Now that we have recovered from the excitement of the first round of the Irish Senior and National Cups there is plenty more of interest across the 25 Open Competition matches / one Womens match and another round of Womens Super 3 T20 games in Oakhill.
The main interest today will be in the four OCD3 matches. There is little to choose between the top five teams [8 points to be precise] although Merrion II and Leinster II are undefeated so far. Leinster aren’t in action but Merrion take on Clontarf II who are looking for their first win. The top match of the day, however, is that between leaders Pembroke and second placed Phoenix in Sydney Parade. In the other fixtures YMCA II take on The Hills II and North County II host North Kildare.
In D4 the early leaders Laois are not in action. Yesterdays match between second placed Clontarf III and Merrion III was settled decisively in the latter’s favour and they are now the main challenger to Laois. But Railway Union II could join them if they can account for untested DLR County today. In the other match Malahide II, who also haven’t had any outing yet this season, play Civil Service.
In D5 the early leaders [3/3] Longford have no game and this leaves it open to the only one of the three chasing sides to have a game [Merrion IV] to challenge for the top spot.
In D6, with the leaders Leinster III not playing this weekend, second placed Malahide III have the opportunity to go top if they can secure a victory against Mullingar [who have yet to play a match this season]. With Adamstown II winning yesterday [in a tight win over Ringcommons] pressure is on Clontarf IV who need a win to stay in touch. they are away to Greystones who make their first outing of the season.
The top game in D8 gives Wicklow the opportunity to snatch the leader’s jersey from opponents Laois II. They have to win of course. In the other game a win for Swords [v Knockharley] would see them in the mix at the top of the table.
In the remaining fixtures - Tyrrelstown can go top of D10 if they win - but current leaders Balbriggan III have matches in hand. Joint leaders Sandyford II can steal a march on Merrion VI if they can win today in D11. Third placed North County IV can do themselves a lot of good if they can win v Bagenalstown II in D12. In D14 there is an important tie between second [Castleknock III] and third placed [Clontraf VI]. If Castleknock win they will take the leaders spot. Adamstown V in D15 have the chance of consolidating their position at top of the table with a win over Leinster VI [who have yet to play this season]. And finally, second placed Ringcommon II can take the lead in D16 if they can defeat Ashbourne II.
Remember to keep sending in the scores so we can update the match centre.