Taking Irish hockey's most immediate priority into consideration, it was encouraging that the Shamrocks won last weekend's senior interprovincial tournament at Grange Road. A team that is expected to hold its won in the European under-21 A division championship in Malaga next July needed to face experienced opposition.

Yet the exercise might have been just as useful if the stronger members of the squad had played for their provinces to give the championship its real meaning. It is conceivable, for example, that Leinster would have taken the title from Munster if they had been able to include Stephen Butler and Justin Sherriff (who scored the Shamrocks' six goals between them).

At least, Leinster should again emphasise their superiority when the under-21 championship - which could have been of more benefit last weekend - takes place in Cork in February. Leinster clubs may also be capable of making a breakthrough at all-Ireland level with, say, Pembroke Wanderers, Glenanne and Avoca becoming more galvanised than they were for the play-offs at the climax of last season's campaign.

Tomorrow, though, they must start making a greater impression at local level.

Pembroke will be seeking to unleash their front runners against Railway Union at Park Avenue, while Glenanne's latest player to gain represent honours, John Goulding, will be keen to score against Aer Lingus.

Equally, Avoca, with their quota of accomplished figures, should get the better of Corinthians. Colin Stewart, however, may again need special watching.

In Ulster, it will be a day of satisfaction for Raphoe who, in welcoming Cliftonville to Co Donegal, play on their new astroturf pitch.