The Ireland U20s are back on home soil this Friday night as they take on the ever-improving Italy U20s in Cork. Here's all you need to know about Ireland U20s v Italy U20s.
Richie Murphy's side got their quest to retain their U20 Six Nations crown for the third successive year off to a perfect start on Saturday evening as they recorded a fantastic 37-31 win over France. In what was a tense game, Jack Murphy, son of head coach Richie, was crucial for Ireland as he notched 17 points with the boot, including some crucial kicks near the end to win it. The win will be some consolation for Ireland after losing to the same opposition in the U20s World Championship finalw over the summer.
Meanwhile, Italy will be looking to bounce back from their home defeat to England on Friday night. The Azzurri struggled in the game and will be looking to cause a major upset.
READ HERE: Richie Murphy “Proud” Of Son Jack After Nail-biting Ireland U20s Win
When is Ireland U20s v Italy U20s
The fixture will be played Friday evening in Virgin Media Park with kick off at 7:15
"I couldn't be any prouder of the lads than I am today!"
Ireland U20 captain Evan O'Connell speaking to Tommy after that incredible win.#FRAvIRE | #SixNationsU20 pic.twitter.com/RZbM8sgf9D— Virgin Media Sport (@VMSportIE) February 3, 2024
Where to watch Ireland U20s v Italy U20s
The game will be live on Virgin Media 1 with coverage beginning at 6:30pm
Completing the perfect opening weekend in France! 💚#FutureIsGreen pic.twitter.com/YBeNxCfGZm
— Irish Rugby (@IrishRugby) February 3, 2024
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For Ireland, Richie Murphy has slightly shuffled his pack with three changes from last weeks victory. Munster's Brian Gleeson has picked up an ankle injury and in his place is Shannon man Luke Murphy. Another Munster man Danny Sheahan drops to the bench in place of Old Wesley's Stephen Smyth. Beside him in the front row is Ulster's Jacob Boyd who comes in for the injured Andrew Sparrow. Patreece Bell of Sale Sharks comes onto the bench as does Sean Edogbo, brother of Munster lock Edwin.
Ireland are unchanged in the backline.
The Ireland U20s team to face Italy in Cork on Friday night! 🟢#FutureIsGreen
— Irish Rugby (@IrishRugby) February 7, 2024
Italy have made one change to the starting 15 from their defeat to England. Pierro Gritti moves to the second row with Cesare Zucconni taking his place at 6, with Giacomo Milano dropping to the bench. Olmo D'Alessandro takes the place of Samuel Mirenzi on the bench, as does replacement outhalf Ferdinando Fusari for Francesco Imberti.
La formazione annunciata dal CT Massimo #Brunello per il secondo match del #U6N20 contro l'Irlanda➡️ https://t.co/edlsIs37b4#IREvITA U20 ☘️🇮🇹
📍 Virgin Media Park, Cork
🏉 Ven 9/2, kick off ore 20.15 (ITA)
🎟️ @TicketOneIT
📺 @SkySport ▪️ @NOWTV_It#ItalrugbyU20 pic.twitter.com/Mhvdw5rpo1— Italrugby (@Federugby) February 7, 2024
