Ireland take on Italians in U19s

IRELAND make their IRB/FIRA 2003 U19 rugby World Cup Championship debut this evening near Paris when they take on Italy (6.30pm) in a bid to at least guarantee their place in the top eight of the event.

But manager Michael Cunningham reckons that the Irish will have their work cut out against a strong Italian side. Ireland lost to Wales and England (11-21 and 3-12 respectively) while the Italians were beaten by the English, Welsh, Scotland and France. But all four matches were close-fought and Cunningham believes there is little between the sides.

“It’s going to be a very physical game, that’s for sure. We know from past experience that Italy are very strong, very aggressive and possess a fair degree of skill as well.