Connacht Rugby travel to South Africa to face the DHL Stormers in a URC clash that has shifted significantly following squad announcements and major betting movement.

The handicap has moved from Stormers -16.5 to -20.5, reflecting just how weakened this Connacht side is for the trip.

Connacht Squad: Key Absentees and New Look Side

Connacht are without Bundee Aki, Finlay Bealham, Mack Hansen and out-half Josh Ioane — a huge loss of experience, leadership and attacking threat.

That’s some team starting against Connacht, Ten Springboks in the Stormers starting line-up.

The handicap was -21, I’d imagine it will be over 30pts. After a good run, I hope last week and this week doesn’t knock confidence. I’d take 70pts to 20pts and get a try bonus point.

DHL Stormers: Warrick Gelant, Damian Willemse, Ruhan Nel (CAPT), Dan du Plessis, Leolin Zas, Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu, Cobus Reinach, Ntuthuko Mchunu, Scarra Ntubeni, Zachary Porthen, Adré Smith, JD Schickerling, Deon Fourie, Ben-Jason Dixon, Evan Roos
Replacements: André-Hugo Venter, Oli Kebble, Neethling Fouché, Ruben van Heerden, Marcel Theunissen, Paul de Villiers, Stefan Ungerer, Wandisile Simelane

Connacht Rugby: Sam Gilbert, Harry West, John Devine, Cathal Forde, Shayne Bolton, Sean Naughton, Ben Murphy; Billy Bohan, Dave Heffernan, Sam Illo, David O’Connor, Darragh Murray, Cian Prendergast (CAPT), Shamus Hurley-Langton, Sean Jansen
Replacements: Matthew Victory, Peter Dooley, Jack Aungier, Josh Murphy, Paul Boyle, Colm Reilly, Jack Carty, Hugh Gavin

DHL Stormers Director of Rugby John Dobson said: “Everyone at the club would like to celebrate Chippie’s life and make this a special occasion to pay our respects to someone who meant so much to us, but we will not let that distract us from the task on the field.

“This is a crucial game in the context of our season and we face a strong Connacht team that will be playing to keep their play-off hopes alive. It will require a focused and clinical performance from us as we aim to take a step closer to securing home advantage in the knock-out phase of the season,”

Connacht Rugby Head Coach Stuart Lancaster said: “We’ve had a good week so far in South Africa and spirits are high ahead of two very important games, and to have four players in Jansen, Heffernan, West and Gavin all return from injury is a great boost for us. We know that playing the Stormers in Cape Town means we can expect huge physicality, so we’ll have to match them in that area from the first minute while being clinical when the opportunities arise.”

Stormers Strengths

The Stormers bring serious firepower into this game:

• Evan Roos – 9 tries this season
• Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu – 89 points
• Jurie Matthee – 78 points

They combine physical dominance with attacking pace — exactly the kind of team that punishes weakened touring sides.

Why the Betting Line Moved

The shift from -16.5 to -20.5 isn’t random — it’s reaction to:

• Loss of Connacht’s international core
• Travel factor to South Africa
• Reduced control at 10 without Ioane
• Less strike threat without Hansen and Aki

This is what sharp money looks like — reacting early to information.

Betting Analysis

At -20.5, you’re no longer getting early value.

But stylistically, this is still a mismatch:

• Stormers dominate collisions
• Connacht lack game control
• Depth drop-off is significant

Connacht’s best chance is chaos — quick tempo, broken play — but South African conditions rarely allow that.

Prediction

This has all the signs of a long night for Connacht.

They still have quality players like Carty, Prendergast, and Jansen, but the overall drop in experience is too big.

Prediction: Stormers to win comfortably

• Main Bet: Stormers -20.5
• Alternative: Stormers winning margin 21+

Correct Score Prediction: Stormers 40–15 Connacht

Verdict: The market has reacted correctly, but probably still not enough. This Connacht side is a level below what they’ve been fielding in recent weeks, and against a strong Stormers outfit away from home, that usually ends one way.

The post Stormers vs Connacht Preview: Team News, Stats, Betting Odds Shift & Prediction appeared first on SportsNewsIreland.

Ulster Rugby welcome Leinster Rugby in what promises to be one of the standout fixtures in the URC calendar, with both sides bringing strong form, elite attacking threats, and plenty of recent history into the clash.

With the betting line set at Ulster -2.5, this is a fascinating matchup that pits home advantage against long-term dominance.

