TOP OF TABLE CLASH AT HOME TO UCC
It’s a meeting to savour on Saturday when Buccaneers host University College Cork, who celebrate their 150th year, in the sixth round of the Energia All-Ireland League at Dubarry Park on Saturday. Kick off for this hugely anticipated Division 1B clash between the Pirates and the ‘Skull & Crossbones’ is 2.30 p.m.
UCC were relegated from the topflight last season and looked on track for a swift return following four victories, including a notable 25-20 win at home to St. Mary’s College, in their opening quartet of fixtures. However, they suffered a setback when losing at home to Naas last weekend and Buccs then took over leadership in Division 1B on scoring difference.
The Students will be piqued by that loss and eager to return to winning ways so the Pirates can expect a stern College test on Saturday. Centre Daniel Squires is their leading marksman on 39 points while Sean Condon has collected 4 tries in their 5 matches. Fullback Louis Bruce captains UCC and young hooker Scott Buckley has played for Munster while lock Mark Bissessar is another key forward.
Adding spice to this fixture is the touchline contest between the head coaches, both with international reputations. Eddie O’Sullivan has returned to Buccs while Michael Bradley leads a coaching crew at UCC that includes Ken O’Connell, Scott Deasy and Paul McCarthy.
Buccs may be the dark horses to date in Division 1B but the team are playing with growing self-belief, huge commitment and workrate, and with great enjoyment pitting themselves against the best at this level. If they maintain their focus and application they can come out on top in what should be a real humdinger of a match.
PRE-MATCH FOR UCC GAME
There will be a pre-match function for next Saturday’s top of the table All-Ireland League game against UCC. Cost is only €30 per person and covers meal with complimentary wine in The Bounty, 100-page matchday programme and free admission to the game. Groups or individuals can be catered for. To book for this not to be missed game, kindly contact our Administrator Geraldine at 0861732711 or any club officer.
