Ballymena v Cork Constitution, Eaton Park, 2pm: Cork Con scrumhalf Duncan Williams returns from injury, with the gulf in standards created by the new elite Division 1A making this a step too far for the Ulster men.

Also, Con would dearly love to maintain the status quo down home by beating Dolphin in the final next month, scheduled for Dubarry Park.

Away win.

Dolphin v Garryowen, Musgrave Park, 2pm

The Cork club, long in the shadow of Constitution, must be taken very seriously after a string of impressive results. James Coughlan and Nick Williams bring a power and constant go forward ball up front that makes it very hard to see Garryowen doing serious damage.

Home win.

Gavin Cummiskey