Cork Constitution steamed into the Munster Senior Cup Semi Finals after a convincing 27-15 win over Young Munster in Temple Hill on Friday night. Shane O Connor opened the scoring with an early try, which was converted by Brian O Meara. Peter O Brien added another try to the tally before Young Munster regrouped and came back with a good period of possession. Mark Connolly was on target with a penalty to narrow the margin to 12-3. Cian O Mahony and Peter O Brien both touched down for Cork Constitution before half time, with O Meara converting once again. Young Munster came back with a Clem Casey try, which was converted by Mark Connolly. Problems with the floodlights delayed the match for almost 15 minutes during the second half. After play resumed, Young Munster continued to try and reduce the deficit, with Paudie McMahon touching down. However, it wasn t enough to knock Cork Constitution off course, and Brian O Meara completed the scoring with a late penalty.

Cork Constitution will face defending champions Shannon on Saturday 19th. With Shannon currently riding high at the top of the AIL Division 1, and aiming to clinch their 6th Munster Senior Cup title in a row, their opponents will have face a tough challenge in unseating the champions.

FIXTURES: Saturday 19/03/05 Semi Final Shannon v Cork Constitution Thomond Park, 1pm

Sunday 20/03/05 Semi Final UCC v Garryowen Musgrave Park, 2.30pm