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Ireland’s Olympic Hockey Dreams Hang in the Balance after Semifinal Heartbreak

Ireland’s Olympic Hockey Dreams Hang in the Balance after Semifinal Heartbreak

The first of the two Olympic qualification semi-finals in Women’s Hockey took place in Valencia this morning. Ireland (world ranked #13) finished second in Pool A and ended up playing Spain (world ranked #8) in the game.
Spain are very familiar opponents. Ireland regularly go to play Spain in warm weather training matches in January most years. And even though they were ranked 5 places higher at the time the match began, historically games between the two sides have been relatively close affairs.

Patricia Alvarez had the first shot in anger of the game for Spain which was blocked by Sarah Hawkshaw but Ireland went straight up the other end and won a long corner. And the was pretty much the pattern of a first quarter which was fairly even. The second quarter saw Spain start well and Blanca Perez had the first real chance after the restart but her cross cum shot whizzed across the face of the goal eluding everyone including her teammates. Ireland went on to dominate the second quarter in possession terms having several circle entries, Katie Mullan forcing a couple of saves out of keeper Clara Perez. One effort by Sarah Hawkshaw in the 23rd minute ended up bouncing off one of the umpires but play continued uninterrupted.

So, both sides went in at half time as they had begun Spain 0 Ireland 0. No stoppages, no injuries, no cards and only one penalty corner key stats from the first half. Spain started quarter three strongly. But there were no clear-cut goal scoring chances for either side until the final minute. At the end of the third quarter though it remained Spain 0 Ireland 0.

It was a landmark for Hannah McLoughlin who gained her 50th cap in this game. But the rest of the game had no clear-cut chances and it ended scoreless. There is no extra time in tournaments like these so both sides went straight to a penalty shootout.
First up for Spain was Laia Vidosa who missed 0-0. First up for Ireland was Róisín Upton who also missed still 0-0. Second up for Spain was Lucia Jiminez who put Spain 1-0 up. Next up for Ireland was Sarah Hawkshaw whose effort was saved by Clara Perez still 1-0 Spain. Third up for Spain was Julia Strapatto who put Spain 2-0 up. Next up for Ireland was Hannah Mc Loughlin whose effort was saved by Clara Perez still 2-0 Spain. Fourth up for Spain was captain for the Day Maria Lopez and she added another goal. Spain win 3-0.

Spain are in the Olympic games in Paris. Ireland will have to settle for the 3rd/4th place play off against the losers of the second semi-final between Belgium and Great Britain.

After the match we spoke to Head Coach Sean Dancer:

“We are really happy with how we played today. When a game goes to a shootout, it’s always a difficult way to lose a game.”
“Belgium have to take on Great Britain to decide who plays in the final and who we will play against on Saturday. We just need to focus on ourselves as we prepare for Saturday.”
“We are proud of how we defended. But we also dominated possession today and in attack. We created a lot of chances today, we just need to start putting more of them away.”

IRELAND: Ayeisha McFerren, Róisín Upton, Niamh Carey, Sarah Hawkshaw, Katie Mullan (C), Hannah McLoughlin, Naomi Carroll, Ellen Curran, Charlotte Beggs, Katie McKee ,Beth Harper
SUBS USED: Sarah McAuley (4 mins), Michelle Carey (6 mins ), Sarah Torrans (7 mins ), Elena Neill (4 mins ), Chloe Watkins (5 mins ), Deirdre Duke (7 mins), Liz Murphy (GK)

SPAIN: CLara Perez (GK), Lucia Jiminez, Maria Lopez (C), Marta Segu, Constanza Amundson, Blanca Perez, Begona Garcia, Xantal Gine, Laia Vidosa, Alejandra Torres-Quevedo, Patricia Alvarez
SUBS USED: Laura Barrios (11 mins), Sara Barrios (4 mins), Belen Iglesias (4 mins), Lola Riera (7 mins), Beatriz Perez (5mins), Julia Strapatto (4 mins), Maria Tello (GK)

Connacht vs Bristol Champions Cup Preview, Team News and TV details

Connacht vs Bristol Champions Cup Preview, Team News and TV details.

Match live on TNT Sports 2 from 7:30pm

Connacht Rugby Team News

Tiernan O’Halloran’s Return Boosts Connacht

Connacht Rugby receives a significant boost as full-back Tiernan O’Halloran returns after recovering from a foot injury sustained in early December. His presence is expected to add flair and stability to the backline.

Tactical Shifts by Head Coach Pete Wilkins

Head coach Pete Wilkins implements a substantial reshuffle, making eight changes from the Lyon game. Notable adjustments include the new center partnership of Bundee Aki and David Hawkshaw, providing a fresh dynamic to the team’s attacking strategy.

