Just one game down for decision in the Munster Junior Leagues this weekend. It involves two Limerick sides, both of whom are in need of full points but for different reasons.
Richmond are in 6th position in the division one table while Galbally, third from the bottom and just four clear of second placed Skibbereen, are scrapping for every point they can get as the competition heads into its final stages.
Richmond have shown good form over recent weeks and after eight games they have 24 points. They have some games in hand but it is going to be difficult for them to breach a ten point gap that separates them from fourth placed Thomond.
According to the club’s press office Natalie McNamara this week, the Canal Bank side are determined to finish this campaign with a good run of results and they have no injury problems going into Saturday’s game.
They will be boosted by their bonus point victory at home against Skibbereen last week-end thanks to a last-minute try from Jeff McNamara. A five victory will be in their sights again in this game but Galbally will be sure to provide strong opposition as they showed last Sunday when they deprived Kilfeacle and District of a winning bonus on their own turf and bagged a losing point themselves after that 19-16 defeat. It was a performance that future opponents will have taken notice of.
Richmond have been scoring a decent tally of tries all season with centre Shane Halpin in really good form and Sean Considine also impressive. Out for some earlier games, the return of Brian Mullins has also been a boost for the city side and they will be fancied to move into fifth position on Saturday.
It was something of a blow for Newcastle West with Kilfeacle getting that win over Galbally to move ahead of the Limerick side in the table. Kilfeacle have a chance to make club history next weekend when they play Coolmine in the final of the All-Ireland Junior Cup, more on this in the coming days.
Fixtures Saturday, January 18, Munster Junior League 1.
Galbally v Richmond, Galbally, 2.30 pm