Like father, like son, Paul Kiernan glad to have dad on board for Ireland U20s

The strength of the squad available to Irish U20 coach Nigel Carolan was apparent on Tuesday night when he made 13 changes and still brushed Georgia aside 35-7.

And Paul Kiernan, drafted in for his first action in the tournament in Manchester, believes that depth is a key factor in their progress to the semi-finals.

Kiernan, who captained Munster to win the U20 interpros last year, came in to skipper the side — one of three drafted in for their first starts on Tuesday whose fathers are former Irish international.

All three dads — Michael Kiernan, Rob Saunders and Terry Kennedy — were present in the Manchester City Academy Stadium to watch their sons play in the same positions that they were capped in.

All three — scrum-half Niall Saunders and winger Terry Kennedy — produced excellent displays as Ireland booked a semi-final spot against Argentina next Monday.

“That was brilliant. No, there was no pressure at all,” said Kernan when asked about three whose dads were capped. “I think it’s great for the lads to be representing the family as well.

“It showed the depth in the squad for the lads to step in with the 13 changes. We’re really proud of that. It just shows that everybody is really digging in in the squad. It was a massive squad effort to top this group and we’re delighted.”

And what about the dad? “He’s a massive help to me. He gives me a few words of encouragement before games. He’s always by my side throughout. So delighted to have him.”

So, can we expect a dramatic semi-final drop goal from the latest Kernan, the way his dad won the 1985 Triple Crown against England?

“I doubt that, I don’t think I have the same kicking gene as him slotting drop goals, but we’ll see!”