Rainey 1st XV return to action

The Connacht men are led by former Irish prop Peter Bracken, who had spells with Munster, Connacht and London Wasps. They are much improved from the side who avoided relegation last season.

Bracken has under seen a huge turn in their fortunes and they currently sit in a comfortable mid table position.

Last season they pushed Rainey all the way in their league clash. They were known throughout the league as being notoriously poor travellers but they have suddenly began to pick up points on the road.

They had an impressive victory at Musgrave Park recently and they will be keen to leave Hatrick Park for something to show for their efforts.

Rainey are boosted by the return O’Kane, Stewart, Hill and Harbinson. The home side will be hoping to keep up the pressure on leaders Cashel with a victory over the Connemara Blacks. Rainey will also need to make use of home advantage of their tie against Ulster rivals Armagh to ensure they remain in contention.

Rainey 4th XV faced Cookstown in a local derby at Hatrick Park last Saturday. It was a hard fought clash between two competitive sides. In the end Cookstown superior time spent on the training paddock left them 10-0 winners.

It was a gritty first half and McGoldrick nearly broke the deadlock after a clever chip and catch.

The Rainey scrum was functioning superbly but the line-out was slow to get working efficiently. Cookstown took both of their tries superbly and they killed off any chance of a Rainey comeback after they scored a second half try.

Rainey 3rd XV were in action as they were defeated 45-13 by Academy 2nd XV at Mallusk.

The Under 19s were in action against Monaghan. They were 29-12 winners with tries from Donaghy, Kearney, McCusker and Murray.

Fixtures for Saturday 28th January.

1st XV v Connemara (H) 2.30pm

2nd XV v Banbridge - Towns Cup (A)

4th XV v Tir Chonnail - Butler Shield (A)