Shannon will know later today whether they have received official clearance to play their All-Ireland League game against Buccaneers at Thomond Park. It is anticipated that the Munster Branch will agree to their request.

John O'Sullivan Official sources intimated that the pitch, which had undergone complete re-sodding, was ready for play in time for the last round of matches on December 19th and that Bohemians, co-tenants at Thomond Park with Shannon, could have played their home game there on that date. Instead they took the match to Annacotty.

Shannon will definitely be without flanker Alan Quinlan who was sent off against Blackrock College. His suspension will be known later today. Rhys Ellison is another absentee having returned home to New Zealand for Christmas.

Blackrock must plan without scrum-half Andrew Boyd who misses the trip to Cork because of a damaged shoulder. Nicky Assaf will deputise. Brian Carey, though also nursing a shoulder injury, is expected to be available.

Influenza has laid low several of the Young Munster team including Derek Tobin, Mark Hayes, Brian Buckley and Mick O'Halloran. Opponents Galwegians will be without prop Mick Finlay, sent off the last day, and replacement hooker David Lee. The latter will be out for two to three weeks with a neck injury.

Garryowen and Ballymena, both unbeaten, report no injuries but won't finalise their sides until later in the week. Hamstring victim Stanley McDowell could return for the Ulster club.