This weekend's matches

SATURDAY

Ballymena v Buccaneers, Eaton Park

Both teams have had miserable opening rounds but Buccaneers appear in a worse state than their hosts this afternoon. Ballymena were narrowly beaten by Garryowen and Shannon - arguably still the best two teams around - so their big pack will be keen to exact punishment and regain some respectability for their home venue.

Referee: M Gargan (Leinster).

Last two games: Ballymena - LL. Buccaneers - LL .

Verdict: home win

Belfast Harlequins v Terenure, Grafton Arena Judging from their home victory over Dungannon, Terenure are set for a secure enough campaign, provided they can sneak a few victories on the road. However, this doesn't look like being one of those.

Referee: L Colgan (Ulster).

Last two games: Belfast Harlequins - L. Terenure - WL.

Verdict: home win

Dungannon v Constitution, Stevenson Park

Cork Constitution look set to make Dungannon the early season favourites for relegation providing they maintain their early season form that includes victories over Clontarf and Blackrock. After last season's disappointment, an intensive recruitment drive has Constitution on course to finally end Shannon's dominance.

Referee: E O'Dowd (Leinster).

Last two games: Dungannon - LL. Cork Constitution - WW.

Verdict: Away win

Galwegians v Shannon, Crowley Park

Connacht's trip to Bath today all but rules out any chance of a surprise. Shannon under Mick Galway's guiding hand have recovered from a mass exodus of players to maintain their heavyweight status. Especially up front.

Referee: J Carvill (Leinster).

Last two games: Galwegians - LW. Shannon - WW.

Verdict: Away win

St Mary's v Garryowen, Templeville Road

St Mary's have improved their squad this season and look to have plenty of access to Leinster fringe player Jonathan Sexton but the backrow and halfback combinations Garryowen bring to Dublin should see them through.

The teams are playing for the Shay Deering trophy in memory of the former Irish backrower who represented both clubs.

Referee: J Peak (Ulster).

Last two games: St Mary's - WL. Garryowen - WW.

Verdict: Away win.

UCD v Lansdowne, Belfield Bowl

UCD are another club facing into a disastrous start to the season. For all the talent that comes through the students system there is very little they can do while waiting for under-20 players to evolve into senior club players.

Lansdowne will see this as a prime opportunity to keep their season on track. Kiwi Mana Ashford is expected to return to Liam Toland's side for the short trip up to campus.

Referee: P Smith (Canada).

Last two games: UCD - LL. Lansdowne - LW.

Verdict: Away win.

SUNDAY

Dolphin v Blackrock, Musgrave Park

This is a season-defining game for both clubs as each comes in with the viewpoint that failure to overcome the other all but negates their play-off potential. High stakes.

Blackrock's opening day win at Buccaneers and almost beating Cork Con should have provided the confidence levels to beat the recently promoted opposition.

Referee: M McKay (Ulster).

Last two games: Dolphin - W. Blackrock - LW.

Verdict: Away win.

UL Bohemians v Clontarf, Thomond Park

UL Bohemians have managed to back up last season's form and victory here would automatically make them contenders for the title. A magnificent feat, if they can pull it off, considering they were a division two club 18 months ago.

Referee: M Kilgore (Ulster).

Last two games: UL Bohs - WW. Clontarf - WL.

Verdict: Home win.