Garryowen v Young Munster - Dooradoyle (7.00)

Whatever about much of Garryowen's close-in running game revolving around the absent David Wallace, and to a lesser extent on the again sidelined Keith Wood, the same applies even more to the injured Clohessys and suspended Ian Dillon for Young Munster. Garryowen also have far more potency in the gifted Jeremy Staunton and those outside him.

Young Munster's defence has conceded as many tries as Garryowen (14) but the home side have scored 23 so far to Young Munster's paltry eight. With local pride and a fractionally stronger chance of a top-four place still on offer, Young Munster won't be inclined to roll over. Still, recent form points to a home win.

Last two seasons: (1997-98) Garryowen 3 Young Munster 3, (semi-final) Garryowen 24 Young Munster 10; (1998-99) Young Munster 13 Garryowen 29.

Last five games: Garryowen - W L W W L; Young Munster - W W L W L.

Leading try scorers: Garryowen - Jeremy Staunton 5, Killian Keane 3. Young Munster - Tom Cregan 3.

Leading points scorers: Garryowen - Keane 61. Young Munster - Cregan 128.

Referee: Bertie Smith (Munster).

Forecast: Garryowen to win.

Shannon V Cork Constitution - Thomond Park (7.30)

Shannon look to have chucked their hat at it judging by Saturday's poor display and with nothing to motivate them but pride, they don't look in the mood for this at all.

Some of Constitution's young leading lights, such as Ronan O'Gara, Mick O'Driscoll and John Kelly, must be feeling a bit weary, hence the latter two are sidelined tonight, as are Tommy Kiernan, Ian Murray and Jerry Murray. However, with a good start, even a coveted bonus point might be possible.

Granted, they haven't won away yet in this campaign, but with another all-or-nothing trip to Templeville looming in three days, now is a good time to start.

Last two seasons: Cork Constitution 11 Shannon 12; Cork Constitution 26 Shannon 19.

Last five games: Shannon - L W L L L; Cork Constitution - L W L W W.

Leading try scorers: Shannon - Mick Galwey, Marcus Horan, Eddie Halvey 3 each. Cork Constitution - Cian Mahony 4, Brian Walsh, Tom Kiernan 3 each.

Leading points scorers: Shannon - Conor Burke 74. Cork Constitution - Ronan O'Gara 93.

Referee: Dave McHugh (Munster).

Forecast: Cork Con to win.