ENNIS RFC is the location this weekend as Munster host Ulster in the Junior Interprovincial series, with two Ennis RFC men in contention to feature.
Ennis scrum-half Oisín Mangan earned his first cap off the bench last weekend in an entertaining draw against Leinster in Kilkenny. He will be hoping to play a role again on Saturday in Ennis along with Ennis captain Cian Guilfoyle who was unable to take part last week due to injury.
Brian Farrell, President of Ennis RFC, told The Clare Echo that it’s a significant day for the club, whose undefeated senior team were this year crowned champions of Division J3. It also marks the closing of the club’s successful centenary celebrations. “The last time we hosted a junior interprovincial game was in 1999 or 2000 when we hosted Leinster. It’s a big honour for the club and as well this year, we were very lucky that two of our players are in the squad,” he said.
“It would be great if one of them were involved on the day, the last time we had a player involved at this level was Michael McInerney back in 2011. It’s a great competition that showcases the best of club players at the junior level, and it’s a great chance to play for Munster.”
Off the pitch, there will be entertainment and family fun on the sideline, along with live music, a number of food trucks and an outside bar. “We’re hoping to draw a good crowd and with good weather, a great evening after the game.” They are also hopeful the Six Nations trophy will be showcased at the event while the U16 Munster Champions will have their medal presentation on the day.
It’s been a very successful season for Ennis RFC noted Brian, at underage and adult level with the Ladies team winning Munster Division 1 and taking part in the Munster Cup final this Friday. The Men’s team gained promotion to Division 2 while two former Ennis RFC men, Ethan Coughlan and Tony Butler, have accepted Munster senior contracts.
The club’s centenary year “exceeded expectations” added Brian, which he says invigorated members. “The positive feedback around the centenary year has really fed into our next stage of development as we look to develop a new facility. It ignited a fire among members in the club and got some past members back involved so it was great.”
Munster take on Ulster at Ennis RFC this Saturday at 2:30pm. Adults €10 | OAP & students €5.
