Irish Sevens to face Kenya in Dubai

Following a tight 12-all draw with Portugal, Ireland have earned a Bowl quarter-final date with Kenya after today's Pool stages of the IRB Dubai Sevens tournament.

Just over 20,000 spectators thronged the Exiles ground, watching the likes of World champions New Zealand, England, Argentina and Fiji emerge as the leading contenders for the Emirates International Trophy.

The Ryan Constable-coached Irish, with an average age of 23, endured a tough morning shipping two defeats to Pool D heavyweights Fiji (38-17) and South Africa (35-12).

Ballymena back row Michael McComish exhibited his fine talent in both games, scoring two tries - the second of which put the Irish into a half time lead against the Springboks.

But ultimately, having been off the international circuit for the past two years, and with six new caps in his 12-strong squad, Constable was satisfied with the effort shown.

"Today was a learning experience for the players," said the former Ulster centre. "They were playing sides who have been together at this level for the past 6-7 years. They were at a big disadvantage but performed very well.

"Seven tries was a good return, and something to build on for tomorrow. Having tasted the action today, hopefully we can go well in the Bowl competition," added Constable.

"We are in preparation mode for the 2005 World Cup in Hong Kong so we will take what we can from here and George (South Africa) next week, and use it to our advantage next year."

Ireland have played Kenya only once before - winning 31-10 at the Sevens World Cup in 2001. The winners of tomorrow's tie face either Canada or France.

IRB DUBAI SEVENS

Pool D Results

IRELAND 12 Portugal 12

South Africa 35 IRELAND 12

Fiji 38 IRELAND 17

Fixtures: IRB DUBAI SEVENS: Bowl Quarter final, December 3, IRELAND v Kenya, 6.02am (Irish time).