Rugby Irish Archives - SportsNewsIreland https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/category/rugby/rugby_irish Sports News, Live GAA scores, GAA fixtures Sat, 14 Mar 2026 16:14:58 +0000 en-GB hourly 1 https://i0.wp.com/www.sportsnewsireland.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/sni-icon.jpg?fit=32%2C32&ssl=1 Rugby Irish Archives - SportsNewsIreland https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/category/rugby/rugby_irish 32 32 229439223 Ireland U20 v Scotland U20 – Sunday, 3.15pm Virgin Media Park https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/rugby/ireland-u20-v-scotland-u20-sunday-3-15pm-virgin-media-park https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/rugby/ireland-u20-v-scotland-u20-sunday-3-15pm-virgin-media-park#respond Sun, 15 Mar 2026 00:01:27 +0000 https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/?p=35442 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 […]

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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.

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]]> https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/rugby/ireland-u20-v-scotland-u20-sunday-3-15pm-virgin-media-park/feed 0 35442 Ireland win TRIPLE CROWN with 43-21 win over Scotland https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/rugby/ireland-win-triple-crown-with-43-21-win-over-scotland https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/rugby/ireland-win-triple-crown-with-43-21-win-over-scotland#respond Sat, 14 Mar 2026 16:13:54 +0000 https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/?p=35444 Ireland defeated Scotland 43-21 in the Guinness Six Nations at the Aviva Stadium on Saturday and sealed the Triple Crown in the process. 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 […]

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]]> Ireland defeated Scotland 43-21 in the Guinness Six Nations at the Aviva Stadium on Saturday and sealed the Triple Crown in the process.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Final score: Ireland 43 Scotland 21

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]]> https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/rugby/ireland-win-triple-crown-with-43-21-win-over-scotland/feed 0 35444 Ireland v Scotland in Guinness Six Nations at 2.10pm https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/rugby/ireland-v-scotland-in-guinness-six-nations-at-2-10pm https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/rugby/ireland-v-scotland-in-guinness-six-nations-at-2-10pm#respond Sat, 14 Mar 2026 12:29:14 +0000 https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/?p=35439 Head Coach Andy Farrell’s Ireland side play Scotland this afternoon in the Guinness Men’s Six Nations at a sold-out Aviva Stadium (Kick-off 2.10pm). 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 […]

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]]> Head Coach Andy Farrell’s Ireland side play Scotland this afternoon in the Guinness Men’s Six Nations at a sold-out Aviva Stadium (Kick-off 2.10pm).

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.

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]]> https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/rugby/ireland-v-scotland-in-guinness-six-nations-at-2-10pm/feed 0 35439 Ireland claim 27-17 bonus-point win over Wales https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/rugby/ireland-claim-27-17-bonus-point-win-over-wales https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/rugby/ireland-claim-27-17-bonus-point-win-over-wales#respond Fri, 06 Mar 2026 22:05:06 +0000 https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/?p=35329 Ireland claimed a bonus-point 27-17 win over Wales in the Guinness Six Nations at the Aviva Stadium on Lansdowne Road on Friday night. 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 […]

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]]> Ireland claimed a bonus-point 27-17 win over Wales in the Guinness Six Nations at the Aviva Stadium on Lansdowne Road on Friday night.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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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]]> https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/rugby/ireland-claim-27-17-bonus-point-win-over-wales/feed 0 35329 Connacht Face Season-Defining Clash as Weakened Glasgow Visit Galway https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/rugby/rugby_irish/connacht-face-season-defining-clash-as-weakened-glasgow-visit-galway https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/rugby/rugby_irish/connacht-face-season-defining-clash-as-weakened-glasgow-visit-galway#respond Fri, 27 Feb 2026 10:38:31 +0000 https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/?p=35299 Connacht’s URC season feels like it’s hanging on a knife edge heading into this one. Glasgow Warriors arrive in Galway as league leaders, but with Scotland in Six Nations action, this is not a normal Warriors selection — and it turns this fixture into a genuine opportunity for Stuart Lancaster’s side. On paper it’s top […]

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

Glasgow Warriors arrive in Galway as league leaders, but with Scotland in Six Nations action, this is not a normal Warriors selection — and it turns this fixture into a genuine opportunity for Stuart Lancaster’s side.