Recent Form: Ulster vs Leinster

Ulster Form (Last 6)

• Lost 22–27 vs Scarlets
• Won 22–14 vs Cardiff Rugby
• Lost 10–21 vs Ospreys
• Won 40–19 vs Edinburgh Rugby
• Lost 19–26 vs Connacht
• Won 28–12 vs Zebre Parma

Ulster’s form has been inconsistent, with 3 wins and 3 losses, but their victories have been convincing, particularly the 40–19 win over Edinburgh.

Leinster Form (Last 6)

• Won 52–17 vs Connacht
• Won 34–23 vs Connacht
• Won 28–20 vs Edinburgh
• Lost 7–8 vs Cardiff Rugby
• Lost 17–38 vs Glasgow Warriors
• Won 36–19 vs Scarlets

Leinster arrive with 4 wins from 6, showing strong attacking output, scoring 52 and 36 points in recent fixtures.

Key Trends & Stats

• Ulster’s last three URC matches have been won by the away team
• Ulster’s only loss at home this season: 19–26 vs Connacht
• Leinster’s last six matches were all won by the home side
• Leinster have lost just once in Ireland since May 2024
• Leinster have won the last four meetings vs Ulster

That last stat is critical — Leinster have completely controlled this fixture in recent seasons.

Head-to-Head Record

Recent Meetings

• Leinster 24–20 Ulster (Dec 2025)
• Leinster 41–17 Ulster (Apr 2025)
• Ulster 20–27 Leinster (Nov 2024)
• Leinster 43–20 Ulster (Jun 2024)
• Ulster 23–21 Leinster (May 2024)
• Leinster 22–21 Ulster (Jan 2024)

Leinster have won 5 of the last 6 meetings, often by comfortable margins.

URC All-Time Record

• Ulster: 486 games – 287 wins (59.05%)
• Leinster: 500 games – 358 wins (71.60%)

Leinster’s long-term dominance in the competition is clear, boasting a significantly higher win rate.

Key Players to Watch

Top Try Scorers 2025/26

• Ulster: Werner Kok (7), Tom Stewart (6), Zac Ward (6)
• Leinster: Joshua Kenny (9), Scott Penny (5), Tommy O’Brien (5)

Top Points Scorers

• Ulster: Nathan Doak (83), Werner Kok (35)
• Leinster: Harry Byrne (55), Joshua Kenny (45), Sam Prendergast (36)

Head-to-Head Specialists

• Ulster: Craig Gilroy (7 tries), David Humphreys (88 points)
• Leinster: Dan Sheehan (7 tries), Ross Byrne (107 points)

Leinster’s depth in scoring options gives them a slight edge, particularly with multiple players contributing consistently.

Ulster Rugby v Leinster Rugby

Affidea Stadium, Belfast – KO 19.45 IRE & UK / 20.45 ITA & SA

Referee: Andrew Brace (IRFU, 115th league game)

AR 1: Andrew Cole (IRFU) AR 2: Tomás O’Sullivan (IRFU)

TMO: Olly Hodges (IRFU)

Live on: Premier Sports, SuperSport, Flo Rugby & URC.tv

Ulster Rugby: Jacob Stockdale, Werner Kok, James Hume, Stuart McCloskey, Zac Ward, Jack Murphy, Nathan Doak, Angus Bell, Tom Stewart, Tom O’Toole, Iain Henderson (CAPT), Cormac Izuchukwu, David McCann, Sean Reffell, Juarno Augustus

Replacements: James McCormick, Sam Crean, Scott Wilson, Harry Sheridan, Bryn Ward, Conor McKee, Jake Flannery, Jude Postlethwaite

Leinster Rugby: Hugo Keenan, Joshua Kenny, Garry Ringrose, Robbie Henshaw, Jimmy O’Brien, Sam Prendergast, Luke McGrath; Jerry Cahir, Rónan Kelleher, Thomas Clarkson, Brian Deeny, James Ryan (CAPT), Alex Soroka, Scott Penny, James Culhane

Replacements: Gus McCarthy, Ed Byrne, Rabah Slimani, Conor O’Tighearnaigh, Max Deegan, Will Connors, Fintan Gunne, Ciarán Frawley

Leinster Rugby Assistant Coach Tyler Bleyendaal said: “It’s a massive game. Ulster are ahead of us on the table. We’re going up looking for that performance that we haven’t quite nailed the last couple of weeks.”

Leinster have only 3 starters for the European team. Ulster are fully loaded

Betting Analysis: Ulster -2.5

This is where things get interesting.

