MU Barnhall is preparing for its upcoming opportunity at promotion this weekend as they prepare to face Queen’s University in the final of the Energia All-Ireland League Men’s Division 1B promotion/relegation play-off. Head coach, Adrian Flavin, expresses a positive outlook for their chances and aspires to exceed last season’s performance.
In the previous season, MU Barnhall came close to securing Division 1B rugby but was unsuccessful against Blackrock College in the promotion decider. However, they have secured a second opportunity at promotion following a hard-fought 25-23 victory over Cashel in the semi-final last weekend.
Adrian Flavin’s Blue Bulls have shown significant progress in recent years, rising from Division 2B at the conclusion of the 2018/19 season. Despite the challenges presented by the Covid-19 pandemic, they have consistently advanced through the ranks and are now aiming for consecutive promotions.
Flavin recognizes that they are on the cusp of making the leap to the next level and expresses his confidence in their prospects for the upcoming final. He attributes their progress to the club’s ambitious nature and the support of the rugby scholarship programme through Maynooth University.
The team’s youth and the blend of young students and graduates have contributed to their dynamic style of rugby. Flavin also emphasizes their resilience and diligent work ethic, particularly in their impressive away performances this season.
Despite the departure of several key players from last year’s campaign, MU Barnhall has seen promising performances from their young squad members. Flavin has faith in his team’s ability to excel in the upcoming final and aspires to build upon their experiences from last season.
Their rivals, Queen’s University, will present a formidable challenge, but Flavin remains focused on his team’s preparation and performance. He views the final as another 80 minutes of rugby and is committed to ensuring that his team delivers their best effort.
The final showdown is scheduled to take place at Dub Lane, and Flavin and his team are poised to exert maximum effort in pursuit of promotion. The match is anticipated to be an exhilarating encounter as both teams vie for a coveted spot in Division 1B.