On paper it’s top versus mid-table. In reality, the context is doing most of the talking: Glasgow could be without close to 15 frontline players, Connacht are missing Finlay Bealham plus long-term injuries, and the betting line has swung so far that Connacht are around -3 favourites after a season where they’d usually be double-digit underdogs in this match-up.

URC Table Snapshot

  • Glasgow Warriors: 1st — 44 pts from 11 games, +155 PD
  • Connacht: 12th — 21 pts from 10 games, -26 PD

It doesn’t flatter Connacht, but the table is tighter than it looks. A win here keeps the play-off chase alive, especially with Scarlets in two weeks in what becomes a vital mini-block for points.

The Six Nations Factor

Glasgow have been the most consistent side in the URC this season — 44 points, best points difference, and a run that has them looking like champions again. But international windows change everything.

  • Glasgow are expected to be missing ~15 starters due to Scotland duty
  • The handicap has flipped from what would likely be Glasgow -10 in a normal week to Connacht -3
  • Leadership and cohesion are the big risks when you remove a full international spine

They’ll still be structured. They’ll still have threat. But this is the kind of week where depth gets tested properly.

Connacht Recent URC Form

Date Opponent Venue Result F A
29 Nov 2025 Sharks Dexcom Stadium W 44 17
20 Dec 2025 Dragons Rodney Parade L 28 48
27 Dec 2025 Ulster Dexcom Stadium L 24 29
03 Jan 2026 Leinster Aviva Stadium L 17 52
24 Jan 2026 Leinster Dexcom Stadium L 23 34
31 Jan 2026 Zebre Parma Stadio Sergio Lanfranchi W 31 15
  • Connacht have won 2 of their last 6 URC matches
  • The Zebre win (31–15) ended a run of four straight defeats
  • Connacht have lost their last two URC home matches and haven’t lost three in a row at Dexcom Stadium in the Championship since January 2021

Glasgow Recent URC Form

Date Opponent Venue Result F A
29 Nov 2025 Scarlets Parc y Scarlets L 0 23
20 Dec 2025 Edinburgh Hampden Park W 24 12
27 Dec 2025 Edinburgh Scottish Gas Murrayfield W 21 3
03 Jan 2026 Zebre Parma Scotstoun Stadium W 47 10
24 Jan 2026 Zebre Parma Stadio Sergio Lanfranchi W 26 21
30 Jan 2026 Munster Scotstoun Stadium W 31 22
  • Glasgow have won 5 of their last 6 URC matches
  • Their only defeat in that run was 0–23 away to Scarlets
  • They’ve conceded just 91 points across those six matches (avg 15.2 per game)

Recent URC Meetings: Connacht v Glasgow

Date Match Venue Score
22 Feb 2019 Glasgow Warriors v Connacht Scotstoun Stadium 43–17
03 Oct 2020 Connacht v Glasgow Warriors Dexcom Stadium 28–24
29 Jan 2022 Connacht v Glasgow Warriors Dexcom Stadium 20–42
22 Apr 2023 Glasgow Warriors v Connacht Scotstoun Stadium 29–27
28 Oct 2023 Connacht v Glasgow Warriors Dexcom Stadium 34–26
26 Jan 2025 Glasgow Warriors v Connacht Scotstoun Stadium 22–19
  • Connacht’s only win in the last four meetings was 34–26 in Galway in October 2023
  • The last meeting in Scotland was a tight one: Glasgow 22–19 Connacht (January 2025)

URC Era Record

Team Played Wins Win % Losses Draws
Connacht 470 188 40.00% 271 11
Glasgow Warriors 486 275 56.58% 197 14

What It Means for Connacht (and Lancaster)

It’s been a rough first season for Stuart Lancaster results-wise, but the injury context matters. Connacht have been forced to lean on academy players far more than planned, and while that may pay off long-term, the URC table doesn’t wait for development stories.

