Irish rugby blushes saved by 11th-place play-off win

World Rugby U20 Championship: Ireland 39 - Japan 33: Irish coach Noel McNamara believes that many of his squad will go on to professional careers and represent the national senior side despite a miserable fortnight at the World Rugby U20 Championship.

Ireland, having led hosts France 17-5 at half-time in the opening game, had to withstand a late rally from Japan yesterday to prevent relegation for the first time to the World Trophy tournament.

And while Japan outscored them by five tries to four in Beziers yesterday, Ireland did enough to hold out for the win which ensures they will be participating when the competition is held in Argentina next year.