Ulster have the edge on home turf

Women's Hockey:Having ended Leinster's quest for four successive under-21 interprovincial titles last year, Ulster will defend their crown on home turf at Lisnagarvey this weekend.

The provinces have been dominant in this age group, between them winning 24 of the last 25 titles. But Munster's challenge should be boosted by the inclusion in their squad of nine UCC players, all of whom have contributed to a fine club season.

A week ago UCC beat Cork Harlequins in the league, a rare defeat for the Munster champions, despite being without two key players, Julia O'Halloran and Áine Connery (both on international duty). If they can carry that form in to this weekend, Munster might have a chance of emulating their 2001 success in the event.

Home advantage, though, should give Ulster the edge. The province open their campaign this evening against Connacht, whose under-16 side made history earlier in the season by winning their interpro tournament.

Ireland, meanwhile, complete their trip to South Africa with games against their hosts this evening and tomorrow.

FIXTURES

Under-21 Interprovincials (at Lisnagarvey) - Today: Ulster v Connacht, 6.00; South East v Leinster, 8.00. Tomorrow: Munster v Connacht, 10.30; Ulster v South East, 10.30; Munster v Ulster, 3.00; Leinster v Connacht, 3.00. Sunday:Munster v Leinster, 10.00; Connacht v South East, 10.00; Ulster v Leinster, 2.30; Munster v South East, 2.30.

Leinster League - Division Two - Tomorrow:Old Alexandra II v Loreto II, Booterstown, 12.45; Suttonians v Railway Union II, Sutton, 1.45; Pembroke Wanderers II v Hermes II, Ballsbridge, 2.00; Clontarf v Corinthian II, Clontarf, 3.00.