Opening group matches in the Gordon West Cup for Qualifying three and four leagues – take place this weekend. Current holders Holywood along with Larne, PSNI, Ophir, Donegal and Newry will be the main challengers.
Group A
Armoy v BHSFP at Limepark. Armoy to win.
Ophir v PSNI at Magowan Park. Ophir have already opened their league campaign with an emphatic 55 – 11 win over BHSFP. PSNI to win.
Group B
Civil Service v Holywood at Stormont. Local derby with Holywood favourites to win.
Lurgan v Larne at Pollock Pk. Lurgan opened their league programme with a defeat to Newry 23 – 20. Larne will want to bounce back from relegation last season. Under the guidance of coach Laurence Kelly they have already won the Randalstown xv a side tournament and suffered a recent narrow defeat to neighbours Carrick 23 – 22. Larne to win.
Group C
In the All Donegal derby at the Dave Gallagher Memorial Park, Letterkenny entertain Donegal Town. On paper you would predict a home win for Letterkenny. Donegal sent out a strong message last Sat when they defeated Monaghan 68 – 0 in their opening league game. Donegal to win.
With only three teams in this group Londonderry YMCA have no game.
Group D
Fascinating Cavan v Monaghan fixture at Swellan Park. Monaghan will want to bounce back from their league defeat last Sat. Cavan neighbours Virginia play the in form Newry at Deerpark. There is a resurgence in rugby in the South Down club. Newry to win.
