Buccaneers welcome UCC to Dubarry Park for their first home fixture of the new Energia All-Ireland League Division 1B season.
The Pirates recorded a double over UCC last season. Winning impressively in Athlone but securing a costly victory at The Mardyke where three players incurred season-ending injuries.
Overall, the midlanders surpassed expectations last term; under a new in-house coaching team of Paul Byrne, Benny Gilligan and David Henshaw plus manager Craig Milling. Consolidation is again the priority this season.
Buccaneers have lost some of their more seasoned operators. The current squad is less experienced featuring many local players, with a new captain Frank Hopkins leading mainly young teammates.
The midlanders should be bolstered by the returns from RWC duty of Shane Layden, Michael Hanley and Ryan O’Meara who all missed last week’s game away to St. Mary’s College.
Buccs did not enjoy much luck at Templeville Road; but will be eager to bounce back with a positive result against UCC.
The Students are naturally youthful too so a lively, open style of rugby is anticipated in this contest between Pirates and the Skull & Crossbones!
Upcoming AIL Fixtures
Buccaneers next AIL fixture is a trip south to the other Cork club in 1B, Highfield, on Saturday next while our next home AIL game takes place on Saturday, November 4th.
Old Belvedere will be the visitors and will be the occasion of our first ‘Pre-match Event’ of the season in The Bounty. Please contact our Administrator Geraldine at 086-1732711 to book.
