Rugby League: Ireland will be cast in the familiar role of underdogs as they launch their European Championship campaign against France in Dublin today, but this time they are not without hope.

IRELAND coach Andy Kelly insists his side will not go chasing points in their crunch World Cup clash with Samoa in Parramatta.

Ireland will have 10 Super League players in their team to take on Tonga in their World Cup opening pool C match against Tonga at Parramatta Stadium tomorrow.

Former Leeds stand-off Graham Holroyd’s debut for Ireland has been put on hold for at least nine days due to injury.

THE Irish Wolfhounds, Ireland’s rugby league team, are playing Wales at home tomorrow at Lakelands in Terenure.