All-Ireland League Previews

Division One

St Mary's v Lansdowne (Templeville Road)

A CLASH that promises running, entertaining fare. St Mary's College produced an excellent opening 20 minutes last week, inspired by Conor McGuinness. This match will pose a different test for their young backline. Lansdowne were no less impressive initially.

Centres Ray McIlreavy and Peter McKenna face Kurt McQuilkin and Shane Horgan in a fascinating duel. The battle up front may sway it St Mary's way. If so, coupled with the absence of Lansdowne's Barry Everitt, the home side may just squeak a victory.

Forecast: St Mary's College.

Last year: Lansdowne 10 St Mary's 42.

Galwegians v Blackrock (Crowley Park)

THE Connacht team were found wanting in several respects last week, notably in the front row, but their suffering should not be as pronounced this week. Galwegians will turn to captain Eric Elwood for inspiration and to generate a greater fluidity to their performance. They have to use their ability in the three-quarter line.

Blackrock's defence was most impressive last week, particularly in the centre and through the work of their backrow. Unchanged, they will foster a similar work ethic but that might not be quite enough. Galwegians to improve.

Forecast: Galwegians.

Last year: No corresponding fixture.

Clontarf v Buccaneers (Castle Avenue)

Primarily a battle of the packs, where both teams are very strong. Buccaneers captain Brian Rigney would love a war of attrition where the collective might and ball-carrying ability of Jimmy Screene, Martin Cahill and impressive New Zealander Martin Steffert would be invaluable.

Clontarf allowed Garryowen to escape last week through missed penalties. They will need to be competitive up front if they are going to win. Extremely close call.

Last year: No corresponding fixture.

Forecast: Clontarf.

Division Two

City Of Derry v Sunday's Well (Branch Road)

Difficult assignment for the Cork visitors and a true test of their credentials as promotion candidates. Have had to cope with the loss of right wing John O'Neill to Munster duty. Should still be strong enough.

Forecast: Sunday's Well.

Dolphin v Old Crescent (Musgrave Park)

The Limerick team experienced some teething problems in their first outing last week but should still have the quality to sneak through.

Forecast: Old Crescent.

Greystones v Old Belvedere (Dr Hickey Park) THE home side battled bravely against Dungannon last week, but Belvedere were impressive winners first time out and must be favoured against a young team.

Forecast: Old Belvedere.

Malone v Wanderers

THE Belfast club displayed an unusual grittiness last week in their draw against UCC. The mercurial Ulstermen are always a tougher proposition at home and should prove too strong for a Wanderers team enjoying a mixed campaign to date.

Forecast: Malone.

Old Wesley v Skerries OLD Wesley have lost twice already and were soundly beaten last time out. It is difficult to see them getting any solace today.

Forecast: Skerries.