YOUNG MUNSTER completed a hat-trick of Limerick Charity Cup finals wins when disposing of the challenge of a youthful Shannon side at a wet and blustery Dooradoyle last night.

LIAM DELANEY kicked Crosshaven into an All-Ireland Junior Cup final with Monivea after this tense last four tie in Cork on Saturday.

NEW Ireland U20 coach Mike Ruddock got off to a winning start, as his new-look side saw off Italy in a friendly at Donnybrook yesterday.

MUNSTER have every reason to be pleased with a hard-fought win over a gritty Connacht side in the rain at the Mardyke last night.

A FEAST of running rugby in the Aviva Stadium – unfortunately for anyone hoping for a competitive opening encounter in the O2 Challenge, all of it came from one side.

MARTIN MURPHY never doubted that this day would come. While the Aviva Stadium had its detractors, once planning permission was granted, the stadium director could visualise the gates opening at 1pm as they do today for the O2 Challenge between a Connacht/Munster selection and a team representing Leinster/Ulster (2.30pm).

ENGLAND will be gunning for revenge against Ireland in tonight’s FIRA-AER U18 European Championship semi-final in Venice (7pm, Irish time).

Ireland 53 Russia 0