Commenting ahead of the game, head coach Pete Wilkins says:

“For a lot of reasons tomorrow should be a great occasion. Friday night Champions Cup games at The Sportsground are always special, and there’ll a few old faces making the visit as well. Both teams still have a lot to play for so we can’t wait for it.

I’m delighted that it’s set to be another sell-out as well, because like we saw against Munster the fans can make a huge difference during both the highs and lows of the 80 minutes. Hopefully we can send them home happy again by the end of the night.”

Hanrahan Back at Out-Half, Blade to Captain

JJ Hanrahan returns to the out-half position, bringing experience and playmaking skills. Caolin Blade takes the captain’s armband at scrum-half, leading the team from a crucial position on the field.

Pack Reinforcements with Buckley and Bealham

In the forward pack, Connacht sees the return of props Denis Buckley and Finlay Bealham, providing added strength to the scrum. Tadgh McElroy retains his place at hooker, contributing to the team’s set-piece solidity.

Murray and Joyce Form New Second-Row Pairing

Niall Murray steps in to partner former Bristol player Joe Joyce in the second row, forming a new locking combination. The cohesion between these two players will be pivotal in both set pieces and open play.

Hurley-Langton’s Inclusion Adds Flank Depth

Shamus Hurley-Langton joins the back row at openside flanker, adding depth and versatility to the loose forward trio alongside Cian Prendergast and number 8 Jarrad Butler. Their collective efforts will be crucial in securing possession and disrupting Bristol’s game plan.

Bristol Bears Team News

Lam’s Tactical Adjustments

Bristol director of rugby Pat Lam makes five changes following the previous weekend’s defeat to the Bulls. These adjustments aim to address weaknesses and enhance the team’s overall performance against Connacht.

Harding’s Return and Front Row Rejig

Club captain Fitz Harding returns from a foot injury, bolstering the back row. The front row sees the return of Jake Woolmore and Kyle Sinckler, the latter back from an abductor injury. This reshaped forward unit aims to dominate set-piece battles.

Randall’s Milestone Appearance

Harry Randall starts at scrum half, marking his 10th Champions Cup appearance for the club. His experience and leadership from the pivotal scrum-half position will be crucial, especially with the milestone achievement he reaches in this match.

Back Line Adjustments

In the backline, Virimi Vakatawa and Kalaveti Ravouvou join the starting XV, adding pace and flair. Benhard Janse van Rensburg shifts to inside centre, creating a formidable midfield combination that Connacht’s defense must contend with.

Lineups

Connacht Starting XV

– Full Back: Tiernan O’Halloran
– Wingers: Shayne Bolton, Andrew Smith
– Centers: Bundee Aki, David Hawkshaw
– Out-Half: JJ Hanrahan
– Scrum-Half: Caolin Blade (Captain)
– Props: Denis Buckley, Finlay Bealham
– Hooker: Tadgh McElroy
– Second Row: Niall Murray, Joe Joyce
– Back Row: Cian Prendergast, Shamus Hurley-Langton, Jarrad Butler

Bristol Bears Starting XV

– Full Back: Max Malins
– Wingers: Kalaveti Ravouvou, Gabriel Ibitoye
– Centers: Virimi Vakatawa, Benhard Janse van Rensburg
– Out-Half: AJ MacGinty
– Scrum-Half: Harry Randall
– Props: Jake Woolmore, Kyle Sinckler
– Locks: Josh Caulfield, Joe Batley
– Back Row: Steven Luatua, Fitz Harding (Captain), Magnus Bradbury

Replacements and Unavailable Players

Both teams feature strong replacement benches, showcasing depth and options for impact substitutions. Connacht will be without Mack Hansen, Paul Boyle, and Diarmuid Kilgannon, while Bristol Bears list a few notable names on their unavailable roster.

In summary, this Connacht vs Bristol encounter promises to be a thrilling Champions Cup clash, with key players returning and strategic adjustments made by both teams. The battle in the forward pack, the strategic play of the half-backs, and the flair in the backline will be key focal points in what is sure to be an intense and closely contested match.

Joe Schmidt Expected to Take Over as Australian Rugby Head Coach

Former Ireland Coach and All Blacks Assistant Joe Schmidt is in line to succeed Eddie Jones as the Wallabies head coach, with Rugby Australia set to make an official announcement in the coming days.

Expressions of interest for the Wallabies head coach position closed on Friday, and sources suggest that only the final paperwork is pending before Schmidt’s appointment.

Schmidt’s Impressive Coaching Career:

Joe Schmidt, aged 58, previously coached Ireland from 2013 to 2019, playing a crucial role in elevating the national team to the world No.1 ranking for the first time. Under Schmidt, Ireland secured three Six Nations titles and achieved historic victories, including defeating the All Blacks twice, notably breaking a 111-year drought in 2016.

