Irish U19s suffer heavy defeat to Welsh counterparts

Ireland U-19 6 Wales U-19 31

The Ireland Under-19s went down to a heavy defeat by their Welsh counterparts at Stradbrook this afternoon.

Charlie McAleese's Irish side were still in the hunt, trailing by just 7-6 at half-time.

UCD fly half Ian Keatley kicked two early penalties but a try from centre Ashley Smith, converted by Rhys Jones, saw the young Dragons hit the front.

Wales, having beaten England and Scotland already this season, ensured their Triple Crown success as they ran in four tries without reply in the second half through winger Alec Jenkins, centre Gareth Maul, full-back Martyn Thomas and replacement lock Matthew Larsen.

Scorers: Ireland: Pens: Ian Keatley 2

Wales: Tries: Ashley Smith, Alec Jenkins, Gareth Maul, Martyn Thomas, Matthew Larsen; Cons: Rhys Jones 3