On paper, Ulster -2.5 suggests the market is leaning heavily on home advantage. And there is logic to that:

• Ulster are strong at home
• Leinster’s away performances have been less consistent
• Ulster’s wins have been by decent margins

But here’s the reality check:

• have won 5 of the last 6 meetings
• Leinster rarely lose in Ireland
• Ulster’s inconsistency is a real concern

Prediction

This comes down to one question: Do you trust form or history?

Ulster have the home edge and enough firepower to win this. But Leinster have rested a lot of first team players, but there backs will do loads of damage. Should be entertaining second half

Prediction: Leinster to win

Best Bet: Leinster +4.5

Correct Score Prediction: Ulster 17–23 Leinster

Verdict: The line looks slightly off. Leinster as underdogs, even marginally, is value. Unless Ulster produce their best performance of the season, Leinster should edge this.

The post Ulster vs Leinster Preview: Stats, Form Guide, Betting Tips & Prediction appeared first on SportsNewsIreland.

European knockout rugby takes centre stage again this weekend with Leinster, Ulster and Connacht all facing huge tests in the EPCR Champions Cup and EPCR Challenge Cup. Leinster welcome Sale Sharks in a heavyweight Champions Cup clash, while Ulster and Connacht are both in Challenge Cup action against French opposition. Below is a full look at the expected handicap lines and match predictions for all three fixtures.

Leinster v Sale Sharks prediction, handicap and preview

Competition: Investec Champions Cup
Date: Saturday
Time: 5:30pm

Leinster look capable of putting up another huge score this weekend. They were ruthless in the previous round and, on current form, they have the firepower to blow most teams away once they get on top physically. Sale Sharks deserve real credit for being the only away side to win in the Round of 16, but this is a much bigger challenge altogether.

The injuries to Luke Cowan-Dickie and Bevan Rodd are major setbacks. Against a Leinster side that can dominate at the set-piece, flood the breakdown and punish mistakes with ruthless efficiency, those losses could be badly exposed. Leinster’s depth, pace and power should tell over 80 minutes, especially if they build scoreboard pressure early.

Sale will need a near-perfect display to stay in touch, but it is hard to see them living with Leinster for the full contest. The Irish province should control territory, possession and the physical battle.

• Expected handicap: Leinster -20
• Prediction: Leinster to win comfortably
• Likely margin: 30 to 40 points would not be a surprise

Ulster v La Rochelle prediction, handicap and preview

Competition: EPCR Challenge Cup
Date: Friday
Time: 8:00pm

This looks one of the ties of the weekend. Ulster at home always makes life awkward for any visiting side, but La Rochelle bring serious pedigree and huge motivation into this one. With their season having lacked consistency, there is every reason to think Ronan O’Gara will send his team out with full focus. Winning this competition would go a long way towards rescuing their campaign.

Ulster will believe they have a real chance if they can bring energy, accuracy and emotion from the first whistle. Ravenhill under the lights can be a serious venue when the home side get momentum, and that makes this far trickier than a straightforward French power game.

La Rochelle have rested almost all of their main players 

• Expected handicap: La Rochelle +18
• Prediction: Too close to call with confidence
• Verdict: Genuine toss-up

Montpellier v Connacht prediction, handicap and preview

Competition: EPCR Challenge Cup
Date: Saturday
Time: 12:30pm

Connacht come into this game in excellent form after five straight wins, but this is a serious jump in class. Montpellier have far greater power, depth and top-end quality than the teams Connacht have been beating, and that is what makes this fixture so difficult to assess positively from an Irish perspective.

Connacht have shown real resilience and confidence in recent weeks, and there is no question they are playing with belief. Even so, Montpellier at home is a different proposition entirely. Their physicality through the middle of the pitch, combined with the ability to turn pressure into quick scores, means they can put teams away in bursts.

For Connacht to stay in the contest, they will need to start well, manage territory intelligently and avoid letting the game become a loose, broken-field battle dominated by the hosts. On paper, though, Montpellier look too strong.

• Expected handicap: Montpellier -16
• Prediction: Montpellier to win
• Likely margin: Somewhere around the handicap looks about right

European rugby weekend predictions summary

Leinster look the most straightforward call of the three Irish provinces this weekend and should have too much for Sale Sharks in the Champions Cup. Ulster against La Rochelle has all the ingredients of a classic and feels the hardest match to confidently pick. Connacht’s recent run deserves respect, but Montpellier away in the Challenge Cup looks a step too far.

• Best bet on the handicap: Leinster -20
• Hardest game to call: Ulster v La Rochelle
• Most dangerous away trip: Connacht at Montpellier

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Expected Handicaps & Predictions – Champions Cup Weekend

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This secures the futures of four key players as Ireland Head Coach Andy Farrell builds his squad towards Men’s Rugby World Cup 2027.