Recent Involvement with All Blacks:

Schmidt, who served as an assistant coach with the All Blacks at the 2023 World Cup in France, witnessed New Zealand finishing as runners-up to South Africa. His experience adds a valuable dimension to his potential role with the Wallabies.

Eddie Jones’ Resignation and Schmidt’s Prospective Role:

Eddie Jones, initially signing a five-year deal in 2023, resigned in October following a challenging period for the Wallabies. With only two wins in nine tests and missing the knockout stages of the World Cup, the door opened for a new coaching era. The recent appointments of Peter Horne as the director of high performance and David Nucifora in an advisory capacity indicated a likely collaboration with Schmidt.

Other Contenders:

While former Wallabies coach Michael Cheika and Leicester coach Dan McKellar were initially linked to the job, it appears that Joe Schmidt is the front-runner for the prestigious position. The official announcement from Rugby Australia is eagerly anticipated.

Sigerson Cup Results : DCU and UCC Dominate

Exciting Showdowns and Stellar Performances in Electric Ireland Sigerson and Fitzgibbon Cups Round 2

Electric Ireland Sigerson Cup

Round 2A

TU Dublin 2-11 St Mary’s 2-7

Round 2B

DCU Dóchas Éireann 1-14 SETU Carlow 2-8

UCC 9-21 ATU Galway 3-6

University of Galway 0-14 ATU Sligo 0-6

MTU Cork 3-20 ATU Donegal 1-14 AET

Sigerson Cup Round 2: DCU Dóchas Éireann and UCC Dominate

In a thrilling Round 2A clash, TU Dublin secured a quarter-final spot by overcoming St Mary’s with a scoreline of 2-11 to 2-7. Meanwhile, in Round 2B, DCU Dóchas Éireann faced SETU Carlow in a crucial match with relegation implications. Conor Corbett’s decisive goal led DCU Dóchas Éireann to a hard-fought 1-14 to 2-8 victory, showcasing stellar performances by Mathew Costello and Shane Walsh.

University of Galway and MTU Cork Advance in Style

University of Galway faced resistance from ATU Sligo but emerged victorious with a commanding 0-14 to 0-6 win. UCC, on the other hand, dominated ATI Galway with an emphatic 9-21 to 3-6 triumph. Notable contributors to UCC’s success included Diarmuid Phelan, Conor Daly, and Seánie O’Connor, who collectively netted multiple goals.

MTU Cork faced a tough challenge against ATU Donegal, securing a hard-fought 3-20 to 1-14 victory after extra time. David Buckley’s outstanding performance, finishing with a 1-12 haul, played a crucial role in MTU Cork’s success.

TU Dublin Holds Strong, UL Shines in Fitzgibbon Cup Opener

TU Dublin secured a quarter-final berth in Sigerson Cup Round 2A, overcoming St Mary’s with a scoreline of 2-11 to 2-7. Despite late goals from St Mary’s Seán Quigley and James McCormack, TU Dublin held on for the win.

In the Electric Ireland Fitzgibbon Cup, holders UL started their campaign on a high note with a convincing 3-25 to 0-14 victory over ATU Galway. Mark Rodgers, Adam English, and Ian Byrne showcased their goal-scoring prowess, setting the stage for a promising Fitzgibbon Cup campaign.

In these electrifying encounters, the teams displayed exceptional skills and determination, promising more excitement as the cups progress.

Ireland Squad Announcement for Guinness Men’s Six Nations 2024

Ireland Squad Announcement for Guinness Men’s Six Nations 2024

Peter O’Mahony Named Captain for the Champions hip

Head Coach Andy Farrell has unveiled the 34-player Ireland squad for the upcoming Guinness Men’s Six Nations, appointing Peter O’Mahony as the team captain for the 2024 Championship.

Preparation Kick-off in Dublin

The Ireland squad will kickstart their preparations at the IRFU High Performance Centre in Dublin on Monday, gearing up for the first Championship match against France at Stade Velodrome in Marseille on Friday, 2 February (Kick-off 9pm local time/8pm Irish time).

O’Mahony Takes the Helm

Peter O’Mahony, with 10 previous captaincies, assumes the leadership role for the Championship, succeeding Jonathan Sexton, who retired after the last year’s Rugby World Cup.

New Additions to the Squad

Farrell introduces three additional players – Oli Jager, Thomas Ahern, and Sam Prendergast – joining the Ireland squad for a pre-tournament training camp in Quinta do Lago, Portugal.

Championship Fixture Highlights

After the opening clash against France, Ireland faces back-to-back matches at Aviva Stadium against Italy on Sunday, 11 February, and Wales on Saturday, 24 February. The team then travels to Twickenham to confront England on Saturday, 10 March, before concluding the Championship against Scotland at Aviva Stadium on Saturday, 16 March.

