Shannon v Harlequins: Shannon's hopes of making it a Cork-Limerick AIB League final at Lansdowne Road on May 8th - should Cork Constitution beat Buccaneers today - suffered a blow this week.
Even the reserves at the famed Limerick breeding ground are feeling the strain in advance of today's semi-final due to Alan Gaffney's - understandable - decision to play a second string side in Cardiff last night. Six of the Shannon pack were in the Munster 22.
Not surprisingly, coach Geoff Moylan has resisted the temptation to name a starting 15 until this morning. In the forwards any number of combinations could be selected but if the front-liners don't start expect to see several quality introductions from the bench.
Injury has definitely ruled out number eight Garrett Noonan after he hurt his ankle in a challenge match last week, and also out is hooker James Blaney, while prop Gary McNamara is fighting for fitness.
At least the back line should have a familiar look to it, with full back John Lacey the only doubt, and Tom Cregan's boot will punish any indiscretion from Harlequins.
Harlequins have fewer problems as only second-row Louis Stevenson is missing, through a shoulder injury. Darren Barbour moves to lock with Stuart Lamb coming into the back row.
The sides met at the same venue in round three of the competition, with Shannon running out 15-6 victors. Harlequins only began to hit a rich vein of form in the second part of the campaign.
Their danger men are undoubtedly winger Willem Slabbert and scrumhalf Reece Spee, who are both capable of scoring tries from far out. Special attention will be required for both. AJ Derwin can also cause plenty of problems from outhalf if he is afforded the time and space.
Considering the disruption to the Shannon pack, Harlequins may well be set for a famous victory if they hit the ground running. Anything less will simply not be enough against the most consistent team in Ireland, who are in search of a third league crown in seven years.
BELFAST HARLEQUINS: J Lowe; W Slabbert, S Wilson, G Mitchell, C Atkinson; A Derwin, R Spee; J Carey, R Best (capt), S Shawe, D Barbour, L McGowan, S Lamb, P Minnis, C McCarey.
SHANNON (possible): J Lacey; T Cregan, B Tuohy, E Cahill, M Lawlor; A Thompson, F O'Loughlin; G McNamara, J Flannery/N Conroy, F Roche; T Hogan, B Buckley; E Halvey, C McMahon/J O'Connor, T Hayes (capt).
Referee: O Trevor (Cork)
Last three matches: Shannon - LWL Belfast Harlequins - WWW. Verdict: Shannon