This game is different. Glasgow are weakened. Connacht are closer to a settled XV than they’ve been in months. That flips the pressure.

With Scarlets coming in two weeks, Connacht need a points haul from this block. Beat Glasgow’s second string at home and you suddenly have a runway. Miss the chance and the season starts slipping away fast.

Key Match Angles

  • Tempo: Connacht should try to play at speed and stretch Glasgow’s combinations
  • Breakdown pressure: less settled Glasgow units can be exposed if Connacht win collisions
  • Game management: Connacht must control exits — Glasgow live off cheap turnover ball

Team News: Connacht Name Strong XV Despite Injury List

Connacht are still dealing with a lengthy injury list, but Stuart Lancaster has been able to name one of his more settled matchday squads in recent weeks.

Unavailable: Finlay Bealham (Ireland), Shayne Bolton (quad), John Devine (foot), Matthew Devine (knee), Oisin Dowling (knee), Hugh Gavin (shoulder), Mack Hansen (foot), David Hawkshaw (groin), Dave Heffernan (calf), Shamus Hurley-Langton (shoulder), Temi Lasisi (knee), Ben Murphy (ribs), Byron Ralston (knee).

There is still a strong look to the starting XV, with captain Paul Boyle leading a pack that includes Denis Buckley and Sean Jansen, while Caolin Blade and Josh Ioane form the half-back pairing.

The midfield sees Cathal Forde continue alongside Harry West, while the back three features Sam Gilbert at full-back with Shane Jennings and Finn Treacy on the wings.

Connacht Matchday Squad

Saturday 28th February, 15:00 — Dexcom Stadium

  • 15. Sam Gilbert
  • 14. Shane Jennings
  • 13. Harry West
  • 12. Cathal Forde
  • 11. Finn Treacy
  • 10. Josh Ioane
  • 9. Caolin Blade
  • 1. Denis Buckley
  • 2. Dylan Tierney-Martin
  • 3. Sam Illo
  • 4. David O’Connor
  • 5. Joe Joyce
  • 6. Paul Boyle (c)
  • 7. Sean O’Brien
  • 8. Sean Jansen

Replacements: Matthew Victory, Billy Bohan, Jack Aungier, Josh Murphy, Cian Prendergast, Colm Reilly, Jack Carty, Bundee Aki.

The bench carries serious experience, with Jack Carty and Bundee Aki providing proven impact options if the game tightens late on.

Prediction

This is the kind of fixture that usually feels like a free swing. Not this week. If Connacht want the play-offs, this is one they have to take.

Connacht by 4–8 points (but only if their set-piece and exits hold up).

 

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]]> https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/rugby/rugby_irish/connacht-face-season-defining-clash-as-weakened-glasgow-visit-galway/feed 0 35299 50 Stats That Explain the First Three Rounds of the 2026 Six Nations https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/rugby/rugby_irish/50-stats-that-explain-the-first-three-rounds-of-the-2026-six-nations https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/rugby/rugby_irish/50-stats-that-explain-the-first-three-rounds-of-the-2026-six-nations#respond Thu, 26 Feb 2026 00:30:31 +0000 https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/?p=35306 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 […]

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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

  1. Scrum offences: Ireland have conceded the most with 12.
  2. Lineout errors: Ireland lead the tournament with 3.
  3. Tackle success: Ireland sit at 75.00%.
  4. Turnovers conceded: Ireland have conceded 43.
  5. Rucks won in opposition 22: Ireland have recorded 30.
  6. 50/22 success: Ireland are one of the two teams to execute one successfully.
  7. Restart retention: Ireland have retained 1 restart kick.
  8. 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