Coach Farrell’s Optimism

Commenting on the squad, Coach Farrell expresses optimism: “The forthcoming Men’s Guinness Six Nations presents an opportunity for us to grow and develop… The squad is in good shape.”

Captain O’Mahony’s Pride and Expectations

Newly appointed captain Peter O’Mahony shares his pride: “To be now asked to captain Ireland ahead of the Six Nations is without doubt one of the proudest moments of my life.”

Sold-out Home Matches

All three of Ireland’s home matches at Aviva Stadium are sold out, with RTÉ and Virgin Media providing free-to-air coverage in the Republic of Ireland and BBC and ITV broadcasting in the United Kingdom.

Ireland Squad – Guinness Six Nations 2024:

Forwards (19):

Ryan Baird (Leinster/Dublin University)(15)
Finlay Bealham (Connacht/Buccaneers)(36)
Tadhg Beirne (Munster/Lansdowne)(46)
Jack Conan (Leinster/Old Belvedere)(41)
Caelan Doris (Leinster/St Mary’s College)(36)
Tadhg Furlong (Leinster/Clontarf)(72)
Cian Healy (Leinster/Clontarf)(125)
Iain Henderson (Ulster/Academy)(79)
Ronan Kelleher (Leinster/Lansdowne)(26)
Jeremy Loughman (Munster/Garryowen)(4)
Joe McCarthy (Leinster/Dublin University)(5)
Peter O’Mahony (Munster/Cork Constitution)(101) CAPTAIN
Tom O’Toole (Ulster/Ballynahinch)(12)
Andrew Porter (Leinster/UCD)(59)
James Ryan (Leinster/UCD)(59)
Dan Sheehan (Leinster/Lansdowne)(21)
Tom Stewart (Ulster/Ballynahinch)(2)
Nick Timoney (Ulster/Banbridge)(3)
Josh van der Flier (Leinster/UCD)(57)

Backs (15):

Bundee Aki (Connacht/Galwegians)(52)
Harry Byrne (Leinster/UCD)(2)
Craig Casey (Munster/Shannon)(13)
Jack Crowley (Munster/Cork Constitution)(9)
Ciaran Frawley (Leinster/UCD)(1)
Jamison Gibson-Park (Leinster)(30)
Robbie Henshaw (Leinster/Buccaneers)
Hugo Keenan (Leinster/UCD)(36)
Jordan Larmour (Leinster/St Mary’s College)(30)
James Lowe (Leinster)(26)
Stuart McCloskey (Ulster/Bangor)(15)
Conor Murray (Munster/Garryowen)(112)
Calvin Nash (Munster/Young Munster)(1)
Garry Ringrose (Leinster/UCD)(57)
Jacob Stockdale (Ulster/Lurgan)(37)

Training Panellists:

Oli Jager (Munster)*
Thomas Ahern (Shannon/Munster)*
Sam Prendergast (Lansdowne/Leinster)*

* denotes uncapped player

Analysing Rugby Injury Trends: A Comprehensive Look at Player Safety

Analysing Rugby Injury Trends: A Comprehensive Look at Player Safety

Rugby, a physically demanding sport, sees its players navigating a field of challenges, including the risk of injuries. In this article, we delve into recent statistics to shed light on the frequency and nature of injuries in rugby, differentiating between male and female players and examining trends across various playing levels.

Click here for in-depth look

Overall Injury Frequency: A Comparative Overview

Male players, experiencing a slight increase, now face an average of 17 matches before sustaining an injury, down from the previous 14 matches. Female players, however, maintain the status quo at 25 matches per injury. The injury incidence rate has seen a positive shift for both genders, with a decrease from 55 to 43.3 injuries per 1,000 player hours for men and a marginal increase from 29.8 to 30.3 injuries per 1,000 player hours for women.

School Senior Cup Players: A Closer Look

School Senior Cup players show a noteworthy increase in the number of matches required to incur an injury, rising from 16 to 22 matches. However, the injury incidence rate has decreased from 42.4 to 38.5 injuries per 1,000 player hours compared to the 2019/20 season.

Senior Club Injury Breakdown: Tackles and More

In senior club matches, the tackle remains a significant contributor to injuries. Analyzing injury events, 64% of men’s and 71% of women’s match injuries result from tackles. Further breakdown reveals that 45% of men’s tackle-related injuries are sustained by the ball carrier, while 55% are sustained by the tackler. For women, 66% of tackle-related injuries come from the ball carrier, and 34% from the tackler.

