PRENDERGAST SPARKLES IN STORMING WIN
THIS season’s crop of Ireland U20s are looking to emulate the Grand Slam-clinching class of 2022 and, on last night’s evidence, Richie Murphy’s next generation look primed to make it back-to-back clean sweeps at this level. In a highly entertaining, free-flowing encounter in Colwyn Bay, the visitors sealed an impressive 17point victory thanks to tries from Conor Ó Tighearnaigh, Paddy McCarthy, Ruadhán Quinn, Henry McErlean and two from impressive fullback James Nicholson. Sam Prendergast underlined his growing reputation with a sublime display. The Leinster academy out-half has been tipped for a big future, and the 19-year-old showcased his array of attacking skills throughout, one backhanded offload to set up Nicholson for a try a particular highlight.
Ireland captain Gus McCarthy spearheaded a fearsome effort from the pack – arguably the biggest unit ever fielded by an Irish team at this level – while young backrower Ruadhán Quinn once again showed why Munster have already capped this talented flanker. After this bonus-point win, Ireland now set their sights on France, who visit
Musgrave Park next Friday. WALES U20 SCORERS - Tries: Hennessy, Scarfe, Morgan (2) cons: Edwards (2) pens: Edwards. IRELAND U20: J Nicholson; I Anagu (McErlean 46), H Cooney, J Devine, H Gavin; S Prendergast (West 75), F Gunne (Sheahan 75); G Hadden (Morris 62), G McCarthy (capt), P McCarthy (Barrett 71), D Mangan, C O’Tighearnaigh, J McNabney (Cawley 75), R Quinn (Sheahan 70), B Gleeson. SCORERS - Tries: O’Tighearnaigh, Quinn, McCarthy, Nicholson (2), McErlean Cons: Prendergast (3) Pens: Prendergast (2).