THE 45th annual Colours match between Dublin University and UCD will take place at Donnybrook on Friday when Trinity will be aiming to retain the trophy.

Compaq Ireland general manager Tom Keating announced yesterday that the firm will yet again sponsor a match that has produced some stirring contests since the inaugural encounter in 1952. That was won by UCD who lead 23-18 in the series that has also featured three drawn encounters.

Trinity include seven new in a team that will no fewer than 12 players who will be experiencing the unique atmosphere for the first time. The three who have played previously are all in the pack. They bare the captain and number eight Dennis Finn, second row John Ryan and hooker John O'Sullivan. The team also includes three players from New Zealand and one from Canada.