Male Club Match Injury Occurrence: Top Injuries

Examining injury occurrences in male club matches, concussion rates have increased from 7.6 to 9.1 injuries per 1,000 player hours. Conversely, ankle ligament sprains have decreased from 5.3 to 5, and hamstring strains have seen a slight increase from 4.6 to 4.7 injuries per 1,000 player hours.

Female Club Match Injury Occurrence: Shifting Patterns

In female club matches, ankle sprains have seen a significant rise from 2.9 to 4.3 injuries per 1,000 player hours. Knee sprains have also increased from 1.4 to 3.7 injuries per 1,000 player hours, while concussions have shown a decline from 3.6 to 2.5 injuries per 1,000 player hours.

School Senior Cup Match Injury Occurrence: Notable Reductions

For School Senior Cup matches, concussion rates have decreased from 9.6 to 7.5 injuries per 1,000 player hours. Ankle sprains also exhibit a decline from 4.1 to 3.6, and shoulder dislocation/subluxation has seen a substantial reduction from 7.2 to 2.7 injuries per 1,000 player hours compared to the 2018/19 season.

Dr. Rod McLoughlin, the IRFU’s Medical Director, said: “The injury data provided by the IRIS Project informed IRFU discussions around tackle behaviours, and was a vital component in the IRFU decision to address the tackle behaviour in the domestic game and subsequently to opt into the World Rugby Global Tackle Height Trial. As we look towards the upcoming 2023/24 season, we will be able to accurately compare injury rates before and after the law change. These data allow us to better understand the impact of lowering the tackle height and improving tackle technique on injury rates, injury severity and injury mechanisms.”  
“We are encouraged to see the ongoing support from our clubs and schools working with the IRIS Project. Thank you to each and every club, school, data collector, volunteer, player and researcher that is part of this project. Your continued support is a fundamental component of how we protect player health and wellbeing.”
Prof. Ian Kenny, IRIS co-principal investigator at the University of Limerick, added: “The Irish Rugby Injury Surveillance (IRIS) project involves research stemming from ongoing sports performance and injury prevention work by University of Limerick academics across a range of sports, as well as our specific expertise in Rugby Union. The IRIS group are working closely with the IRFU to use these data to answer pertinent questions for the game for example tackle height effect, ENGAGE injury reduction programme effects, and women’s game specific issues.”  

 

Dr. Tom Comyns, IRIS co-princial investigator at the University of Limerick, said: “The longitudinal nature of the IRIS project has resulted in the project impacting on the practices within the amateur game in Ireland. The data collected has helped inform practice which aims to enhance player welfare. The support from the IRFU together with the clubs, schools, and  players has been instrumental for the the IRIS project and the research team thank all for their continued support and involvement”.

England’s 2024 Six Nations Squad Revealed: Notable Omissions and Rising Stars

England’s 2024 Six Nations Squad Revealed: Notable Omissions and Rising Stars

High-Profile Exclusions: Sinckler and Vunipola

In a surprising turn of events, England’s 2024 Six Nations squad witnesses the absence of heavyweights Kyle Sinckler and Billy Vunipola. Speculations about their potential Premiership exits add intrigue to Coach Steve Borthwick’s strategic choices.

Dynamic Tighthead Options

Borthwick’s response to the missing duo includes seasoned players Dan Cole, Will Stuart, and Joe Heyes stepping up as tighthead options. The uncapped trio of Ben Earl, Alex Dombrandt, and Chandler Cunningham-South is set to make an impact at No 8, introducing a fresh perspective to England’s forward pack.

New Blood: A Blend of Youth and Experience

A notable feature of the squad is the infusion of seven uncapped players, promising a blend of youth and experience. The inclusion of talents like Cunningham-South, Oscar Beard, Fraser Dingwall, Tom Roebuck, Immanuel Feyi-Waboso, Fin Smith, and Ethan Roots signals a strategic move to build for the future.

Captaincy Revelation: George Takes the Helm

Jamie George as the squad’s captain, a role that adds a layer of leadership to the experienced hooker. The captaincy decision sets the tone for England’s campaign, providing stability amidst the notable exclusions.

Return of the Veteran: Spencer’s Comeback

Bath scrum-half Ben Spencer’s return to the national setup after his 2019 World Cup final appearance adds a compelling narrative. Spencer’s stellar performance in his captaincy role at Bath earns him a well-deserved recall, bringing both experience and form to the squad.

Uncertainties and Disciplinary Hearings

While the exclusion of Alfie Barbeary raises eyebrows, there’s a possibility of his inclusion pending a disciplinary hearing. This adds an element of suspense to the squad dynamics, with Borthwick’s decisions contingent on the outcome.

Front Row Assurance: Marler and Genge Overcome Fitness Concerns

The front row sees the return of Joe Marler and Ellis Genge, overcoming fitness concerns at loosehead. This development provides Borthwick with a sense of relief, ensuring a robust and experienced front row for the upcoming challenges.

