Round 18 of the Energia All-Ireland Division 1B brought a lot of crucial fixtures, as playoff seeding was at stake in the final round.
League leaders Old Wesley had nothing to lose on the final day, having locked up the no.1 seed already. Whilst Shannon and Highfield fought valiantly for the right to host the second semi-final.
Shannon 61-12 Old Wesley, Thomond Park
Shannon produced a break-taking display as they thrashed league leaders Old Wesley 61-12 at Thomond Park.
The hosts produced arguably the best performance of the season, as they racked up a 35-5 lead at the break, before adding a further four tries in the second period to hand the league leaders just their second defeat of the season.
Despite the result, Shannon failed to overtake Highfield in second, after Highfield’s narrow win against St Mary’s College at Templeville Road. Whilst Old Wesley, who were already guaranteed the no.1 seed will welcome Naas to Energia Park in the playoffs.
Naas 53-7 Old Belvedere, Forenaughts
Naas scored seven tries as they hammered Old Belvedere 53-7 at Forenaughts to wrap up the final playoff spot in Division 1B.
For the hosts the situation was simple – win and you are in, and Naas did just that. The hosts produced an attacking masterclass in the second half, as they registered a whopping 31 points after the break to earn a trip to Old Wesley in two weeks.
St Mary’s College 24-28 Highfield, Templeville Road
Highfield scored four tries as they wrapped up the second seed in a thrilling 24-28 win at Templeville Road against St Mary’s College.
The visitors looked to be in danger of losing their grip on the second seed, as St Mary’s College fought back from 10-21 down to lead 24-21 with just 13 minutes remaining.
However, John McLoughlin’s try ensured Highfield will be hosting Shannon in the second semi-final in two weeks time.
Navan 24-64 Malone, Balreask Old
Malone guaranteed their Division 1B status as they hammered Navan 24-64 at Balreask Old.
The visitors knew a win would guarantee their survival, and made easy work of an underwhelming Navan outfit. Malone scored eight tries as they wrapped up a difficult season with back to back wins.
City of Armagh 18-28 Banbridge, Palace Grounds
Banbridge scored two penalty tries as they defeated City of Armagh 18-28 at the Palace Grounds to earn their fifth win of the season.
Despite failing to overtake Malone in eighth, the visitors head into their relegation playoff with Navan on good form, after winning two of their last four games.
