Shamrock Bowl XXIV Dublin Rebels v UL Vikings

Shamrock Bowl XXIV features the two clubs who have been the standout programmes in Ireland over the past decade. Both teams have extensive experience of playing in championship games and have made their mark in Europe. There is an intense rivalry between both teams, fueled by regular meetings in recent Shamrock Bowls. Both teams also have a claim on being the best team in Ireland and Shamrock Bowl XXIV will settle this matter.

 The Dublin Rebels have been unbeaten during the regular season and play-offs, winning an impressive 9 straight games. During this time they defeated the Vikings in Limerick. Hence their claim to be Ireland’s best team. The margin of their victories has been extremely impressive and they ended the regular season with the number one ranked offence and defence.

 However, the UL Vikings have had the distraction of European competition in 2010 to blame for dropping some points during the regular season. They became the first Irish team ever to win a European title when the won the EFAF Atlantic Cup in June. Consequently, they have been ranked in the top 20 teams in Europe – the first Irish team to achieve such a ranking for over 20 years.