  1. Tackle success: Scotland lead the tournament at 85.22%.
  2. Turnovers conceded: Scotland have conceded 32.
  3. Maul-to-try: Scotland are one of only two teams to convert a maul into a try.
  4. Restart retention: Scotland lead with 2 retained restart kicks.
  5. Chip kicks: Scotland have attempted 5.
  6. Rucks won in opposition 22: Scotland have recorded 12.
  7. 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

  1. Territorial kicking metres: England lead with 2,893m kicked.
  2. Box kicks: England have used 26.
  3. Tackle success: England sit at 79.06%.
  4. Turnovers conceded: England have conceded 56.
  5. Chip kicks: England have attempted 6.
  6. Rucks won in opposition 22: England have recorded 14.
  7. 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

  1. Box kicks: Wales lead the tournament with 43.
  2. Turnovers conceded: Wales are the best in the championship with just 26.
  3. Rucks won in opposition 22: Wales lead with 33.
  4. Tackle success: Wales sit at 76.37%.
  5. Turnover profile: Wales have conceded 33 fewer turnovers than France (26 vs 59).
  6. Territory approach: Wales are the most committed to contestable-kick pressure (box-kick volume No.1).
  7. Red-zone presence: Wales have spent plenty of time in the 22 (rucks won No.1) but haven’t matched France’s conversion rate.
  8. 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

  1. 22m efficiency: Italy convert just 16.7% of 22m entries into tries.
  2. Tackle success: Italy sit at 78.86%.
  3. Turnovers conceded: Italy have conceded 52.
  4. Chip kicks: Italy have attempted 3 (lowest in the tournament table shown).
  5. Rucks won in opposition 22: Italy have recorded 13.
  6. 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

  1. Scrum discipline: Ireland have conceded the most scrum offences (12), while England and Wales are the most disciplined (5 each).
  2. Maul strategy: England have attempted the most mauls (24), but only France and Scotland have converted a maul into a try.
  3. Lineout accuracy: Ireland lead lineout offences (3), while France have made 0 lineout errors.
  4. 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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]]> https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/rugby/rugby_irish/50-stats-that-explain-the-first-three-rounds-of-the-2026-six-nations/feed 0 35306 Ireland side to play England, Saturday at 2.10pm https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/rugby/ireland-side-to-play-england-saturday-at-2-10pm https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/rugby/ireland-side-to-play-england-saturday-at-2-10pm#respond Fri, 20 Feb 2026 23:16:52 +0000 https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/?p=35294 Andy Farrell’s Ireland side take on England in the Guinness Men’s Six Nations at Allianz Stadium, Twickenham, on Saturday (Kick-off 2.10pm). Caelan Doris will lead the Irish team for the Round 3 clash in the English capital, as Ireland bid to build on last Saturday’s defeat of Italy at the Aviva Stadium. Back 3 unchanged […]

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]]>

Andy Farrell’s Ireland side take on England in the Guinness Men’s Six Nations at Allianz Stadium, Twickenham, on Saturday (Kick-off 2.10pm).

Caelan Doris will lead the Irish team for the Round 3 clash in the English capital, as Ireland bid to build on last Saturday’s defeat of Italy at the Aviva Stadium.

Back 3 unchanged

Jamie Osborne, Robert Baloucoune and James Lowe are named in an unchanged back three.

Stuart McCloskey and Garry Ringrose continue in midfield, while Munster’s Jack Crowley comes in at out-half to partner Jamison Gibson-Park in the half-backs.

Jeremy Loughman, Dan Sheehan and Tadhg Furlong are selected in the front row. Joe McCarthy and James Ryan are retained in the engine room. Tadhg Beirne, Josh van der Flier and captain Doris will play in the back row.

Experienced Irish bench

Farrell has named an experienced bench with Rónan Kelleher, Tom O’Toole, Finlay Bealham, Nick Timoney and Jack Conan making up the forward replacements.

The backs named in the Match Day 23 are Craig Casey, Ciaran Frawley and Tommy O’Brien.