Bundee Aki

Connacht’s Aki has signed a new one-year contract extension. Leinster duo van der Flier and Gibson-Park have put pen to paper on two-year deals up until the end of the 2027/28 season. Sheehan has committed his future to Ireland and Leinster for a further three years until the end of the 2028/29 campaign.

Since making his debut against South Africa in 2017, Aki has been an influential figure in Ireland’s midfield, winning 69 Test caps in green, most recently coming off the bench in Saturday’s victory over Scotland.

Aki has won three Guinness Men’s Six Nations titles with Ireland, including two Grand Slams, and in 2023 was nominated for the World Rugby Men’s XVs Player of the Year award.

Josh van de Flier

Van der Flier won his 79th Test cap in green at the weekend, with his performances throughout the Championship campaign underlining his enduring worth in Ireland’s back row.

The 2022 World Rugby 15s Player of the Year remains a key part of Farrell’s side and will continue playing his rugby with Ireland and Leinster until the end of the 2027/28 campaign.

Jamison Gibson-Park

Gibson-Park was one of Ireland’s outstanding performers throughout the Guinness Men’s Six Nations, most notably at Twickenham where his Player of the Match performance inspired Farrell’s side to a memorable bonus point win.

The scrum-half won his 50th Ireland cap against Wales earlier this month and news of his commitment to Ireland and Leinster for a further two years is a major boost.

Dan Sheehan

27-year-old Sheehan has established himself as one of the game’s leading players since breaking on to the international scene against Japan in 2021, winning 39 Ireland caps in that time.

On Saturday, the hooker scored his 15th Six Nations try in green and Sheehan is a central figure in Ireland’s pack.

Key leaders

Ireland Head Coach Andy Farrell said of today’s contract extensions:

“You cannot underestimate the outstanding contributions of these four players to Irish Rugby over many years. That they see their futures here is a significant boost, which I have no doubt will delight Ireland supporters around the world. They are all key leaders who put their bodies on the line time and time again in reaching the highest standards on the field.

“All four players are a pleasure to work with and have played key roles throughout the recent Guinness Men’s Six Nations. In congratulating Bundee, Jamison, Dan and Josh on their new contracts, we look forward to seeing them progress in Ireland in the months and years to come.”

The post Sheehan, Aki, Gibson-Park & van der Flier agree contract extensions appeared first on SportsNewsIreland.

Ireland U20s play Scotland at Virgin Media Park in Cork on Sunday, with a 3.15pm kick-off.

The game will be broadcast live on RTÉ 2.

With three consecutive victories this spring, Ireland are bidding to finish their Championship on a high against the Scots.

Head Coach Andrew Browne has named an unchanged backline from last weekend’s victory over Wales.

Noah Byrne, Derry Moloney and Daniel Ryan continue in Ireland’s back three.

James O’Leary and Rob Carney are the centres, with scrum-half Christopher Barrett once again partnering out-half Tom Wood in the half-backs.

In the pack, Max Doyle, Duinn Maguire and captain Sami Bishti are in the front row. Joe  Finn and Donnacha McGuire are named in the engine room. Josh Neill continues at blindside flanker, Ben Blaney is named at openside and Diarmaid O’Connell completes the Ireland starting team at number eight.

On the Ireland U20 bench, Lee Fitzpatrick, Christian Foley, Luke Murtagh, Dylan McNeice, Billy Hayes, James O’Dwyer, Charlie O’Shea and Johnny O’Sullivan are the replacements named.

Ireland U20s Team

15. Noah Byrne, 14. Derry Moloney, 13. Rob Carney, 12. James O’Leary, 11. Daniel Ryan,
10. Tom Wood, 9. Christopher Barrett.

1. Max Doyle, 2. Duinn Maguire, 3. Sami Bishti (captain), 4. Joe Finn, 5. Donnacha McGuire, 6. Josh Neill, 7. Ben Blaney, 8. Diarmaid O’Connell.

Ireland U20s Replacements

16. Lee Fitzpatrick, 17. Christian Foley, 18. Luke Murtagh, 19. Dylan McNeice, 20. Billy Hayes, 21. James O’Dwyer, 22. Charlie O’Shea, 23. Johnny O’Sullivan.

The post Ireland U20 v Scotland U20 – Sunday, 3.15pm Virgin Media Park appeared first on SportsNewsIreland.

Andy Farrell’s men scored a total of six tries tries, with Jack Crowley converting five of them, as well as adding a penalty, as the hosts claimed a 73rd victory over the Celtic neighbours, and their 11th Triple Crown.

