AIL Preview: Division 1A Promotion/Relegation Play-Off Semi-Finals

Two promotion playoffs in 1B as Old Belvedere, Highfield, and Old Wesley fight for a place in division 1A next season alongside already promoted City of Armagh, with Shannon looking to avoid the drop.

Old Belvedere vs Highfield, Sat April 22nd, Castle Avenue, 2:30pm

Just five points separated these two sides in Division 1B and the prize at stake on Saturday is a one off opportunity to be promoted to the top flight.

Former All-Ireland League champions in 2011 Old Belvedere have lost just five times this season while Highfield were beaten seven times.

In the first meeting in November, Highfield were victorious 21-10 on their own patch but Old Belvedere returned the favour in February with a 22-7 win.

Shannon vs Old Wesley, Sat April 22nd, Thomond Park, 2:30pm

It’s strange that it’s come to this as one of the giants of AIL rugby, nine-time winners Shannon face relegation from the top flight after finishing ninth.

The opportunity beckons for Old Wesley who finished fourth in Division 1B and are yet to lift any AIL silverware in their history.

I am a Sports Journalism & PR graduate from Staffordshire University. During my time at Final Whistle, I have covered the LOI National League, international games and the Women’s National League. Outside of Final Whistle, I am a researcher for World Rugby and a writer for The Rugby Paper.

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