IRFU Vice President Flies To Durban

IRFU Senior Vice President Barry Keogh has flown out to Durban to join up with the Ireland U19 squad following the tragic death on Saturday of wing-forward John McCall. The player’s father Ian is also on his way to South Africa.

John McCall was removed from the field after 20 minutes of play, following a tackle and was later pronounced dead in St Augustin’s Hospital.

The circumstances surrounding the incident that led to the injury were clarified today by IRFU Press Officer, John Redmond.

“Some media reports suggesting that the incident thal led to John’s removal from the pitch concerned a collapsed scrum are totally erroneous, ” explained Redmond.

“What actually happened was John took possession from a throw to the back of a line-out. He moved forward, was tackled by the ankles and fell to the ground on his shoulder. He then laid the ball back but when play moved on, John remained on the ground.”

A post-mortem will be held on Tuesday in St Augustin’s Hospital.

The situation regarding the squad and whether or not they will continue in the tournament will be made following a meeting between team manager Michael Cunningham, team coach Pat Murray and squad members