Ireland U21s earn tough World Cup draw

Seeded second by virtue of last year's runners-up finish, Ireland Under-21s have been drawn to face France, Samoa and South Africa in the opening stages of June's IRB World Cup in Argentina.

Having finished a disappointing fifth in this year's Six Nations, Mark McDermott's side will be determined to build on their sole win this season - February's 31-22 defeat of Italy U21.

McDermott guided the Gareth Steenson-inspired Irish to last year's World Cup final in Scotland, before a gallant 47-19 final loss to New Zealand.

The 2005 tournament - which runs from June 9 to 25 - will take place at five venues throughout Argentine region Mendoza - namely Liceo, Chacras, Maristas, Mendoza and the M. Argentinas Stadium.

McDermott's charges open their campaign against France at Chacras on Thursday, June 9. The Baby Bleus were 20-13 victors when the sides met at Thomond Park last month.

The Irish take on Samoa - ranked eleventh - at Maristas RC on Monday, June 13 before wrapping up the group run with a testing tie against third seeds South Africa at Liceo RC, four days later.

The travelling Ireland squad will be confirmed in the coming weeks.

IRB UNDER-21 WORLD CUP: Mendoza, Argentina

Ireland fixtures: (all kick-offs Irish time - Argentina -4 hours)

Thursday, June 9: Ireland U-21 v France U-21, Chacras RC, 7.00pm

Monday, June 13: Ireland U-21 v Samoa U-21, Maristas RC, 7.00pm

Friday, June 17: Ireland U-21 v South Africa U-21, Liceo RC, 7.00pm

Seedings (1-12):

New Zealand, Ireland, South Africa, Australia, Wales, France, England, Argentina, Scotland, Italy, Samoa, Canada