A little later than intended we come to the final Premier league preview. Clontarf had an excellent season in 2017 but it will always be tinged with disappointment for the league title that got away. Well ahead at mid-point in the season a combination of a dip in form and a run of victories for Leinster saw them pipped at the post.

This season the team looks as strong as ever and are most pundits favourites for the title. They have a well balanced and experienced side, with a strong overseas player. But they will miss the drive that John Mooney brought to the team last year. Of perhaps greater concern will be finding ways to integrate players from their youth section into a successful and settled team. It is a problem that many clubs would wish for.

With plenty of bowling and a long batting line-up Clontarf will be competitive against all opposition and as the results from last weekend show have the potential to blow away quite a few batting line ups.