Balancing Act: Rehabilitation Group

A rehabilitation group comprising George Martin, Manu Tuilagi, Anthony Watson, Raffi Quirke, and Jack van Poortvliet underscores England’s commitment to nurturing and reintegrating key players. Striking a balance between experience and emerging talents, this group adds depth to the squad.

As England prepares for the 2024 Six Nations, Borthwick’s strategic decisions and the uncapped players’ potential impact promise an intriguing journey for fans and a glimpse into the future of English rugby.

ENGLAND SENIOR MEN’S 36-PLAYER TRAINING SQUAD

FORWARDS

Ollie Chessum (Leicester Tigers, 18 caps)
Dan Cole (Leicester Tigers, 107 caps)
Alex Coles (Northampton Saints, 3 caps)
Luke Cowan-Dickie (Sale Sharks, 41 caps)
Chandler Cunningham-South (Harlequins, uncapped)
Ben Curry (Sale Sharks, 5 caps)
Theo Dan (Saracens, 7 caps)
Alex Dombrandt (Harlequins, 15 caps)
Ben Earl (Saracens, 25 caps)
Ellis Genge (Bristol Bears, 58 caps)
Jamie George (Saracens, 85 caps) – captain
Joe Heyes (Leicester Tigers, 7 caps)
Nick Isiekwe (Saracens, 11 caps)
Maro Itoje (Saracens, 76 caps)
Joe Marler (Harlequins, 88 caps)
Beno Obano (Bath Rugby, 3 caps)
Tom Pearson (Northampton Saints, 1 cap)
Ethan Roots (Exeter Chiefs, uncapped)
Will Stuart (Bath Rugby, 33 caps)
Sam Underhill (Bath Rugby, 30 caps)

BACKS

Oscar Beard (Harlequins, uncapped)
Danny Care (Harlequins, 96 caps)
Elliot Daly (Saracens, 64 caps)
Fraser Dingwall (Northampton Saints, uncapped)
Immanuel Feyi-Waboso (Exeter Chiefs, uncapped)
George Ford (Sale Sharks, 91 caps)
Tommy Freeman (Northampton Saints, 3 caps)
George Furbank (Northampton Saints, 6 caps)
Ollie Lawrence (Bath Rugby, 21 caps)
Alex Mitchell (Northampton Saints, 11 caps)
Tom Roebuck (Sale Sharks, uncapped)
Henry Slade (Exeter Chiefs, 57 caps)
Fin Smith (Northampton Saints, uncapped)
Marcus Smith (Harlequins, 30 caps)
Ben Spencer (Bath Rugby, 4 caps)
Freddie Steward (Leicester Tigers, 31 caps)

Ireland Under-20 Men’s Team Gears Up for 2024 U-20 Six Nations Championship

Ireland Under-20 Men’s Team Gears Up for 2024 U-20 Six Nations Championship

The anticipation builds as Ireland’s Under-20 Men’s head coach, Richie Murphy, prepares his talented squad for the upcoming 2024 U-20 Six Nations Championship, set to kick off in just over two weeks.

Last Season’s Triumphs:

Recapping the stellar performance of the Ireland Under-20s in the previous season, securing consecutive Grand Slam titles and reaching the World Rugby U-20 Championship final highlighted their success. The only setback came against a formidable France team.

Returning Players and Leadership:

The 2022/23 graduates, led by newly-appointed captain Evan O’Connell, along with familiar faces like Joe Hopes, Danny Sheahan, Brian Gleeson, and Hugh Gavin, set a high standard. Murphy emphasizes their focus on weekly performance, steering away from the pressure of past achievements.

Performance Over Results:

Addressing expectations, Murphy emphasizes the team’s commitment to being performance-based rather than result-oriented. With a nearly new team, their goal is to take each game as it comes, starting with the formidable challenge of facing France in the first match.

Senior Debuts and Squad Depth:

Three members of the 31-player squad have already made senior debuts for their provinces, showcasing the depth of talent in the IRFU Under-20 Men’s program. Murphy acknowledges the tough decisions in finalizing the squad, with plans to potentially add one more player based on All-Ireland League performances.

Captain Evan O’Connell’s Leadership:

As Evan O’Connell steps into the role of captain, he brings not only physical prowess but also leadership qualities showcased during the previous successful campaign. His uncle, Paul, a former captain, adds a familial connection to Ireland’s rugby legacy.

Energia All-Ireland League Experience:

Most of the squad, including O’Connell, has gained valuable experience in the Energia All-Ireland League, providing a crucial stepping stone from school to senior rugby. Murphy emphasizes the importance of AIL in developing both physicality and speed required at the U-20 level.

