An emotionally-charged week culminated in a spectacular performance by this resolute Irish U20s rugby team, who clenched a thrilling 47-27 victory over Fiji. This electrifying triumph followed their compelling 34-all draw with England and a stunning 30-10 bonus-point win against Australia – all within a staggering span of 10 days.
In an unexpected turn, the Irish U20s had to deal with multiple suspensions, with key players Hugh Cooney, Rory Telfer, and James McNabney side-lined after disciplinary hearings. Coupled with injuries, the challenges facing head coach Richie Murphy were colossal. Yet, he demonstrated unshakeable confidence in his team, making ten significant personnel changes.
Thankfully the game was moved to Danie Craven Stadium in Stellenbosch and away from the cabbage patch that was Paarl Gymnasium
However, the joy was short-lived, as tragedy struck. News of the deaths of former St. Michael's College students Max Wall and Andrew O'Donnell, close friends of the team members, sent shockwaves through the Irish camp. The sorrow was compounded when replacement player Jack Oliver lost his father, Greig Oliver, a former Scottish International player and Munster Elite Player Development Officer, in a tragic paragliding accident. Despite the heavy hearts, the team pressed on, displaying commendable solidarity.
The Fijian team's pre-match tribute to the deceased resonated deeply, painting an emotional scene that tugged at heartstrings. The moment, captured and shared widely on Twitter, was a testament to the fraternity and camaraderie in the world of rugby.
A show of respect and solidarity from Fiji towards this Ireland team after the toughest of weeks ☘️#WorldRugbyU20s |@IrishRugby |@fijirugby pic.twitter.com/n5Jbwcbj5m
— World Rugby (@WorldRugby) July 5, 2023
On the field, Ireland's technical prowess shone through, scoring impressive maul tries. The team encountered some problems with their lineout and restarts, hinting at the challenges imposed by the selection changes. Yet, the second half saw them regain stability, with Sam Prendergast steading the ship and Andrew Osbourne securing a critical score that quelled rising nerves.
𝐃𝐀𝐍𝐍𝐘 𝐒𝐇𝐄𝐀𝐇𝐀𝐍! 🟢
What a start this is by Ireland!
☘️ 12-0 🇫🇯#WorldRugbyU20s pic.twitter.com/2E8I9vmNmX— Virgin Media Sport (@VMSportIE) July 4, 2023
We enjoyed this score! 😍#FutureIsGreen | @PwCIreland
pic.twitter.com/tvuPkIguxg— Irish Rugby (@IrishRugby) July 4, 2023
At that stage, Fiji were causing problems and it looked like the difficult mental strain was beginning to show.
A whirlwind of a start to the second half, with Fiji scoring twice.
Ireland emptied the bench and thankfully got a score back through Gus McCarthy.
There's few sights in rugby better than the Fijians in full flow however.@PwCIreland #futureisgreenpic.twitter.com/DBsdNQyz0d— Balls.ie (@ballsdotie) July 4, 2023
The path to the U20s World Cup final
Ireland now advances to the semi-finals, facing off with tournament hosts, South Africa. The South African team has shown inconsistencies in their attack and defence, barely scraping victories over Argentina and Georgia, and succumbing to Italy. Nonetheless, the individual talent in the South African team can't be underestimated, especially the exceptional skills of players like Hakeem Kunene, Jurenzo Julius, and the electrifying Katlego Letebele.
🇿🇦 Although South Africa suffered a humiliating defeat to Italy, Damian Markus left his stamp on that match with this spectacular try! #WorldRugbyU20s pic.twitter.com/UIORE7omLx
— Planet Rugby (@PlanetRugby) June 30, 2023
🇿🇦 So close for South Africa! #WorldRugbyU20spic.twitter.com/dLahQLmcry
— Planet Rugby (@PlanetRugby) July 4, 2023
The upcoming clash between No.8s, Ireland's Brian Gleeson and South African Corne Beets, is one to watch. Gleeson hailed as one of the tournament's standout players, is up against Beets, whose crucial tries led South Africa to victory over Argentina.
Corne Beets scores the double!
The Game Changer.
24-16 pic.twitter.com/zZGF3PsMlF— Junior Springboks (@JuniorBoks) July 4, 2023
With the shift to Athlone Sports Stadium, Ireland U20s can return to their Six Nations strategies, capitalising on the superior pitch conditions. The team is on the cusp of creating history, potentially surpassing the 2016 and 2004 squads. Amidst the highs of anticipation, they must stay grounded, tackling the semi-final with the same tenacity as their past games. They need to take advantage of South Africa’s poor discipline and unorganised attack.
While no member of that squad/management will w ant to experience what they went through at the beginning of the week they need to regroup and look to continue their journey to hopefully a World Cup final. The collective spirit, raw talent, and experienced coaching in this team are ingredients for a potential World Cup final (and more).
