Sligo’s journey in the AIB all Ireland Junior Cup continues when they face Leinster league high fliers Tullamore at their home in Spollanstown next Saturday. Sligo will be looking to continue their rich vein of form following their well crafted victory over Munster side Clonmel in the first round last week.
Tullamore are the current holders of this Cup, having defeated Navan RFC in a thrilling final last April, come into the game on the back of a tough away victory in Coleraine which gave everyone a clear signal of their intent to do their utmost to retain the trophy.
So far this season Sligo have delighted their supporters with their high tempo expansive game, winning their first 5 Connacht junior league matches, securing 4 bonus points, and clocking up a massive 27 tries in the process. However, the victory over Clonmel, in very difficult conditions, showed that when required this team are not afraid to roll up the sleeves and grind out a victory.
Sligos pack have been the cornerstone to their success so far this season and will again have to be at their best to overcome what is likely to be a very physical Tullamore 8. Prop forwards Jason East and Adrian Mc Hale will need to put in a big effort to ensure a solid platform in the scrum. In the lineouts, Hooker Gary Conneely will want to ensure he connects with James Wilson and Peter Mullan. Jamie Bowes and Trevor Sweeney will be looking to carry over the hard yards and Cathal Culhane will be have to be at his best at the breakdown.
Behind the Scrum Billy Leahy is likely to continue his partnership with Niall O Hara and a good service from Leahy is vital to allow O Hara the space to control the game. At inside centre Gavin Foley will be relied on to again marshal what is already a mean defence and at outside centre Sligo will be hoping Jordan Farrington is at his creative best to try to unlock the midlanders defence.
The back three of David Gerrity, Jack Macklin and Gary Collins should see plenty of action and Sligo will be looking to use their pace at every opportunity.
Kick off is at 2.30 in Tullamore and a supporters bus is available.For details contact the club secretary at 0868478614
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