Key fixture this weekend is the match between Ballyclare and Omagh at the Cloughan, that could decide the outcome of the league this season. It is a must win game for the Tyrone side if they are to maintain their pursuit of Ballyclare. A win for Omagh could allow teams like Lisburn, Academy, Randalstown and Carrickfergus back into the hunt.
Ballyclare v Omagh
Once again another big game is down for decision at Cloughan this weekend. The crowds have been filling the pre match lunches due to the attractive nature of the games being played. In recent weeks the Clare side have shown why they are being labelled as promotion favourites as they have had to dig deep and win games against Grosvenor, Academy and a nail biting derby with neighbours Carrickfergus last Saturday. Injuries have mounted with Captain Robert Boyd and number 8 Willy Logan picking up knocks last Saturday. Coach Bob Young has confidence in his playing squad as he has had to rotate players due to unavailabilities and injuries. Gary Clotworthy in the backs has shown his versatility in recent weeks and along with the experienced Collie Morrow have become key members of the backline. Up front Graeme and Jordan McKinstry along with Gary Weatherup have been ever present in the forwards. Omagh recorded an emphatic four try win over Randalstown last Saturday to maintain their promotion push. Coach Phil Marshall and Captain Andrew Ferguson know that they cant have a repeat performance when they lost 42 – 10 away to Ballyclare in the Junior Cup. Three yellow cards during the game did not help their cause. Fascinating game to call. Expect Ballyclare to win. For Omagh this is a Cup Final.
Carrickfergus v Academy
Another Antrim derby with two teams who are placed mid table. Carrick pushed league leaders Ballyclare all the way before losing 29 – 15 last Saturday. Academy had to hang on at Roughfort to win 23 – 22 at home to Grosvenor. Carrick have improved after a slow start to their season. Under player coach Jonny Cullen they have tightened up their defence and have a real match winner in full back Aaron McKinney. Captain Andy Kinkaid will want his team to continue their progress. Carrick to win
Randalstown v Grosvenor
Coach Gary Longwell was pleased with the performance of his side at Omagh despite their defeat. Randalstown will want to avenge a 22 – 15 defeat at home to Grosvenor in the Junior Cup. Their inability to convert their kicks cost them this game. Grosvenor are a well organised side and have been unlucky not to secure points on their travels to Academy and Ballyclare. Grosvenor to win
Strabane v Enniskillen
On paper you would go for an Enniskillen win. With ex Enniskillen player Willy Balfour coaching the North West side their is an added spice to this fixture. Omagh were the last side to visit Strabane and struggled to record a 17 – 3 win. Strabane have yet to win their first league game. In their last outing at Carrickfergus they were well beaten by 59 – 9. Enniskillen recorded their third win of the season when they defeated Limavady 25 – 17 at the weekend. This was a much needed win for coach Alastair McKee. Enniskillen to win
