Shannon Notes May 3rd 2008.


There's no doubt what the focus is on this weekend. Coonagh will see the biggest crowd this season as the AIB league semi final and all the paraphernalia that's associated with it descends.

After 15 league games Garryowen are now the team that stands between us and another final. What we will have is a wonderful occasion for Limerick rugby and two superb teams that have earned the right to play for a place in the final. Previous games will have little bearing on either the build up or outcome and what will decide this game will most probably be a narrow margin.

Off the field preparations to ensure the smooth running of the event are in place. A traffic management system will be in place and all patrons are asked to adhere to all instructions.

Probably the most important aspect to note is that access to Coonagh is via the Clonmacken Roundabout and not through the village. This means that people going to the game will travel into the ground on the new road which is under construction adjacent to our grounds. Access through the village is through Garda issued residential permits so there is no point in travelling that route. We would advise attendees to the game to come early

Let's hope we have a great day for Limerick rugby.

Last Saturday the U/20's were beaten by UL/Bohs in the North Munster cup. The 20's have been somewhat disjointed in terms of training since the AIL and the lengthy spell between games certainly didn't help their cause. The same rationale would apply to the seconds who played Young Munster in the North Munster Cup on Monday evening. An encouraging performance saw them lead going into the closing stages of the game, but a late Young Munster try and conversion denied victory.

There was also disappointment for two our underage sides as both were beaten on Cup finals on Wednesday evening. In Coonagh the U/13's faced UL/Bohs it was a late try that saw them lose on the narrow score line of 8-7. The put in a tremendous performance and looked set to add to their league title, but a late rally by UL/Bohs saw them snatch a winner. Both sides were very evenly matched and it was a pity that they were indeed separated on this occasion, however credit to UL/Bohs. I have no doubt that as these teams progress up the ranks there'll be plenty of occasions to exact revenge.

The U/18's final wasn't quite as close and with home advantage Bruff proved just too strong despite a battling performance. It's a great credit to the coaches and the team that they even got to the final given the amount of schools tied players amongst the squad.

This Sunday sees the conclusion of the underage season with the Annual Alan Oakley day taking place. As usual this is a family day and a wonderful celebration of our fantastic underage structure. Starting at 10.30 the day will conclude with the finals at around 2.30.

The AGM will be held in the Woodfield House Hotel on the Ennis road on Thursday, May 22nd at 8 pm. Any notice of motions must be with the honorary secretary by no later than May the 8^th

Andrew McNamara,

PRO

Shannon RFC