Graham demanding a backlash from his Braidmen

AFTER an error-ridden display at Eaton Park, which resulted in a 10-6 defeat to Dolphin, Ballymena are on the road to Limerick determined to put things right when they meet UL Bohemians.

At least Andy Graham’s men will have no real fear about the Bohs’ 4G pitch at the University of Limerick, as their opening day victory at Old Wesley was also played on an artificial surface, buttheBraidmenknowthatthey must respond to last weekend’s off-colour effort against their still winless hosts.

“We let ourselves down (against Dolphin),” said Graham of his fifth-placed side. “But we have got to put that behind us.”

Ballymena will be without Adam McBurney, who is benching for Ulster, while Dave Shanahan and Matty Rea are also in Italy.

Brett Heron may play in Limerick but picked up a knock in training and Glenn Bailie could end up at No.10.

Third-placed Banbridge play host to leaders Naas with the Co Down side also hoping for their own form of reaction after last weekend when they surrendered a 31-10 lead against UCC to end the game tied at 31-31.

Though they did finish with three points — from the draw along with a try bonus — coach Dan Soper wants to see improvement for his undefeated squad’s second successive game at Rifle Park.

“We were more disappointed with the performance and the fact we came out of that game with three points was actually quite a positive thing,” said Soper.

“The big test for us is if we can get a reaction from last Saturday.”

Out-half Michael Lowry will get another run-out after his solid debut but Soper will be without Nick Timoney and Rob Lyt- tle, who are both with Ulster.

Ballynahinch, in fourth, are in Cork to play Dolphin and travel boosted by last weekend’s first victory of the campaign at home to Old Wesley, which also brought them a bonus point.

Brian McLaughlin’s squad are without lock Pete Browne, who is starting for Ulster, and Jack Regan will move from flanker to second row while Aaron Hall comes into the back row.

“All in all it was a good win (over Wesley),” said Director of Rugby Ronnie Duncan. “We want to keep that going.”

Div1B: Bann v Naas, Dolphin v Hinch, Wesley v Shannon, UCC v Belvo, Bohs v Ballymena. Rallying call: Andy Graham is out to return to winning ways