Clarke keeps faith with winning side for trip to Scotland

IRELAND U20 coach Allen Clarke has given a vote of confidence to the team which started in the victory over England for tomorrow night’s Six Nations clash with Scotland (McDiarmid Park, Perth, 7.30pm).

However he has made changes to his replacements bench with prop Adam Macklin replacing Jack O’Connell while out half Andrew Burke, who played in the competition opener against France, returns from injury displacing Gary Foley.

Clarke has vowed his team will not take anything for granted against their hosts. He said: “The win against England was a reflection of the strength of the squad’s character and resolve. However, there were aspects of our game we were not content with. These have received special attention this week. Scotland are a team to be reckoned with and respected, particularly at home. We’re aware of the challenge ahead and the levels of performance required. Our aim is clear — to keep progressing and improving as individuals and ultimately as a team.”