Coaching Team and New Additions:

Willie Faloon and Aaron Dundon continue their coaching roles, while former Ireland international Ian Keatley steps in as the new backs coach, succeeding Mark Sexton. Keatley’s impact is already evident, bringing experience and valuable insights to the team.

Preparations and Training Camps:

The squad recently trained with Clontarf’s AIL team and will embark on a short training camp in Belfast, including a session with Queen’s University at Kingspan Stadium. The strategic blend of physicality from the AIL and the desired speed prepares the team for the challenges of the upcoming Six Nations.

As the Ireland Under-20 Men’s team readies itself for the U-20 Six Nations Championship, the blend of seasoned players, emerging talents, and experienced coaching staff positions them as formidable contenders. The focus on performance and continuous improvement echoes their commitment to success on the international stage.

Ireland U20s Squad:

Forwards (17):

Alex Usanov (Clontarf FC/Leinster)
Ben Howard (Terenure College RFC/Leinster)
Danny Sheahan (Cork Constitution FC/Munster)
Henry Walker (Queen’s University RFC/Ulster)
Stephen Smyth (Old Wesley RFC/Leinster)
Patreece Bell (Sale Sharks/IQ Rugby)
Jacob Boyd (Queen’s University RFC/Ulster)
Andrew Sparrow (UCD RFC/Leinster)
Joe Hopes (Queen’s University Belfast RFC/Ulster)
Billy Corrigan (Old Wesley RFC/Leinster)
Evan O’Connell (UL Bohemian RFC/Munster)(captain)
Alan Spicer (UCD RFC/Leinster)
Bryn Ward (Ballynahinch RFC/Ulster)
Sean Edogbo (UCC RFC/Munster)
Josh Stevens (Queen’s University RFC/Ulster)
Brian Gleeson (Garryowen FC/Munster)
Luke Murphy (Shannon RFC/Munster)

Backs (14):

Oliver Coffey (Blackrock College RFC/Leinster)
Tadhg Brophy (Naas RFC/Leinster)
Will Wootton (Sale Sharks/IQ Rugby)
Jake O’Riordan (UL Bohemian RFC/Munster)
Jack Murphy (Clontarf FC/Leinster)
Sean Naughton (Galway Corinthians RFC/Connacht)
Hugo McLaughlin (Lansdowne FC/Leinster)
Ethan Graham (Ballynahinch RFC/Ulster)
Hugh Gavin (Galwegians RFC/Connacht)
Rory Ellerby (Queen’s University RFC/Ulster)
Wilhelm de Klerk (UCD RFC/Leinster)
Finn Treacy (Galwegians RFC/Connacht)
Stephen Kiely (Shannon RFC/Munster)
Ben O’Connor (UCC RFC/Munster)

Ireland U20 Fixtures:

  • Saturday, 3 February: France v Ireland, Stade Maurice David, 9.10pm local time/8.10pm Irish time
  • Friday, 9 February: Ireland v Italy, Musgrave Park, 7.15pm
  • Friday, 23 February: Ireland v Wales, Musgrave Park, 7.15pm
  • Friday, 8 March: England v Ireland, Recreation Ground, 7.15pm
  • Friday, 15 March: Ireland v Scotland, Musgrave Park, 7pm

Wales star winger Louis Rees-Zammit to quit rugby

Wales star winger Louis Rees-Zammit to quit rugby for shot at playing in the NFL

In a significant move, Gloucester Rugby has granted immediate release to Louis Rees-Zammit, allowing the 22-year-old winger to pursue his dream in the National Football League (NFL).

**Embracing the NFL International Player Pathway (IPP)**

Louis Rees-Zammit has accepted a coveted invitation to join the NFL International Player Pathway (IPP). This unique opportunity provides elite athletes worldwide with the chance to secure a spot on an NFL roster.

**Grateful Reflections: Gloucester Rugby’s Impact**

Expressing deep gratitude, Rees-Zammit acknowledges Gloucester Rugby’s pivotal role in shaping his career. From his early days at Hartpury College to earning Lions caps, the club has been instrumental in his professional development.

**A Journey Through Professional Development**

Reflecting on his growth as a player, Rees-Zammit highlights the support received from Gloucester Rugby. The journey from Hartpury College to representing Wales and the Lions has been a testament to the club’s influence.

**American Football Aspirations: A New Professional Chapter**

Rees-Zammit shares his vision of playing American football in the US, underscoring the rarity of such opportunities in a career. He believes that now is the right time to explore a new professional chapter.

**CEO’s Perspective: Alex Brown on the Departure**

Alex Brown, Chief Executive Officer of Gloucester Rugby, provides insights into the departure. While expressing sadness at seeing Rees-Zammit leave, Brown acknowledges the magnitude of the NFL opportunity and expresses pride in the club’s role in his development.

