On semi-final day of the Energia All-Ireland League season, the sun is predicted to beam gloriously across all five divisions. There has not been such a close contest between the top four, namely Clontarf, Lansdowne, Young Munster, and Cork Con, since the 2016-17 season, when they ended on a similar level.
Moving seven seasons ahead, an intriguing encounter can be seen as Terenure, Clontarf, and Lansdowne return to the semi-finals, with a mere seven-point difference separating the top and bottom. This is a sharp contrast from the previous margins that ranged from 15 to 26 points.
With the semi-finals being broadcast on Irish Rugby TV, Lansdowne and Terenure will kick-off at Lakelands Park at 4.30pm. In the wake of their 12 continual victories, they are expected to be the crowd favourites.
The semi-final line-up sees Luke Clohessy returning to the squad as Harrison Brewer resumes his lock position. Also, Lansdowne brings back their key players post their triumph over Young Munster.
Expressing versatility in their attacking strategy, Terenure fared better than Lansdowne in recent encounters and emerged victorious both times. Yet, Lansdowne is a formidable adversary known for its overall strength.
The matches at Temple Hill are set to be nail biters, as the home side, Con, prepares for its first home final in half a decade. Their recent win over Clontarf, where they evened out a previous loss, suggests an exciting showdown.
Con has a strong home record this season, with only a single loss, and ten victories from 11 home semi-finals. However, Clontarf is well versed in the game and typically makes the most out of opportunities in the red zone.
Rob Hedderman, in the full-back position, Luke Masters in the tight-head role and Ronan O’Sullivan as openside have all been reinstated for Con. Despite having lost half of their last eight matches, ‘Tarf has been boosted by the reintegration of Noah Sheridan as fullback, Ben Murphy in the number 9 position, Josh Murphy as lock, and JJ O’Dea on the flank.
The semi-finals of the 1A/1B playoffs will be hosted by the well-versed Shannon against Old Belvedere, with the prospects of bonus points. The consistent pair of Old Wesley, who have faced some setbacks in the playoffs but remain persistent, and Garryowen are poised to clash in Donnybrook.
Moving to the third division, the upcoming Queen’s-Banbridge Ulster derby is anticipated to be a narrow match, with similar expectations for the match between Cashel-Barnhall. Additionally, a significant day awaits Galway, as the Corinthians and Galwegians prepare to host Wanderers and Bruff in the promotion/relegation playoffs of 2A/2B and 2B/2C, before Connacht welcomes Zebre at home.