Tough Ties for Limerick District League Sides in Munster Junior Cup

The draw for the last 16 of the Munster Junior Cup took place this afternoon and threw up some potentially entertaining ties. Fairview Rangers are the holders of the provincial trophy after defeating St. Michaels at Turners Cross last May. The ties are due to take place on the weekend ending February 19th with dates and times to be confirmed.

There are five Limerick District League sides remaining in the competition with two sides given home advantage and three sides on their travels. Regional United have been handed the toughest assignment on paper as they take on Waterford Premier League leaders and last year’s FAI Junior Cup champions Villa FC. Villa have conceded just five goals in 7 league games and will be desperate to make an impact in this competition due to their early exit at the hands of Ferrybank in their defence of the FAI Junior Cup.

Regional United remain in both major competitions and will also enjoy home advantage this weekend as they take on Newmarket Celtic in the FAI Junior Cup. Sean Russell’s side will take confidence from a 1-1 draw with league leaders Pike Rovers last weekend.

Fairview Rangers defence continues with an away trip to Waterford Crystal. The Waterford outfit are currently fourth in the Premier League and despite travelling for the game, Fairview will be favourites to advance. In an all Limerick District League tie, Charleville will host high flying Ballynanty Rovers. Dave Dunphy’s side still remain in both major trophies while also challenging for league honours.

Players like Josh Adams, James Fitzgerald, Habideen Gbadebo and Tomas O’Connor have had a huge impact for the Northsiders this season. Charleville have had to cope with the loss of key player Cian McNamara who joined Fairview Rangers last month but earned a big win over Two Mile Borris in the last round. Nenagh AFC will be looking to build on their big win over Dunmanway in the last round when they travel to Cork to take on Avondale.

Munster Junior Cup last 16 draw:

Regional United vs Villa FC

Waterford Crystal vs Fairview FC

Avondale vs Nenagh AFC

Charleville vs Ballynanty Rovers

Shannon Town vs Newmarket Celtic

Springfield vs Peake Villa

Watergrasshill vs College Corinthians

Tramore vs Ferrybank