**Best Wishes from Gloucester Rugby**

Despite the sadness surrounding the departure, Gloucester Rugby extends its best wishes to Rees-Zammit. The club takes pride in contributing to the development of a player now poised for a new adventure.

**Departure to Florida: Commencement of the IPP Program**

Louis Rees-Zammit is set to leave the UK for Florida this week, marking the beginning of his journey through the NFL International Player Pathway (IPP). This move signifies a pivotal moment as he ventures into a new chapter of his professional career.

Ireland U20 Rugby Squad for the 2024 Six Nations

Head Coach Richie Murphy has announced the 31-man Ireland U20s squad for the 2024 U20 Six Nations, featuring four players from last year’s Grand Slam-winning campaign. Evan O’Connell, the Munster second row, will captain the team in their opening fixture against France on February 3.

O’Connell, along with second row partner Joe Hopes, back row Brian Gleeson, and centre Hugh Gavin, are part of the 2024 Championship squad, having contributed to last year’s success. Ireland begins their Championship in France before two consecutive home matches at Musgrave Park against Italy and Wales on February 9 and February 23, respectively.

The team faces England at The Recreation Ground in Bath on March 8, concluding the Championship against Scotland in Cork on March 15. The squad has prepared through camps at the IRFU High Performance Centre, including Challenge Matches over the Christmas period.

Coaching staff for the 2024 Championship includes Willie Faloon (Defence and Lineout), Aaron Dundon (Scrum and Contact Coach), and former Ireland international Ian Keatley as Backs Coach.

In a statement, Murphy expressed excitement about the young players representing Ireland in the Six Nations, emphasizing their work-rate and commitment. The team looks forward to the challenges ahead, with support anticipated at Musgrave Park in Cork.

PwC, in their nineteenth year sponsoring the Ireland U20 squad, expressed confidence in Ireland’s performance, highlighting the team’s dedication and teamwork. IRFU President Greg Barrett acknowledged the importance of the U20s program in Irish Rugby, appreciating PwC’s longstanding support.

The Ireland U20s squad includes forwards and backs, and tickets for home matches at Musgrave Park are available via Ticketmaster.ie. The team’s fixtures include matches against France, Italy, Wales, England, and Scotland throughout February and March.

Ireland U20s Squad:

Forwards (17):

Alex Usanov (Clontarf FC/Leinster)
Ben Howard (Terenure College RFC/Leinster)
Danny Sheahan (Cork Constitution FC/Munster)
Henry Walker (Queen’s University RFC/Ulster)
Stephen Smyth (Old Wesley RFC/Leinster)
Patreece Bell (Sale Sharks/IQ Rugby)
Jacob Boyd (Queen’s University RFC/Ulster)
Andrew Sparrow (UCD RFC/Leinster)
Joe Hopes (Queen’s University Belfast RFC/Ulster)
Billy Corrigan (Old Wesley RFC/Leinster)
Evan O’Connell (UL Bohemian RFC/Munster) (capt)
Alan Spicer (UCD RFC/Leinster)
Bryn Ward (Ballynahinch RFC/Ulster)
Sean Edogbo (UCC RFC/Munster)
Josh Stevens (Queen’s University RFC/Ulster)
Brian Gleeson (Garryowen FC/Munster)
Luke Murphy (Shannon RFC/Munster)

Backs (14):

Oliver Coffey (Blackrock College RFC/Leinster)
Tadhg Brophy (Naas RFC/Leinster)
Will Wootton (Sale Sharks/IQ Rugby)
Jake O’Riordan (UL Bohemian RFC/Munster)
Jack Murphy (Clontarf FC/Leinster)
Sean Naughton (Galway Corinthians RFC/Connacht)
Hugo McLaughlin (Lansdowne FC/Leinster)
Ethan Graham (Ballynahinch RFC/Ulster)
Hugh Gavin (Galwegians RFC/Connacht)
Rory Ellerby (Queen’s University RFC/Ulster)
Wilhelm de Klerk (UCD RFC/Leinster)
Finn Treacy (Galwegians RFC/Connacht)
Stephen Kiely (Shannon RFC/Munster)
Ben O’Connor (UCC RFC/Munster)

Ireland U20 Fixtures:

  • Saturday, 3 February: France v Ireland, Stade Maurice David, 9.10pm local time/8.10pm Irish time
  • Friday, 9 February: Ireland v Italy, Musgrave Park, 7.15pm
  • Friday, 23 February: Ireland v Wales, Musgrave Park, 7.15pm
  • Friday, 8 March: England v Ireland, Recreation Ground, 7.15pm
  • Friday, 15 March: Ireland v Scotland, Musgrave Park,
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