Speaking ahead of this weekend’s clash, Head Coach Andy Farrell admitted

“Games between the two sides have been nip and tuck over recent times and there’s great familiarity and respect across both camps. We know their strengths and our aim is to deliver the best version of ourselves to put us in a position to get the performance that we want.”

Live on RTÉ TV and Radio

Saturday’s game will be broadcast live on RTÉ2 and ITV, with live radio commentary available on RTÉ Radio 1.

Ireland Team

15. Jamie Osborne, 14. Robert Baloucoune, 13. Garry Ringrose, 12. Stuart McCloskey,    11. James Lowe, 10. Jack Crowley, 9. Jamison Gibson-Park.

1. Jeremy Loughman, 2. Dan Sheehan, 3. Tadhg Furlong, 4. Joe McCarthy, 5. James Ryan,
6. Tadhg Beirne, 7. Josh van der Flier, 8. Caelan Doris (captain).

Ireland Replacements

16. Rónan Kelleher, 17. Tom O’Toole, 18. Finlay Bealham, 19. Nick Timoney, 20. Jack Conan, 21. Craig Casey, 22. Ciaran Frawley, 23. Tommy O’Brien.

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]]> https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/rugby/ireland-side-to-play-england-saturday-at-2-10pm/feed 0 35294 Munster sign Springbok Marnus van der Merwe https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/rugby/munster-sign-springbok-marnus-van-der-merwe https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/rugby/munster-sign-springbok-marnus-van-der-merwe#respond Fri, 20 Feb 2026 20:41:35 +0000 https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/?p=35289 Munster Rugby and the IRFU have confirmed the signing of Springbok hooker Marnus van der Merwe on a two-year contract ahead of the 2026/27 season. The 29-year-old Van der Merwe’s move will be subject to the granting of a valid work permit. Van der Merwe “excited and honoured” Commenting on the news, van der Merwe […]

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]]> Munster Rugby and the IRFU have confirmed the signing of Springbok hooker Marnus van der Merwe on a two-year contract ahead of the 2026/27 season.

The 29-year-old Van der Merwe’s move will be subject to the granting of a valid work permit.

Van der Merwe “excited and honoured”

Commenting on the news, van der Merwe said:

“I’m excited and honoured to be joining such a prestigious club, with such a proud rugby history. I want to finish the season strong with the Scarlets, before tackling this new challenge with Munster.”

The powerful South African marked his international debut with two tries against Georgia last summer.

He also helped the Springboks to the Rugby Championship title, featuring in the wins over New Zealand and Australia.

Debuted in PRO14 in 2018

From the province of Mpumalanga, van der Merwe played underage rugby with the Pumas before making the move to Cheetahs, where he made his PRO14 debut in 2018.

After winning the Currie Cup with Cheetahs in 2023, he joined Scarlets in 2024. His first season in Wales saw him named in the URC Elite XV alongside Craig Casey and Tom Farrell.

His strong form in 2024/25 earned an international call-up from Rassie Erasmus and he made his first three appearances for the Springboks last year.

He has made 38 appearances for the Scarlets since his debut in September 2024.

Costello welcomes new signing

Munster Rugby General Manager Ian Costello said of the southern province’s newest signing:

“He has been one of the best hookers in the URC over the past two years resulting in a call up to the Springboks squad.

“He is an physical, abrasive hooker, very strong in the set-piece, excellent over the ball, and now has demonstrated his ability to perform at international level.”

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]]> https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/rugby/munster-sign-springbok-marnus-van-der-merwe/feed 0 35289 Ireland beat Italy 20-13 in Guinness Six Nations https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/rugby/ireland-beat-italy-20-13-in-guinness-six-nations https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/rugby/ireland-beat-italy-20-13-in-guinness-six-nations#respond Sat, 14 Feb 2026 16:17:43 +0000 https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/?p=35270 Ireland achieved their first Guinness Six Nations win of the season as they took their 35th test match victory against Italy at the Aviva Stadium on Saturday afternoon. Playing their 771st test match, and their 39th with Italy since the first meeting of the nations at Lansdowne Road on 31 December 1988, Andy Farrell’s side […]

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]]> Ireland achieved their first Guinness Six Nations win of the season as they took their 35th test match victory against Italy at the Aviva Stadium on Saturday afternoon.

