Now we’re talking. Two wins on the bounce and a chance to finish on a real high.
The Ireland Under 20s got off to a shaky start in this year’s Six Nations but have shown some steel, and skill, over the past few weeks. Victories over England and Italy have Nigel Carolan’s side buoyed ahead of tonight’s Electric Ireland finale against Scotland.
There is not much to divide the sides at present. Both have won two and lost two. The Scots have scored an extra try and conceded one less but are coming off a home loss to France that derailed their title push.
Ireland have a few gems in their squad and will be confident of making it three from three at Donnybrook Stadium.
Captain James Ryan has been a sensation, so much so that there has been talk of him being advanced through the Leinster academy.
Peter Claffey has partnered him well in the second row, Adam McBurney looks a combative hooker, Shane Daly impressive in midfield and fullback Brett Connon [below] an assured goal-kicker.
Ireland go into the Scottish match with three changes from the side that did for the Azzurri last weekend.
Stephen Kerins has recovered from injury and is drafted back in as scrum-half. James Bollard starts at loosehead and Munster lock Sean O’Connor is given a chance alongside Ryan.
Conor O’Brien and Shane Daly continue their burgeoning midfield partnership while blindside Cillian Gallagher is asked to partner Will Connors and Greg Jones of Leinster. Jacob Stockdale is released from Ulster again to start on the left wing.
Coach Carolan
In a few months, the Connacht native will bring his Ireland squad to England for the World Rugby U20 Championships. Already, he will have several players in mind. This Friday may make up his mind about a few more. He says:
“Unforced errors and an unusually high penalty count meant that we made hard work of the win against a gritty Italy side last Friday night. However, we came away with the result and that’s the important thing.
“Scotland are a strong side with a lot of quality players in their team. It will be a tough game on Friday but I’m confident that we can put in a big performance and finish on a winning note.”
The Electric Ireland Under 20s Six Nation home game against Scotland kicks off tonight, March 18th at 7.35pm in Donnybrook. Tickets are available here.
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