The 2009 season kicks off in a rematch of the 2008 Shamrock Bowl semi final. The Belfast Trojans make the long journey down to Limerick to try and reverse the result of 7 months ago. The last game was an extremely tough and hard hitting affair and it would be fair to expect more of the same in this tie. Both teams have big physical lines on both sides of the ball and both have excellent backfields. As always their main threat is Erin Wagner, a bruising running back and defensive end. Jeroen Egge continues to anchor their O and D lines as a brutal force in the middle. Chris McKeown will lead the team from the Quarterback position and American reciever Kai Ruggieri is one of his favourite targets.

The Vikings come into 2009 rebuilding after losing many players from last years team. They will see this experienced and physical Trojans team as a serious contender for this years Shamrock Bowl. That said they have retained some of the squad that won the Bowl. Glen Carr returns to his familiar Tight End position where he is so devastating with ball in hand. Shamrock Bowl MVP Adrian Garvey will feature strongly in the potent Vikings backfield. Brendan Moroney and Mark Thompson feature on a new look Vikings O-line. On defence Mike Guinane captains from the safety position and Brendan McCarthy, Sean DePaor and Dermot Moriarty are expected to have great contributions. The Vikings also have a large group of rookies whom they hope will grow into the shoes vacated by previous players.

The rebuilding Vikings vs the vengeful Trojans.

March 22nd

Kick off 1pm

UL Sports Grounds