Top-of-the-table Premier Division clash in Limerick District League action

THE main focus of the Limerick District League junior soccer schedule this weekend is in the Premier League where the top two sides meet in a game that will have a huge bearing on the destination of the Fran Mullally Trophy for the coming year.

Going into the tie, Fairview hold a six-point lead over Pike but the Hoops have a game in hand. Defeat for Pike would surely end their interest in the campaign.

Both sides have one eye elsewhere. Pike are scheduled to meet Coachford in the Munster Junior Cup final while Fairview Rgs await the winners of Salthill and North End United to see who they will play in the FAI Junior Cup final.

For Saturday evening’s game, however, these thoughts will be pushed to the back of their minds, and you can expect a full-blooded affair.

With little competition, you can expect a big crowd to add to the occasion.

Newport welcome Janesboro knowing how precious points are at this stage while Nenagh host Regional Utd in the remaining tie.

On Friday evening the Open Cup Final is scheduled for Jackman Park with a 6.30 kick-off. It features Fairview Rgs C and Ballynanty Rvs B and this clash of old rivals promises to be a cracking tie.

Both are high scoring teams and while they ply their trade in different divisions, on the night it will be a straight head on battle.

One game in the Lawson Cup sees a replay of Shelbourne v Aisling Annacotty.

The sides met two weeks back when the Premier League side won 1-0 after extra time. As the game should have gone to penalties after 90 minutes, a replay was ordered.

Shels' made life difficult for the visitors last time out and you can expect more of the same.

In the Premier A League, leaders Athlunkard Villa need four points to be crowned champions. They visit Regional Utd at the weekend, never an easy task, but appear well focused for the task.

There is plenty of action on Thursday evening. In the Premier League Newport and Geraldines continue their battle to avoid the drop.

Geraldines hope to build on last week’s win when they visit third placed Mungret Reg while Newport host Aisling. Janesboro host Regional Utd in the other tie.

In Division 1B, Herbertstown will take a big step to the crown if they beat Glenview Rvs while Shelbourne will be looking to keep pace when they visit Meanus.

In Division 2B, Balla B and Kilmallock B continue their race for the prize with both teams facing sticky assignments. Kilmallock have a local derby with Charleville while Balla B face a good Hyde Rgs B XI.