By the end of the game, Ireland sat atop the Guinness Six Nations table, but with further games to come later today, France still have to be favourites to be crowned Guinness Six Nations champions for 2026.

Ireland set early pace

Ireland began the game at break-neck pace and were on the scoreboard within 4 minutes thanks to Jamie Osborne. With the hosts pressurising the Scottish defence which was pegged on their own line, the Ireland fullback ran a great line to touch down underneath the posts.

Jack Crowley, with his first kick at goal, converted a relatively standard effort for a 7-0 lead for Andy Farrell’s side.

𝐓𝐑𝐘! Jamie Osborne!

Ireland go quickly off the top after the penalty, neat passes from Doris and Crowley see Osborne crash over under the posts! Conversion by Jack Crowley

IRELAND 7 – 0 SCOTLAND#IREvSCO | #GuinnessM6N pic.twitter.com/C0j5ZduKx6

— Virgin Media Sport (@VMSportIE) March 14, 2026

Graham crosses over for Scots

The Ireland score seemed to kick the Scots into gear and immediately went on the attack. The Scottish offence went left and then back to the right-hand side of the field to find Darcy Graham. The Scotland record try-scorer added to his record to the delight of the large and vocal travelling fans in the stadium. Despite a difficult position out on the touchline, the ever accurate Finn Russell converted to level the score.

SCOTLAND STRIKES!

Finn Russell’s slick passing frees Graham for the right corner

IRELAND 7 – 7 SCOTLAND#IREvSCO | #GuinnessM6N pic.twitter.com/f8ioXEoVCg

— Virgin Media Sport (@VMSportIE) March 14, 2026

Sheehan crashes over for try

The pace of the game was maintained by Ireland who soon found themselves deep inside Scottish territory. With a Scottish player speaking out of turn, his side was penalised 10 yards.

Ireland kicked for touch, won the ensuing lineout comfortably, and hooker Dan Sheehan scored his 18th international five-pointer as he crashed over from close range.
A more difficult kick for Crowley this time sailed between the posts for the Cork Constitution man to maintain his 100% record of goal kicking to that stage of the game. Ireland were 14-7 ahead, having scored two converted tries, but they were only 11 minutes played.

𝐖𝐇𝐀𝐓 𝐀 𝐓𝐑𝐘!

Dan Sheehan Powers over from a few metres out after a strong maul

IRELAND 14 – 7 SCOTLAND#IREvSCO | #GuinnessM6N pic.twitter.com/NON8zeg9qg

— Virgin Media Sport (@VMSportIE) March 14, 2026

Baloucoune shows his speed

Speedster Rob Baloucoune was next to get in on the try-scoring act. With the home side on the attack, the winger initially found himself unmarked on the West Stand side of the ground, and once he received possession of the ball, he put on the burners before stretching for the line. Keeping his feet high and in play, the Ulsterman successfully touched the ball down for 19-7. Crowley missed his first kick at the posts when attempting to convert his side’s third try of the opening quarter.

𝐄𝐱𝐜𝐞𝐥𝐥𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐅𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐬𝐡!

Robert Baloucoune blazes over from 30 metres!

IRELAND 19 SCOTLAND 7#IREvSCO | #GuinnessM6N pic.twitter.com/G50dL7ixl2

— Virgin Media Sport (@VMSportIE) March 14, 2026

Half-time: Ireland 19 Scotland 7

It was first blood to the Scots in the second period. With momentum in their favour, Finn Russell scored his side’s second try of the game, before then converting his own five-pointer. The visitors had now reduced the difference on the scoreboard to 19-14.

𝗦𝗖𝗢𝗧𝗟𝗔𝗡𝗗 𝗥𝗘𝗦𝗣𝗢𝗡𝗗𝗦!

Russell fools the defence and crashes over near the corner!#IREvSCO | #GuinnessM6N pic.twitter.com/aJxUtMdtDA

— Virgin Media Sport (@VMSportIE) March 14, 2026

Try for Murray on Six Nations debut

Connacht’s Darragh Murray made a dream Guinness Six Nations debut. Not long on the field following the exit of Tadhg Beirne for a HIA. The Buccaneers’ man claimed the bonus-point try for his side during a short period of time on the field. With Crowley adding the extras, it looked as though Ireland was about to move well ahead of the Scots.

𝐖𝐇𝐀𝐓 𝐀 𝐃𝐄𝐁𝐔𝐓!

Murray crosses the line brilliantly under Dempsey!

