U-21s clash with Wales set to be a cracker

OUTSTANDING performances by both sides in their opening games has set up a cracking Six Nations U21 clash between Ireland and Wales at Galway Sportsground this afternoon, (2.30pm).

Ireland emerged with great credit from their 20-20 draw with France at Limoges while their Welsh counterparts had a highly successful 39-6 defeat of Scotland.

Irish boss Mark McCall who has been shortlisted to succeed Alan Solomons as Ulster coach next season has opted for an unchanged starting line-up. He favours an expansive game and will be looking to Tomas O'Leary's snappy service and lightning break.

IRELAND U21 (v Wales U21): A Finn (Dolphin), R Lane (UCC), J Hearty, (Blackrock College), G Telford, (Dungannon), T Bowe, (QUB), G Steenson, (QUB), T O'Leary, (Cork Constitution); J Wickham, (Clontarf), D Fogarty, (Cork Constitution), D Fitzpatrick, (Belfast Harlequins), David Gannon, (Blackrock College) capt, S O'Connor, (Cork Constitution), B O'Connor, (Cork Constitution), O Hennessy, (Dungannon), J Heaslip, (DU).

Replacements: C Geoghegan, (UCD), S Bennett, (Bath), N McComb, (Dundee HSFP), D O'Brien, (Old Belvedere), R Shaw, (London Wasps), M Glancy, (Loughborough University), B O'Donnell, (UL Bohemians).