As the averages for the 3rd and 4th Divisions are put up regularly by Gerry Byrne, we will instead focus on the current tables and where the two leagues stand.
The rankings for D3/D4 are determined by the total points received rather than by percentages. At this point of the season with teams having played different numbers of matches it can be difficult to determine what the real position is. In the case of D4 this is not a major concern as Phoenix II are so far ahead that even having played more matches than their rivals it is difficult to see them being denied promotion. With nine matches played they have eight wins [one a walk-over] and a points lead of 76.5 over Merrion III [who have three games in hand].
The third team still in with a shout is Dundrum who could catch Phoenix if they won their four outstanding matches. All three clubs have only one loss but Phoenix have the points in the bag and with only five scheduled matches remaining are hot favourites for the title.
At the other end of the table Mullingar and Pembroke III are in greatest danger of relegation. Each have six losses and only one win from seven matches played. But none of the next three teams, YMCA III, Malahide II and Railway II are safe with only two wins apiece.
In D3 it is North County who currently top the table but in this case they are somewhat flattered by their high position as Laois are only 31 points behind with three matches in hand. The key column is matches lost and here North County have had three defeats to Laois’ one. Clontarf II and YMCA II are also still in the hunt for one of the promotion places.
At the other end of the table Civil Service are struggling with one win out of six and will do well to survive. They will likely be joined [assuming two teams go down which is not at all assured if Merrion IIs drop from D2 and Merrion III hold onto the second promotion spot but cannot ascend] by either The Hills II or North Kildare. But with only one win separating the 3rd to 7th placings no one is really safe.