Playing their 771st test match, and their 39th with Italy since the first meeting of the nations at Lansdowne Road on 31 December 1988, Andy Farrell’s side just held on for the home win.

On an historic day for rugby, Scottish referee Hollie Davidson became the first woman to referee a men’s Six Nations match.

In a rather disappointing first half from an Irish viewpoint, the hosts found themselves behind after 40 minutes.

An early Irish opportunity was spurned as Dan Sheehan attempted to leap over the Italian defence from a standing start. The Italians stood up, as though they expected the move, and blew the Irish hooker back into the ground.

Lynagh sent to sin bin

Italian winger Louis Lynagh, son of Australian rugby legend Michael, was yellow carded for what referee Hollie Davidson adjudged to be a deliberate knock on. The Scottish official consulted the TMO, and on viewing the screen, immediately made the decision to sin bin the Italian number 14.

A number of unforced errors from Ireland saw the home side lose possession in the opening quarter – much to the frustration of fans in the stands.

On the positive side, dangerous and effective runs from James Lowe on one wing and Robert Baloucoune on the opposite helped Ireland make field progress.

Osborne Try

It took 17 minutes of the game before either of the try-scoring lines was breached. Ireland, with the advantage of a man, made the most of their numerical superiority, with fullback Jamie Osborne given the easy task of touching down, as the Italian defensive line was stretched.

Sam Prendergast missed the conversion attempt which followed. Though positioned just left of the posts, the kicker miscued and saw his effort drift harmlessly left of the posts.

Garbisi penalty

The Italians soon reduced the deficit as Paolo Garbisi slotted over a penalty attempt. By that stage the visitors must have been satisfied to be only two points behind the Irish, despite the loss of a man for ten minutes.

Yellow card for Craig Casey

On 32 minutes Craig Casey was yellow carded for foul play. With the Munster player remaining upright in the tackle, he was deemed guilty of dangerous play and Ireland were reduced to 14 men.

Italy made the home side immediately pay for their yellow card. Winning a lineout, the Azzurri drove Ireland back over their own defensive line, and hooker Giacomo Nicotera of Stade Francais dived over the line for a try.

Paolo Garbisi maintained his 100% kicking record on the day, as he successfully slotted over his second kick of the afternoon.

Half-time: Ireland 5 Italy 10

Ireland began the second half at pace. Tadhg Furlong replaced Tom Clarkson in green. Soon Andy Farrell made more changes as the fresh players immediately had an effect across the field.

Conan’s early second-half try

With the the Irish winning the lineout, Ireland drove for the Italian line. Powerhouses  Caelan Doris and Jack Conan added strength from the back of the maul, as the Number 8 touched down for the opening score of the second period

Unfortunately for Ireland, Sam Prendergast again missed the kick at the posts – his second miss of the game to that stage.

Baloucoune try on Six Nations debut

Rob Baloucoune, later named Man of the Match, put the hosts back into the lead as the game approached the final quarter. The Ulster winger, with options to pass, showed great self-confidence on his Six Nations debut, as he ran and then stretched out for the line.

With Jack Crowley now playing at 10, the Munster man kicked the conversion attempt which followed, and Andy Farrell’s men moved into a 17-10 lead.

Crowley soon made it a two-score game as he dissected the posts with his first penalty attempt of the game. In a match of swinging fortunes, Italy were next to score, as Garbisi kicked his second penalty of the fixture.

In an anxious final few minutes of the game, Italy were camped on the Irish line until a relieving interception from James Lowe reduced the pressure on the Irish defence.

Lowe’s pace of old was evident as he raced down the field, giving Ireland one last chance of achieving a bonus-point try, with the clock well past 80 minutes.

