor that would prevent a Shannon victory and a comprehensive one at that. After a mediocre opening game they rattled up 50 points against Old Crescent, who in turn should have beaten Clontarf on the opening day. For the Dublin side, travelling in hope will seem a great deal better than arriving at Thomond Park.
St Mary's College v Dungannon
Shorn of several quality individuals, St Mary's are at their most vulnerable. Traditionally Dungannon give the Dublin pretenders a tough match and, opposed by a young home team, will relish the prospect of an upset. A test of character as much as ability for St Mary's, but one they should pass.
Ballymena v Blackrock College
Nelie Smith's charges have enjoyed back-to-back victories over two of the weaker teams in the division: today they are presented with a first real test. Blackrock's penchant for Jeckyl and Hyde rugby is frustrating for their supporters. Irrespective of which persona turns up at Eaton Park, Ballymena should prove too competent.
Dolphin v Young Munster
Terry Kingston's men conjured a superb victory against Limerick opposition last week and, at Musgrave Park, will be confident of repeating the dose. If they can match Munsters' power up front, then they have the edge behind the scrum, particularly out wide. Dolphin to march on.
Tomorrow
Lansdowne v Terenure College
On the premise that Lansdowne can not be as bad as last week and with the return of Leinster captain Kurt McQuilkin and promising youngster Shane Horgan in the centre, then the home side present dangerous opponents for a Terenure side that played some terrific rugby for 15 minutes against St Mary's. Lansdowne to upset the odds.
Old Crescent v Cork Constitution
Jed O'Dwyer's return as coach will offer guidance from the sidelines but that in itself will not be enough unless there is a huge improvement from the Limerick side. Constitution have started the season dreadfully but do have talented young players in Ronan O'Gara and Brian O'Meara in pivotal positions. They should just sneak home in a tight tussle.
