Almost like halcyon days, Dublin University are relishing a remarkably successful season, having virtually earned a return to premier status in Leinster with an unbeaten record in the second division, in addition to reaching the fourth round of the Irish Senior Cup. Tomorrow, though, comes their sternest test when they meet North Down at Santry after edging out three other Ulster sides, including Antrim at the second attempt.
Trinity are perhaps fortunate that once again they have home advantage but that may not count to a significant degree this time. North Down, having gained promotion with the aid of several ex-Holywood players, are settling into the top grade in northern circles. Notably, they gained a 4-3 away win over Cookstown last weekend, so they may well put the students under pressure.
Nevertheless, Trinity can rely on particularly sturdy midfield performances by Greg Dunne and Michael Harte while attackers Charlie Carroll and Christian Judd have the credentials of having been members of the Three Rock Rovers squad which got to the 1999 final.
The holders, Cork C of I, seem set to keep going fluently tomorrow with a home tie against Mossley but Munster's other survivors, Harlequins, face a tough away assignment at Banbridge. As regards Leinster hopes, even if Trinity don't make it, at least two Dublin sides will still be involved in the last-eight stage because of the all-local pairings - Pembroke Wanderers v Railway Union and Corinthians v Avoca.
Stephen Stewart, who netted a last-minute goal when Pembroke gained a 2-2 league draw at Park Avenue, has recovered from flu to return to the front line for the Serpentine Avenue game, though there could be a reshuffle with Justin Sherriff switching from midfield to a more familiar striking role. Railway may not be able to field a full-strength side and they would need full power to penetrate the strongest defence in the province.
Corinthians' more consistent form of late will make them favourites in the Whitechurch Park tie, yet perhaps Avoca's Senior and Junior Cup double of 1996-97 will somehow unearth fresh inspiration.
In Ulster, the plum match of the round involves Annadale earnestly taking on unrelenting Instonians (for whom Paul Hollway's availability will be a key factor) while Lisnagarvey will be fancied against Cookstown. Also set to survive are Cliftonville at the expense of modest Kilkeel.
