Buccs away to UCD in must win duel
By Michael Silke
BUCCANEERS are away to University College, Dublin in a “must win” Ulster Bank League Division 1B duel at the Belfield Bowl on Saturday, kick off 2.30pm.
UCD are in flying form at the moment chasing leaders Ballynahinch as they seek the automatic promotion berth. But this could also be termed a 'Cup final’ from Buccs’ perspective as they simply have to win too to maintain their aspirations of snatching the play-off spot so a highly competitive affair is anticipated.
UCD demolished Dungannon 84-15 away last time out, helping themselves to 13 tries in the process. That followed key victories over pace-setters Ballynahinch (away) and Dublin University (home). They now hold second place, eight points adrift of Hinch and just a single point ahead of third-placed Trinity. Buccs are a further four points behind in fourth place.
UCD have a particularly exciting backline including recent Ireland U-20 players Andrew Boyle, Alex Kelly, Jordan Coughlan, Barry Daly and Sam Coghlan-Murray. Niall Earls and James Thornton give them decent options at half-back so Buccs cannot afford too much space to this unit, otherwise their precise handling and constant movement will mean trouble. James Tracy, Conor Gilsennan, Risteard Byrne and Eoin Joyce look the key members of a mobile pack. College are a transformed outfit this season, having survived relegation last term by surprising Dungannon in their final fixture last term.
But Buccs will glean confidence from their endeavour and industry as they over-hauled the Students in an exciting contest at Dubarry Park immediately after Christmas. The Pirates also took the honours on both occasions that the sides met last season.
Buccs were a shade unlucky to lose out to Trinity recently but, if able to field close to full strength, they have potency in their backline too to take scores. Much will depend on the Pirates’ pack (who lost Danny Qualter through injury when the sides met in January) but if the Buccs forwards front up, then a cracking contest is likely to unfold especially if the Pirates perform with graft, desire and discipline to their capabilities.
Buccaneers Development Squad complete their Connacht Junior 1B League campaign at home to Corrib on Sunday. This is another “must win” battle for Buccs but for differing reasons as they bid to keep above the westerners to keep out of the relegation dogfight.
Supporters bus
Following the decent turnout and enjoyable day out on the recent supporters bus trip to Trinity, another bus is being organised for Saturday’s UCD fixture. Those interested in travelling should contact The Bounty 090-6477566 to book or with enquiries. Fare (including breakfast): €15 return - great value!