Just like The Villagers have international Kyle McCallan back in their ranks, Instonians will be boosted by the return of Andrew White, which might see them have the edge over YMCA.
One of the closest matches of the day may be at The Meadow, where Downpatrick entertain Bready, while either North Down or Strabane will have no further interest in this year’s competition after they meet at The Green.
CSNI will pull off the shock of the round if they eliminate Dublin kingpins North County while even with home advantage, it will be a big surprise if either Carrick orBangor finds themselves in the 2nd round draw, entertaining Donemana and Limavady respectively.
It will be a big day for Killymallaght at the international venue in Dublin, but Clontarf should be too strong, and a Jeremy Bray inspired The Hills will provide a stiff test for out of form Glendermott.
At Ballymagorry, Fox Lodge entertain Lisburn in an intriguing tie which is too close to call, while also in the North West, Eglinton will have to be at their best to get past Phoenix.
Of the remaining ties involving Northern clubs, Lurgan (v Malahide), Derriaghy (v Old Belvedere) and Ardmore (v CYM), only re-instated into the competition at the eleventh hour, all have home advantage and need to make it count.
