HEAVY rain affected last week's encounter, something which did not help either side, although Ballina would look to their back line at the Sports Ground tomorrow (3.0) as being one of their most important assets. It was difficult, under the circumstances, to get them going.

While they go in tomorrow knowing that they are capable of equalling the team now two divisions above them, Ballina do so with some underlying thoughts that last week was possibly the time to surprise Galwegians. Sid Hopkins's disallowed try and all that if only.

The fourth division side will be without prop John Rush who hurt his ribs last week and Michael Sheehan, who pulled a hamstring. They must also wait until today to see the condition of centres Hopkins and Ken Doherty, scrumhalf Michael Honan and lock Mark Murphy.

Galwegians are looking for their 25th title while Ballina are chasing their third and if the weather is bore benign, Ken Barrett may well get the opportunity to kick Galwegians to their landmark in less miserable circumstances.

The Galwegian pack is stronger and more mobile than that of Ballina but the team overall have been playing in recent weeks with less vigour than coach Joe Healy would like. Nevertheless they are the stronger side.