Ireland youngsters sweep past Scots as Sevens side eye Tokyo
IRELAND got the defence of their Under-20 Six Nations title off to the perfect start with a comprehensive 38-7 victory over Scotland at Cardiff Arms Park.
Richie Murphy’s side were helped in the second half when Scottish flanker Harri Morris received a red card after he took out Ireland full back Jamie Osborne in the air.
Ireland, who won their three games in last year’s curtailed championship, took an early lead after Alex Soroka’s try was converted by James Humphrys.
The 2019 champions led at half time following a penalty try, after Scotland had pulled level when Elliot Gourlay’s try was converted.
Ireland extended their lead barely a minute into the second half, when they kicked to the corner after Morris’s red card and Sam Illo went over. Further tries from Alex Kendellen, Shane Jennings and Osborne secured the first win of the campaign. They are back in action on Friday when they face Wales, who beat Italy 25-8.
England also began with a win when coming from 19-3 behind at the break to beat France 38-22 in the Welsh capital.
Ireland’s Sevens team were another side in good form yesterday, winning their first three Pool A games in the Olympic repechage tournament in Monaco.
Terry Kennedy scored eight tries and Jordan Conroy six as Zimbabwe were beaten 31-10 and Mexico seen off 31-0 before Tonga were swatted aside 43-0. Ireland face Samoa this afternoon to see who top the group before the semifinals and finals.
In Engand’s Premiership playoffs, Pat Lam’s Bristol let a 28-point lead slip before they were beaten 43-36 by Harlequins in extra time. Quins will play Exeter in the final after the Chiefs beat Sale 40-30.
Meanwhile, Benetto Treviso were the first winners of the Rainbow Cup. They made the most of home advantage to claim the trophy by beating South African side Bulls 35-8.