Buccs prepare to host Clontarf in daunting AIB Cup clash

BUCCANEERS stage a hugely attractive but very tough AIB Cup match at Dubarry Park, Athlone, on Saturday when they tackle league leaders Clontarf in the second round, kick-off 2.30pm. This is a daunting challenge for Buccs against a very strong physical outfit whose pack is the platform they build on. Prop Niall Treston"s try was the all-important score in their win at Young Munster last weekend. Lock Simon Crawford, wing-forward Ben Focas (who was superb for Seapoint in their AIB Junior Cup final success in Athlone two years ago) and Johnny Wickham are other key forwards. But "Tarf are not merely a bulldozing pack, for they have quality backs in wing Niall O"Brien (well known in this parish), full-back Daragh O"Shea and recent Ireland U-20 scrum-half Paul O"Donoghue. Michael Diffley and Sean Carey got some much-needed game time with Buccaneers Thirds in a friendly at Longford last Sunday and, with the midlanders having some injury doubts, both could be included in the match squad. Connacht players are on 'mid-term break' so Danny Riordan and David Gannon could both be unavailable. Paul Harte hopes to be fit but Alan Gaughan may need more time to recuperate, while Kevin Moran and Alamoti TePou are both battling to be fit. Louie Tonkin is abroad but Colin Watters and Garreth Halligan are both in line to return to action. Niall Lear could make his first competitive start. This is a huge test for Buccaneers which, in the absence of some key players, provides opportunities for others to make their mark. If they rise to the challenge, Buccs can make it very interesting for favourites Clontarf.