IRELAND 24 – 14 SCOTLAND#IREvSCO | #GuinnessM6N pic.twitter.com/vuNYQlnAj5

— Virgin Media Sport (@VMSportIE) March 14, 2026

Despite a 26-14 score line, the visitors replied with another converted try. Rory Darge, the Scottish vice-captain crossed over for the score, before Russell kicked his third conversion of the afternoon. It was now 26-21 with over 20 minutes left to play on the match clock.

Ireland replacements

With 14 minutes to play, the Ireland management made six replacements. The entire front row was changed, Murray came back on – this time for Joe McCarthy – Ciarán Frawley and Bundee Aki entered the fray in place of Garry Ringrose and Rob Baloucoune.

Two-try O’Brien

Tommy O’Brien added a fifth Irish try, and his 7th in the green jersey, when crossing over on 68 minutes. Crowley converted the score to move his side out to a 33-21 lead. Crowley soon scored a penalty – his first of the game – and Ireland were well in control on the scoreboard, 36-21.

O’Brien showed his fantastic pace to add a scored try just at the death. With all the pressure off, and victory assured, Crowley converted a tricky attempt for Ireland to run out victorious on a 43-21 score line, and claim the Triple Crown.

𝐎’𝐁𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐧 𝐮𝐧𝐬𝐭𝐨𝐩𝐩𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞!

Tommy O’Brien tears through the Scottish defence!

IRELAND 31 – 21 SCOTLAND#IREvSCO | #GuinnessM6N pic.twitter.com/lDjgwDaduW

— Virgin Media Sport (@VMSportIE) March 14, 2026

Final score: Ireland 43 Scotland 21

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The game is live on Virgin Media One television, with live radio commentary on RTÉ Radio One.

Captain Caelan Doris leads Ireland into their final game of this season’s Guinness Six Nations Championship.

Jamie Osborne, Rob Baloucoune and Tommy O’Brien are the Ireland back three.

Stuart McCloskey and Garry Ringrose are again named in midfield, with Jamison Gibson-Park and Jack Crowley linking up in the half-backs.

In the front row, Tom O’Toole, Dan Sheehan and Tadhg Furlong are chosen. Joe McCarthy and Tadhg Beirne will start in the engine room.

Jack Conan is the choice for the role of blindside flanker, Josh van der Flier will start at openside, while Caelan Doris completes Ireland’s starting team at number eight.

Ireland Bench

Andy Farrell has strong options on the bench.

Rónan Kelleher, Michael Milne, Finlay Bealham, Darragh Murray – who is in line for his Six Nations debut – and Nick Timoney make up the forward replacements.

The backline replacements are Craig Casey, Ciaran Frawley and Bundee Aki.

Trophy up for grabs

Speaking during the week as he looked forward to this afternoon’s game, Andy Farrell stated:

“It is an incredible privilege for the squad to play at home in front of a packed Aviva Stadium with a trophy up for grabs. We know about the challenge facing us on Saturday and Scotland will travel with confidence. You’ll see two teams who like to attack and we’ll look to implement our game plan to get the performance that we want. When you factor in a loud home support, and with the game taking place on St Patrick’s weekend, it really has all the ingredients for a cracking contest.”

Ireland Team

15. Jamie Osborne, 14. Rob Baloucoune, 13. Garry Ringrose, 12. Stuart McCloskey, 11. Tommy O’Brien, 10. Jack Crowley, 9. Jamison Gibson-Park.

1. Tom O’Toole, 2. Dan Sheehan, 3. Tadhg Furlong, 4. Joe McCarthy, 5. Tadhg Beirne, 6. Jack Conan, 7. Josh van der Flier, 8. Caelan Doris (captain).

Ireland Replacements:

16. Rónan Kelleher, 17. Michael Milne, 18. Finlay Bealham, 19. Darragh Murray, 20. Nick Timoney, 21. Craig Casey, 22. Ciaran Frawley, 23. Bundee Aki.

The post Ireland v Scotland in Guinness Six Nations at 2.10pm appeared first on SportsNewsIreland.

Opening half tries for Stockdale and Crowley, along with five-pointers from Conan and Osborne in the second half, saw Ireland claim their 60th win over Wales, in this the 137th meeting between the two countries.

Ireland score early

Ireland got on the board early with a try from Jacob Stockdale. The Lurgan winger crossed for the five-pointer with only five minutes on the clock. Touching down just marginally right of the right-hand post presented Jack Crowley with an easy conversion attempt, which he comfortably slotted over for a 7-0 Ireland lead.

Try Ireland!

Ireland on the front foot from the off and Jacob Stockdale has their first try of the night.

