The Ireland's U20s rugby team - who are sponsored by PwC Ireland - will look to take another step along their history making journey with a shot at their third straight Grand Slam title, thanks to the performances of Coach Richie Murphy's squad to date. They've kept their dream alive with an impressive 31-37 win against France on French soil, a close 23-22 victory at home against a tough Italian team, and a dominant 43-8 win over Wales. These wins have perfectly set the stage for a thrilling showdown in Bath next Friday night, where they'll face England, the only other team with a perfect record so far. This decisive match promises to be an epic battle, with both teams eyeing the Grand Slam glory.
After reviewing the first three rounds of the U20s rugby tournament, it's clear that next Friday's match is a clash between the two top sides in this year’s tournament. Ireland have racked up an impressive 103 points across their opening three games, while England has showcased a formidable defence, conceding only 35 points, so something will have to give. Ireland no.10 Jack Murphy is leading the tournament scoring charts with 36 points and has been exceptional with his kicking game, adding precision and strategic advantage to Ireland's play.
Ireland's team performances, particularly through captain Evan O’Connell and Hugh Gavin, has been great to watch. Both have dominated as top ball carriers, signalling their significant impact on Ireland's success. However, Ireland must be wary of England's potent ball carriers, notably backrower Henry Pollock and winger Alex Willis. Pollock, who has already made his mark in the Premiership, is viewed by England as a future star on the international stage.
Out of nowhere! That's 2⃣ for Pollock.@EnglandRugby extend their lead.#ITAENG #U6N20 pic.twitter.com/V978rItjJt
— Six Nations Under-20s (@SixNationsU20) February 2, 2024
Ireland will be crossing their fingers for Brian Gleeson's return for the upcoming match. Gleeson, a key player from the first round (and the 2022 Grand Slam campaign), will be a huge challenge for England's defence and may be the key to Ireland’s success. Alongside, Hugh Gavin's growth has caught everyone's attention, quickly becoming one of the standout centres in the tournament. His development and skills are among the many highlights of Ireland's campaign this year.
Ireland will need to go after some key weakness’ in England’s defence. England’s midfield has struggled against Wales and particularity away to the tournaments lowest ranked team Scotland. If Ireland can get some quality ball to attack from this could prove decisive for Ireland as they look to secure a historic victory.
🤩 @Scotlandteam aren't giving up yet! 🙌
What a try from Geordie Gwynn 🤩#U6N20 #SCOENG pic.twitter.com/XdMgh0UNFw— Six Nations Under-20s (@SixNationsU20) February 23, 2024
👊 Huw Anderson with the try !#CymruU20 pic.twitter.com/6LmmM1xcuo
— Welsh Rugby Union 🏴 (@WelshRugbyUnion) February 9, 2024
Ireland face a significant challenge this Friday, particularly from England's formidable front five in the maul. England's prop duo, Asher Opoku-Fordjour and Billy Sela, have been a handful against their opponents to date. With Ireland already using six props in the tournament so far, they should be ready for the tough battle ahead, anticipating a demanding evening as they confront England's strength head-on.
Death
Taxes
Opoku-Fordjour scrum dominance pic.twitter.com/TW8pxHU7ZN— RugbyInsideLine (@RugbyInsideLine) February 23, 2024
Ladies and gentlemen...
Hattrick hero Henry Pollock 👏👏👏#ITAENG #U6N20 pic.twitter.com/mQeoO2OPjS— Six Nations Under-20s (@SixNationsU20) February 2, 2024
While Ireland prepare to face England's rising stars, England will have also been meticulously studying Ireland's team. They will be happy to see Brian Gleeson again absent from the matchday squad as he deals with injury.
The Ireland U20s team to face England in Bath! 🟢#FutureIsGreen
— Irish Rugby (@IrishRugby) March 6, 2024
Dynamic ball carrier Sean Edogbo from Munster will be on England's radar whenever he arrives on the pitch. Edogbo has been in exceptional form since coming into the team against Italy.
What an impact by Sean Edogbo #IREvITA pic.twitter.com/Qo1d7gKbBc
— Brett Igoe (@brettruganalyst) February 9, 2024
Captain Evan O’Connell has been one of the standout performers for Ireland, especially during lineouts where he's become the team's go-to player. His leadership and skills will be crucial on Friday night. The face-off between O’Connell and England's captain, Finn Carnduff, is highly anticipated, promising an exciting duel that fans are eager to witness.
Finn Carnduff leads by example with a clinical carry! pic.twitter.com/3H72ET0BbV
— England Rugby (@EnglandRugby) February 23, 2024
The U20s remains a pivotal element of the IRFU's performance strategy, and Richie Murphy's guidance has once again forged a highly competitive team. Utilising 29 players throughout the tournament, Murphy has maintained a stable selection for the backline, despite needing to adjust the forwards due to injuries and form.
As he deliberates his line-up for the critical match against England, there's a palpable sense that this team has yet to reach its full potential, hinting at a major performance on the horizon. The squad's resilience, particularly evident in their opening victory against France and the tense final moments against Italy, underscores their capability.
With Ireland having secured wins against England in their last two meetings under Murphy, who would doubt another win on the road?
The road to the Grand Slam
- Friday, March 8: England v Ireland, Recreation Ground, Bath, 7.15pm
- Friday, March 15: Ireland v Scotland, Virgin Media Park, 7pm
