West Dublin Rhinos @ Carrickfergus Knights
The game of the week would have to be the clash between the West Dublin Rhinos (1-2) and the Carrickfergus Knights(3-1). The Knights appear to have set themselves up for a home semi-final following last week’s win over the IAFL Champion Dublin Rebels team. The Rhino’s record does not tell the whole story of their season so far. A 5 point heart breaker at Trinity in week seven is the difference between a winning and losing record. The Rhino’s have a big well drilled and motivated squad. They have good balance across their offence with their speed run, power run and a good passing game.
The Carrickfergus Knights have shown their Post Season pedigree. They are undefeated at home. Scoring an average of 22 points per game they match up well against the Rhino’s defence. The Knights know that they realistically have to win just 3 of their remaining games to secure home field advantage. Favourites this week they know that the Rhinos have the ability win close games. A win for the Knights sees them march on to the Semi Finals. A win for the Rhinos puts them back in contention for a wild card spot!
Cork Admirals @ Dublin Dragons
The other game in week 9 is a Southern Division clash between the Cork Admirals (0-4) and Dublin Dragons (0-3) . Both teams will be fighting for their first win of the season. Both trying to put week 8 defeats behind them. Cork are perhaps favourites in this match up. Their defence has conceded fewer points in less games than the Dragons. They have been in contention in 3 of their 4 games this season. Offensively they have the ability to put together scoring drives. While the Dragons offence has scored an average of 11 points per game, they do have the most porous defence in the league. Corks travelled in good numbers to Dublin on week 4 and will have to do so again this week. Do not enter the Dragons Den light handed or you will get burned.
IAFL LeaguePreviews by CIA.
DV8s Development league Week 1:
Trim Bulldogs @ Tullamore Phoenix.
Defending DV8s Champions, Tullamore Phoenix open the DV8s season at home to newcomers Trim Bulldogs. The Phoenix impressed on their debut in 2010 and are hot favourites to win this years DV8s title in advance of moving into the main league in 2012. Most of the Phoenix’s large squad have returned for 2011 and they will have a significant numbers advantage over the Bulldogs. Bulldogs are optimistic about their chances, but, as with any debut team with a high percentage of rookies, this game will be more about the learning experience than the result. Phoenix to win.
DV8s preview by IAFL Admin.