Queen's University returned to senior status on Saturday despite a 12-9 defeat by Highfield at Upper Malone. Johnny Patton, son of coach Keith, landed all of Queen's points.

Wynne Jarvis gave Highfield the lead with a drop-goal and a penalty to which Patton responded with two penalties. Jarvis landed two further drop-goals before Patton struck again.

Seven tries from Kilkenny earned them a 41-10 win in the other qualifying match against Westport.

Scott Norton touched down twice while the sons of two former internationals, Willie Duggan junior and Sean Byrne, also scored tries.