Jack Crowley, aiming for the touchline, misjudged his kick which went too far, and brought a sudden end to the game, giving Ireland their first Guinness Six Nations win of the 2026 season.

Final score: Ireland 20  Italy 13

Ireland Team

15. Jamie Osborne, 14. Robert Baloucoune, 13. Garry Ringrose, 12. Stuart McCloskey, 11. James Lowe, 10. Sam Prendergast, 9. Craig Casey.

    1. Jeremy Loughman, 2. Dan Sheehan, 3. Thomas Clarkson, 4. Joe McCarthy, 5. James Ryan, 6. Cormac Izuchukwu, 7. Caelan Doris (captain), 8. Jack Conan.
Ireland Replacements:

16. Ronan Kelleher, 17. Tom O’Toole, 18. Tadhg Furlong, 19. Edwin Edogbo, 20. Tadhg Beirne, 21. Nick Timoney, 22. Jamison Gibson-Park, 23. Jack Crowley.

Italy Team

15. Lorenzo Pani, 14. Louis Lynagh, 13. Leonardo Marin, 12. Tommaso Menoncello, 11. Monty Ioane, 10. Paolo Garbisi, 9. Alessandro Fusco.

1. Danilo Fischetti, 2. Giacomo Nicotera, 3. Simone Ferrari, 4. Niccolo Cannone, 5. Andrea Zambonin, 6. Michele Lamaro (captain), 7. Manuel Zuliani, 8. Lorenzo Cannone.

Italy Replacements

16. Tommaso di Bartolomeo, 17. Mirco Spagnolo, 18. Muhamed Hasa, 19. Federico Ruzza, 20. Riccardo Favretto, 21. David Odiase, 22. Alessandro ‌Garbisi, 23. Paolo Odogwu.

Referee: Hollie Davidson (SRU)

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]]> https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/rugby/ireland-beat-italy-20-13-in-guinness-six-nations/feed 0 35270 Ireland U20s hold out for 30-27 Cork victory https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/rugby/ireland-u20s-hold-out-for-30-27-cork-victory https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/rugby/ireland-u20s-hold-out-for-30-27-cork-victory#respond Fri, 13 Feb 2026 21:34:27 +0000 https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/?p=35267 Ireland U20 held off the gritty Italians 30-27 in a tight high-scoring 6 Nations game at Virgin Media Park in Cork on Friday night. Tries a plenty in both halves – as both teams claimed bonus-point tries – a game that was in the balance for most of the night, saw the hosts edge home […]

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]]> Ireland U20 held off the gritty Italians 30-27 in a tight high-scoring 6 Nations game at Virgin Media Park in Cork on Friday night.

Tries a plenty in both halves – as both teams claimed bonus-point tries – a game that was in the balance for most of the night, saw the hosts edge home by three points in the end.

Ireland score first

Ireland took an early lead with a relatively easy penalty kick for Garryowen’s Tom Wood. The Munster player comfortably slotted over from directly in front of the post for 3-0.

Barrett scores Ireland’s opening try

Winger Derry Moloney opened the Italian defence as he burst through the visitor’s side. Beginning in his own half, the Leinster speedster was supported by Noah Byrne and then by Christopher Barrett.

With Moloney offloading to Byrne, Barrett then received possession of the ball, and had the task of touching down for the game’s opening try. A second successful kick of the night from Tom Wood – this time, a conversion – pushed Ireland out to a 13-0 advantage with just over 13 minutes played on the clock.

Ireland defence breached

Despite some moments of both poor passing and substandard handling, the Italians were next on the score sheet. Winger Luca Rossa was on the receiving end of an Azzurri move as the Irish defence was breached for the first time tonight. Francesco Braga added the extras for the visitors, leaving Ireland with a 10-7 lead approaching the end of the first quarter of play.

