This year’s AIB League comes to a satisfactory conclusion for Galway clubs this weekend, but for junior club Monivea the promotion chase is still very much up for grabs.
With a bonus-point win already secured from their round one joust with Richmond, Monivea are top of the four round-robin qualifiers as they bid to gain promotion to the AIB League yet again.
The hardy annuals of this competition, Monivea now host City of Derry on Saturday (2.30pm ), and a home win would go a long way to securing that long-awaited senior berth.
Their 27 - 14 win over Richmond was a great start to the campaign, but they must be wary of a Derry side which travels needing a win. Derry were taken by surprise at home to Seapoint in round one, losing 17 - 9 at Judges Road, and if they are to have any hopes of returning to the senior ranks, a win in Monivea is vital.
Monivea will be looking for a big home support - a pity the game clashes with Connacht’s Amlin Cup quarter-final.
Also in action, but away from home, are Galwegians in division one and Corinthians in division two. Galwegians, secure in fourth place, are away to relegation-threatened Dungannon, and with everything to play for, a home win could well be achieved. However Buccaneers will be hoping Galwegians do them a favour - the midlanders face title-chasing Young Munster in a must-win contest. With only five points currently separating the last four, Buccaneers are still looking at relegation and cannot rely on other results if they are to remain in division 1B.
Corinthians will conclude a satisfying season away to DLSP. Their seventh place finish would be a huge fillip for the city side in their first season since being promoted.
Connemara are the only club at home. They are also secure in division three, but can expect a tough challenge from Naas who need a win to ensure their status next year.