RTE2/RTÉ Player

https://t.co/RedYzrm2BX

RTÉ Radio 1/Tráchtaireacht Ghaeilge – RTÉ news channel/RTÉ Player pic.twitter.com/P6TwTBMFN2

— RTÉ Sport (@RTEsport) March 6, 2026

Jack Conan thought he had scored his side’s second try of the night when beating two Welsh defenders to touch down in the 12th minute. Just as Crowley was about to kick the conversion, the referee Karl Dickson decided to consult with his TMO, Andrew Jackson. The decision was that front row Tom O’Toole had knocked the ball on at the back of the ruck, meaning the try was disallowed.

Edwards gets Wales on scoreboard

Dan Edwards had an easy effort to register the visitors’ first score of the game with a penalty kick from directly in front of the posts. The Ospreys’ kicker succeeded in reducing the deficit and brought his side to within four points of Ireland, with 17 minutes played.

Crowley touches down

Jack Crowley found himself in a two-on-one situation, played a dummy, and took the five points. The try, his fourth international try, pushed Ireland into a 12-3 lead. The Corkman missed the conversion which followed, however.

Try Ireland!

The home side back in control as Jack Crowley scores Ireland’s second try of the night.

RTE2/RTÉ Player
https://t.co/RedYzrm2BX
RTÉ Radio 1/Tráchtaireacht Ghaeilge – RTÉ news channel/RTÉ Player pic.twitter.com/XKcohsAo1W

— RTÉ Sport (@RTEsport) March 6, 2026

Wales close the gap

With the match clock past 40 minutes, Wales scored a try against the run of play. Front row, Rhys Carre of Saracens, showed quite a turn of foot for a prop, and scored despite the best efforts of Robert Baloucoune.

With Dan Edwards adding the extras, Ireland only took a two-point advantage into the dressing room at the break, leading 12-10

Ireland dominated the possession with 65%, the territory with 60%, made 93% of their tackles and covered 286 metres in the first half but will have felt disappointed heading to the dressing room at half-time with just a slender two-point lead.

Half-time score: Ireland 12 Wales 10

Jack Conan touched down early in the second period. The referee, Karl Dickson, again checked the validity of this score with his TMO, Andrew Jackson.

Try Ireland!

Jack Conan was denied by the TMO in the first half, and nearly again here, but he has his try and Ireland lead 19-10.

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Conan Try

It took some time for the English referee to decide to award the score, but to the delight of the fans behind the posts, Conan’s try was confirmed. Crowley successfully kicked his second of three conversion attempts by that stage of the game, as Ireland moved into a 19-10 lead.

Wales hit back through Cardiff Rugby’s James Botham. The grandson of former England cricketer, Ian, the flanker crashed over left of the Irish posts following a period of relentless pressure from the visitors.

Try Wales!

Relentless pressure on the Irish line and eventually James Botham makes it count – Ireland lead by two points.

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Dan Edwards added another conversion for the night to bring his side to within two points of the hosts. It was 19-17 with 16 minutes remaining on the stadium clock.

This seemed to be the warning Ireland required. Pressure from the hosts eventually saw fullback Jamie Osborne claim his fifth international try.

Try Ireland!

Jamie Osborne with a huge score in Dublin as they try and see off this stiff Welsh challenge. Bonus point secured.

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Despite a relatively easy conversion effort, Crowley missed his second kick at goals, as Ireland took a 24-17 advantage into the final 11 minutes of this Guinness Six Nations fixture.

Jack Crowley’s late penalty put Ireland’s supporters and management at ease as his score pushed Andy Farrell’s side to a 27-17 win.

Final score: Ireland 27  Wales 17 

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Connacht’s URC season feels like it’s hanging on a knife edge heading into this one.

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Three rounds into the 2026 Six Nations and the numbers are already shaping the storylines: France look the most clinical, Scotland the most efficient, England are living off territory, Ireland are still chasing precision, while Wales and Italy have quietly put up some fascinating underlying metrics.

50 Stats That Explain the First Three Rounds of the 2026 Six Nations

Below are 50 stats from the opening three rounds that show what’s working, what’s wobbling, and what might decide the championship run-in.

France: the benchmark (and the risk)

1. Total metres gained: France lead the tournament with 1,972m.
2. First-phase tries: France have scored 9, the most in the championship.
3. 22m efficiency: France convert 40.9% of 22m entries into tries.
4. Chip kicks: France lead with 11.
5. Box kicks: France have used 40, second only to Wales.
6. 50/22 success: France are one of only two teams with a successful 50/22.
7. Lineout errors: France have a perfect record with 0.
8. Maul-to-try: France are one of only two teams to convert a maul into a try.
9. Early momentum: France have scored 3 tries inside the opening 10 minutes.
10. Turnovers conceded: France have conceded a tournament-high 59.

