Ireland U20s foiled in frenetic battle

Ireland 24 Wales 35: A disappointing opening to the U20s Six Nations campaign for Ireland but for those home supporters present, there was the considerable consolation of watching a cracking contest, sprinkled with a magnificent seven tries and some exhilarating rugby.

Wales were deserving winners, edging out their hosts four to three in the try count but, in truth, the gap in class on the night was wider, with Shane Daly’s last-gasp try reducing the gap on the scoreboard.

“Play, play,” was the regular shout from the Welsh coaching box.