Winger Ryan gets on score sheet

The hosts laid a charge to the Italian line following a powerful break from centre Rob Carney. With Ireland pummelling the defensive line, winger Daniel Ryan eventually touched down in the furthest corner from the Main Stand.

With a more difficult conversion attempt – right on the side line – Wood was unsuccessful this time, meaning Ireland had a 15-7 lead.

Converted try and penalty give Italians half-time advantage

Italy struck back immediately with a pushover try that saw hooker Valerio Pelli crash over for a five-pointer. A favourable position gave Braga a relatively easy effort – which he converted, as the Irish lead was reduced to a single point.

With the half-time whistle close, Italy won a penalty which Braga kicked to give the Italian side an unexpected 17-15 lead at the interval.

Half-time: Ireland U20 15  Italy U20 17

The home side claimed the first score of the second half. Excellent teamwork and understanding between centre Rob Carney and Derry Moloney saw the winger score.

With Carney in possession as he made rapid progress from his own half of the field to the opposition’s, the Cashel RFC man kept the Italian defence guessing as to whether he would go for the line himself or pass out to Moloney. Ultimately he did neither, as a nicely placed grubber kick was successfully chased by Moloney who scored in the corner to the delight of the home fans.

Tom Wood was unsuccessful with his effort – his second missed kicked of the evening.

Pelli’s second try

With the Italians enjoying a period of domination on the field, Valerio Pelli claimed his second try of the night. As Italy made numerous efforts to cross the try-scoring line, the brawn and strength of the Mogliano Veneto Rugby player was required to complete the task. Kicker Braga missed at the posts for the first time, as the Italians held a slender 22-20 advantage.

Bonus-point try for Josh Neil

Ireland soon fought back as they noticeably upped the tempo. With the Azzurri defence penalised near their own line, Ireland reacted quickly and three quick motions saw Josh Neil of Leinster in for the bonus-point try.

Wood kicked – from directly in front of the posts – for a 27-22 lead, but the Munster number 10 soon extended this advantage, as a successful penalty kick – which saw Italian Davide Sette sin-binned – gave Ireland a little breathing space on the score board, 30-22, with the game inside the final quarter.


Replacement Jacopo de Rossi gave the Italians hope of taking the victory in this game when his teammates’ powerful maul allowed him touch down for a try, his side’s bonus-point five-pointer. Braga, who had been so successful with his kicking in the opening period, missed his second of this half, as Ireland faced into the final 10 minutes with a slender three-point advantage, an advantage they would ultimately maintain.

Final score: Ireland U20 30  Italy U20 27

Ireland U20 Team

15. Noah Byrne (Dublin University FC/Leinster), 14. Derry Moloney (Blackrock College RFC/Leinster), 13. Rob Carney (Cashel RFC/Munster), 12. James O’Leary (UCC/Munster), 11. Daniel Ryan (Galway Corinthians RFC/Connacht), 10. Tom Wood (Garryowen FC/ Munster), 9. Christopher Barrett (UCC RFC/Munster).

1. Max Doyle (UCD RFC/Leinster), 2. Lee Fitzpatrick (Blackrock College RFC/Leinster), 3. Sami Bishti (UCD RFC/Leinster)(captain), 4. Dylan McNeice (UCD RFC/Leinster), 5. Donnacha McGuire (UCD RFC/Leinster), 6. Joe Finn (Garryowen FC/Munster), 7. Josh Neill (Old Wesley RFC/Leinster), 8. Diarmaid O’Connell (Galway Corinthians RFC/Connacht).

Replacements:

16. Rían Handley (Old Wesley RFC/Leinster), 17. Christian Foley (Young Munster RFC/ Munster), 18. Blake McClean (Instonians RFC/Ulster), 19. Ben Blaney (Terenure College RFC/Leinster), 20. Billy Hayes (Garryowen FC/Munster), 21. James O’Dwyer (Old Belvedere RFC/Leinster), 22. Charlie O’Shea (UCC RFC/Munster), 23. Johnny O’Sullivan (Dublin University FC/Leinster).

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