France look the most dangerous side in the competition — but that turnover count is the one number that can keep others in touching distance.

Ireland: pressure without polish

11. Scrum offences: Ireland have conceded the most with 12.
12. Lineout errors: Ireland lead the tournament with 3.
13. Tackle success: Ireland sit at 75.00%.
14. Turnovers conceded: Ireland have conceded 43.
15. Rucks won in opposition 22: Ireland have recorded 30.
16. 50/22 success: Ireland are one of the two teams to execute one successfully.
17. Restart retention: Ireland have retained 1 restart kick.
18. Early momentum: Ireland have scored 2 tries inside the opening 10 minutes.

The underlying pressure is there for Ireland, but set-piece errors and scrum discipline are leaving points on the pitch.

Scotland: efficiency, accuracy, composure

19. Tackle success: Scotland lead the tournament at 85.22%.
20. Turnovers conceded: Scotland have conceded 32.
21. Maul-to-try: Scotland are one of only two teams to convert a maul into a try.
22. Restart retention: Scotland lead with 2 retained restart kicks.
23. Chip kicks: Scotland have attempted 5.
24. Rucks won in opposition 22: Scotland have recorded 12.
25. Early momentum: Scotland have scored 2 tries inside the opening 10 minutes.

Scotland aren’t topping every “power” category, but their efficiency stats are screaming “hard to beat”.

England: territory kings, ball security worries

26. Territorial kicking metres: England lead with 2,893m kicked.
27. Box kicks: England have used 26.
28. Tackle success: England sit at 79.06%.
29. Turnovers conceded: England have conceded 56.
30. Chip kicks: England have attempted 6.
31. Rucks won in opposition 22: England have recorded 14.
32. Early momentum: England have scored 2 tries inside the opening 10 minutes.

England are controlling where games are played — but that turnover figure is the red flag.

Wales: high work-rate, strong retention, blunt edge

33. Box kicks: Wales lead the tournament with 43.
34. Turnovers conceded: Wales are the best in the championship with just 26.
35. Rucks won in opposition 22: Wales lead with 33.
36. Tackle success: Wales sit at 76.37%.
37. Turnover profile: Wales have conceded 33 fewer turnovers than France (26 vs 59).
38. Territory approach: Wales are the most committed to contestable-kick pressure (box-kick volume No.1).
39. Red-zone presence: Wales have spent plenty of time in the 22 (rucks won No.1) but haven’t matched France’s conversion rate.
40. Ball security: Wales’ retention is better than every other nation after three rounds.

Wales’ numbers suggest a side that can build pressure and keep the ball — the missing piece is turning that work into tries.

Italy: competitive in spells, still chasing cutting edge

41. 22m efficiency: Italy convert just 16.7% of 22m entries into tries.
42. Tackle success: Italy sit at 78.86%.
43. Turnovers conceded: Italy have conceded 52.
44. Chip kicks: Italy have attempted 3 (lowest in the tournament table shown).
45. Rucks won in opposition 22: Italy have recorded 13.
46. Early momentum: Italy have scored 1 try inside the opening 10 minutes.

Italy’s defence is not miles off, but their 22m conversion number explains why strong periods aren’t becoming scoreboard pressure.

Set-piece & discipline: the hidden swing factors

47. Scrum discipline: Ireland have conceded the most scrum offences (12), while England and Wales are the most disciplined (5 each).
48. Maul strategy: England have attempted the most mauls (24), but only France and Scotland have converted a maul into a try.
49. Lineout accuracy: Ireland lead lineout offences (3), while France have made 0 lineout errors.
50. Defensive danger-zone penalties: Wales have conceded the most in defence (23), closely followed by England (22).

What the numbers really mean after three rounds

France have the most clinical attack, Scotland have the cleanest efficiency profile, England are living off territory, and Ireland’s underlying pressure is being undermined by set-piece and discipline issues.

But don’t ignore Wales and Italy. Wales are leading the tournament for red-zone rucks and ball retention — those are foundations you can build on quickly if the attack clicks. Italy’s conversion rate tells you exactly why they’re not turning competitiveness into wins.

Two rounds remain. If one side improves a single lever — France reducing turnovers, Ireland cleaning up scrum/lineout, or Wales sharpening 22m conversion — the table can still shift fast.

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