Leinster have made three changes in the team to face Connacht in their final game in the interprovincial campaign at Donnybrook on Saturday. Connacht, who announced an unchanged side from last weekend face into a match that could, if the results go their way, be the saving of them with regards to next year's European Cup.
But the permutations aside Connacht will need only go back to last year when they beat Leinster 22-13 in Galway and with the unchanged set up reflecting a growing confidence by coach Warren Gatland in his side, Leinster may well feel the pressure despite the comfort of a home setting. They too need to win this match and of course will be emphasising the result of the 1995 season where Leinster won 41-9 in Dublin.
St Mary's winger John McWeeney, who showed strong handling skills and impressive pace last season for his club (whenever he got possession) comes in for Dara O'Mahony to make his interprovincial debut. Greystones' Reg Corrigan, who also makes his debut, replaces prop Henry Hurley in the second move that has come about because of O'Mahony and Hurley's ties with English club side Mossley. It is believed that O'Mahony is contracted to the club and Hurley is, apparently, in the process of finalising his arrangement. As a result neither player is available for selection.
Blackrock's Tony Goldfinch also displaces Colin McEntee in the open side flanker position in the hope that the New Zealander's mobility and pace can generate greater continuity in the home pack.
Goldfich, who came highly recommended from Hawksbay had been suffering from a hamstring injury sustained when he did a speed session soon after arriving in Ireland. He is now deemed strong enough for the rigours of a full interprovincial game. Trevor Brennan played the position last week in the reshuffled back row.
Other injuries to key players have been overcome leaving Ciaran Clarke (foot) at full back, Dennis Hickie (ankle) on the wing, Angus McKeen (flu) at tight head, Aaron Freeman (eye), Trevor Brennan (shoulder) and Victor Costello (toe) all available to face the Connacht pack.
"John (McWeeney) has impressed me. He's been a little raw at times but he's a very powerful player, quick and very strong. Even when he's tackled he has the strength to do something with it. At the moment we're trying to progress to Europe and develop a team long term. I think he deserves his chance," said coach Mike Ruddock.
"Leinster will be highly motivated for this match because they know that Connacht want to qualify for Europe for the first time. Their motivation is there but we must have it as well because we also have to win the game."
Munster, who head the current table with two wins from two face Ulster at Ravenhill Road and implement two personal changes and two positional switches. Winger Alan Thompson and scrum half Brian O'Meara find themselves on the `A' side this weekend. Steve McIvor comes in directly for O'Meara with Conor Mahony coming into the centre forcing Mick Lynch onto the wing for Thompson.
In the loose head position Munster have not yet decided who will play as both Gavin Walsh and Ian Murray are hoping for injuries to clear.
"Steve McIvor came on as a replacement and did well," says Munster manager Gerry Holland. "There is not a lot between himself and Brian (O'Meara). Both are contracted Irish players and both are good in the position. Obviously we're giving Steve a break but at this stage of the season there is still a long way to go.
"I think we have improved since the Connacht match and we are well aware of the Ravenhill record. We have not won there for 18 years and that tells it's own story."
