Ulster sides in the mix on nail biting EY All Ireland Hockey League weekend ahead with titles, survival and promotion all still up for grabs

April 16, 2026

THIS weekend ahead sees a truly nail-biting finale as the EY Hockey League Divisions 1 & 2 close out the 2025/26 league season. And with the title still up for grabs, EY Champions Trophy places yet to be decided, survival on the line, and topflight promotion, it’s all hanging in the balance.

In the Women’s EYHL, the fate of six sides remains uncertain as they look to secure topflight hockey for 2026/27 in their final league games.

Ulster Elks have the biggest task on their hands as they travel to champions Loreto hoping to spoil their centenary celebrations.

Pembroke Wanderers host Queen’s University with a draw potentially enough for the hosts to stay up should results elsewhere work in their favour, and a win potentially securing a Play-Off place, while Queen’s University will look to nullify any slim chances of relegation with a win of their own that would guarantee a top half finish.

Old Alex welcome Portadown to Alexandra College in a straight shootout for sixth place, with the losing side in danger of the drop.

Catholic Institute travel to Park Avenue hoping to cause yet another upset in their quest for survival against runners-up Railway Union. And it’s third versus fourth as both UCD and Pegasus look to build important momentum ahead of their EY Champions Trophy Play-Off ties next weekend.

In the Women’s EYHL2, promotion places hang in the balance as Avoca and Monkstown meet at Newpark School with a win for either side enough to secure the league title and promotion, but a draw or loss potentially meaning disappointment.

Ards will hope they can guarantee promotion on their visit to Cork Harlequins, while UCC head to Dangan to face University of Galway, with their topflight hopes hingeing on their fellow Munster side beating Ards, and the tie in Newpark not ending in a draw. And Trinity Ladies’ host Lisnagarvey as both sides look to close out their campaigns on a high.