Ireland U20s began their Six Nations campaign in style this evening, defeating Scotland 38-26 at Irish Independent Park in Cork. However, it was the home county's Jack Crowley who stole most of the limelight on the night with a magical display from out-half.
The Munster youngster scored 18 points in total, though it was a moment of genius just on the stroke of half-time that will be remembered for years to come. The Cork venue has witnessed some marvellous tries throughout the years but few would hold a candle to Crowley's effort just before the break.
Taking the ball deep in Irish territory, the out-half ran most of the field and just as it looked like he was going to be tackled he fended off Scotland full-back Ollie Smith before racing off under the posts.
As @lenihandonal says, Jack Crowley had no right to score that try. What a run. Follow all the action here #rterugby https://t.co/bimE1HRgUt pic.twitter.com/zffUNYhEHk
— RTÉ Rugby (@RTErugby) January 31, 2020
The Bandon man also scored the opening try of the game, Ethan McIlroy's offload bouncing fortunately into his clutches as he burst through the Scottish defence to dot the ball down. As always there is plenty of room for improvement for Noel McNamara's side, but six tries on any given day is a solid day's work.
The other Irish try-scorers on the night were Thomas Clarkson, Tom Aherne, Andrew Smith and John McKee. Meanwhile, Ewan Ashman, Connor Boyle, Jack Blain and Cameron Scott all dotted down for Scotland, with Nathan Chamberlain doing the business from placed kicks.
Next up for the Irish is a clash with Wales who will visit Irish Independent Park next Friday night.
