BUCCS HOME TO OLD BELVEDERE
BUCCANEERS entertain Old Belvedere in their Energia All-Ireland League Division 1B fixture at Dubarry Park on Saturday. Kick-off is 2.30 p.m. for this Glasson Lakehouse sponsored match.`
A young Buccs squad have lost their opening three matches but there were shoots of improvement when going down to Highfield last time out. With improved decision-making and a reduction in penalty concessions, the Pirates can readily step up their performances. Danny Qualter was forced off though injury in Cork and his availability and that of James Kelly are the midlanders main concerns. Otherwise, there is unlikely to be much change in their matchday squad.
Old Belvedere lost their opening two games but earned losing bonus points in both encounters while they secured their first win when defeating Blackrock College in a high-scoring tie 43-40 two weeks ago. Scrumhalf and captain Peter O’Beirne and winger Jack Keating are try-scoring threats while Mick O’Kennedy and David Wilkinson are reliable from placed balls. Conor Owende, Conor Dowling and Kiwi Kale Thatcher are key men in the pack while another New Zealander Jayden Bennett shores up the centre.
Both teams will be keen to get a run of favourable results so a tough battle seems likely. With decent home support, the Athlone side can edge the contest.
CELEBRATE LEO GALVIN’S CAP AT PRE-MATCH ON SATURDAY
Buccaneers pre-match function for Saturday’s Energia All-Ireland League game at home to Old Belvedere will celebrate Leo Galvin finally receiving his Ireland cap. This should attract a large attendance so early booking with our Administrator Geraldine at 0861732711 is recommended. Cost is €35 per person which covers meal and complimentary wine as well as free admission to the match. Bookings can be made for individuals or groups. Meal is at 12.45 p.m.
