Ireland Under-20s Prepare For French Test In Athlone
The Ireland Under-20s, sponsored by PwC, take on reigning champions France in the U-20 RBS 6 Nations at Dubarry Park on Friday night (kick-off 7.05pm). Supporters are urged to come along early to savour the special big match atmosphere and enjoy the pre-match fireworks.
Both teams got off to flying starts over the weekend with each scoring 47 points so a cracking, high-scoring contest is in prospect. France had a 47-6 home win over Scotland, but Ireland’s 47-15 victory over Italy was fashioned in very testing conditions in Biella where snow had to be swept from the pitch which, consequently, turned into a glue-pot.
Nevertheless, Ireland scored seven tries, two of which were scored by Buccaneers players – Rory Moloney touched down from a maul before half-time, while Cian Romaine made the most of his appearance as a replacement when helping himself to a maul try too late on. Impressive out-half Ross Byrne had half a dozen successful conversions.
There is a solid nucleus of experience in this Ireland squad with flankers Moloney and Josh Murphy, prop Oisin Heffernan, full-back Billy Dardis, centre Garry Ringrose and half-backs Byrne and Nick McCarthy, who captains the team, all playing in last season’s Championship.
Nigel Carolan’s charges showed good composure despite the quagmire playing conditions and the concession of an early try. The Irish pack dominated the exchanges more and more as the game progressed and seven different players scored tries.
On this form, they will be well focused and fired up for the French invasion and a tremendous joust is anticipated. So, come along and cheer on the boys in green in this Electric Ireland-sponsored match!
(Buccaneers’ current Ireland Under-20 representatives, Rory Moloney, Cian Romaine and Stephen McVeigh, are pictured at Dubarry Park with Sean Walsh from match sponsors Electric Ireland and Buccaneers RFC President Ray Fagan).
Tickets can be bought now by calling into the Buccaneers RFC office at Dubarry Park (9.30am to 3pm daily) or at the Bounty from 12 noon daily.
Stand tickets are virtually sold out, so if you want to be sure of a reserved seat, it is best to purchase tickets in advance. However, tickets will be on sale at the turnstiles on match night. There has been exceptional demand for the pre-match function and it is totally sold out.
Ticket prices – Stand €;20; Ground/Terrace €;15; OAP/Student €;10; Family €;30 (admits 2 adults and 2 children to terrace). Contact details are: 0861732711 or email rugby@dubarrypark.com.
Concession vouchers for Under-16s are available to schools and clubs in the region. Primary school children will be admitted FREE when accompanied by an adult, while secondary school children get in for half-price: €;5.
Present your voucher at the ticket box and you could win an Ireland jersey signed by Robbie Henshaw! The winner’s name will be drawn at half-time. If your school or club wishes to get a supply of the concession vouchers, contact Geraldine at 0861732711.