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CLUB REVIEW
Queen’s University (in Division 2A) and Rainey
and Dungannon (in Division 2B) are quietly going
about their business and, while it is unlikely they
will challenge for the top spots, none look in
danger of being involved in any relegation dog
fights later in the season and should retain their
league rankings. However, Belfast Harlequins will
face a tough 2016 as they search to find a solution
that will end a non winning first half to the season
in Division 1B. Nine straight defeats has left the
Deramore Park side rooted to the bottom of the
table and they are now 10 points adrift of the
rest. Head coach Adam Larkin has his work cut
out, but it will hopefully not ruin his or the players’
Christmas.
Senior rugby in Ulster received a huge boost
recently when SONI (System Operator for Northern
Ireland) announced they would be the new
sponsors of the Ulster Senior League for the next
two years.
It is just the spark this often forgotten about
competition needs and, given that there could
be further changes on the landscape ahead with
yet another revamp of the All Ireland League, the
SONI Ulster Senior League could become a more
prominent competition in the not too distant future.
Finally, Kukri Qualifying League rugby is thriving
in Ulster. The competition between the clubs in
Sections One and Two has produced quality rugby
across the Province every weekend.
As already mentioned Instonians, Bangor and
Clogher Valley are among the frontrunners in
Kukri One, and the qualification for the All Ireland
Junior Cup ensures the battle to be among the
top four increases each season. The resurgence
of Ballyclare continues to catch the eye in Section
One and it is also fantastic to see Omagh
Academicals back challenging at the top table.
In Section Two, Larne’s climb has been notable,
things are starting to turn positively again for the
men from The Glynn, while Coleraine are showing
a turn in form as well following many great years in
Section One.
However, Carrick appear to be the side on the up,
having won all seven games to date, they are the
team to beat in the promotion race.
Limavady are on the up as well, 12 straight wins in
Kukri Section Three has them 12 points clear of the
chasing pack and all bets are off!
Keep up to date with all the latest on the domestic
and All Ireland League fronts in News Letter’s Total
Rugby every Tuesday.
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