Ireland setting sights on winning start against Scotland

Ireland captain Pádraig Hogan believes a strong start against hosts Scotland tomorrow will be key to success in the Home Internationals at Glasgow Gailes.

Hogan feels his young side is capable of delivering a first Ireland victory in the round-robin event since 2008 when Paul Cutler, Jonathan Caldwell and Shane Lowry spearheaded a Triple Crown of wins over Scotland, Wales and England at Muirfield.

England have ruled the roost since with three wins in-a-row and Hogan said the Irish need to go into their match with the defending champions on Thursday with a victory over the hosts under their belts.