Ireland: Shamrock Bowl XXXI – Dublin Rebels face arch rivals, the Carrickfergus Knights
The defending champion Dublin Rebels take the field today at Tallaght Stadium in Shamrock Bowl XXXI to face the Carrickfergus Knights who are making their first appearance in the Irish title game in 13 years.
In fact, these two teams have a history in this game. The eight-time champion Rebels have beaten the Knights three times in the Shamrock Bowl, 2004, 2003 and 2001. The last time Carrickfergus won the championship was 2002 when they trounced the UL Vikings 66-0.
The Rebels had to face their opponents in Shamrock Bowl XXX, the Belfast Trojans in the semifinals and eked out a 32-26 win. The Knights were forced into overtime against the Limerick Vikings, edging them 21-20.
Dublin Rebels beat the Knights 12-0 April 2
In the only meeting between these two teams in 2017, Dublin earned a 12-0 shutout.
Dublin finished the regular season with a 7-1 record with their only loss coming at the hands of the Vikings, 28-22. Carrickfergus dropped three games during the regular season losing to the South Dublin Panthers and the Belfast Torjans as well as the Rebels.
Dublin is led by quarterback Andrew Dennehy and running back Dave McMahon who had two touchdowns and three two-point conversions in the semifinal.
The Knights look to running back Darren Montgomery who scored two touchdowns in the semifinal win over the Vikings.
A capacity crowd is expected Sunday. Kickoff is 2:30 pm (3:30 pm CEST)
