Ireland Rugby Archives - SportsNewsIreland https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/tag/ireland-rugby 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 Ireland Rugby Archives - SportsNewsIreland https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/tag/ireland-rugby 32 32 229439223 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 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 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 U20s Six Nations Preview – Ireland U20s v France: How to Watch Live on RTÉ https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/rugby/rugby_irish/u20s-six-nations-preview-ireland-u20s-v-france-how-to-watch-live-on-rte https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/rugby/rugby_irish/u20s-six-nations-preview-ireland-u20s-v-france-how-to-watch-live-on-rte#respond Thu, 05 Feb 2026 13:10:58 +0000 https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/?p=35226 Ireland’s Men’s U20s begin their 2026 U20 Six Nations campaign on Saturday night with a demanding opening assignment against France in Perpignan — and fans will be able to watch the match live on free-to-air television. The game takes place at Stade Aime Giral, with kick-off at 8pm Irish time, and will be shown live […]

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]]> Ireland’s Men’s U20s begin their 2026 U20 Six Nations campaign on Saturday night with a demanding opening assignment against France in Perpignan — and fans will be able to watch the match live on free-to-air television.

The game takes place at Stade Aime Giral, with kick-off at 8pm Irish time, and will be shown live on the RTÉ News Channel (Sky 517) as well as streamed on RTÉ Player, ensuring easy access for supporters across Ireland.

Byrne handed starting role in back three

Head coach Andrew Browne has named a youthful but well-balanced matchday squad, captained by tighthead prop Sami Bishti, with one of the standout selections being Noah Byrne at full-back.

Byrne, a former Dublin minor footballer, continues his impressive sporting journey by starting in the Ireland back three alongside Derry Moloney and Daniel Ryan. Comfortable under the high ball and composed in broken play, Byrne’s transition from Gaelic football to elite rugby has marked him out as one of the more intriguing prospects in the squad. His ability to read space and counter-attack could be key against a typically athletic French backline.

In midfield, Johnny O’Sullivan partners James O’Leary, while Christopher Barrett and Tom Wood link up at half-back, tasked with steering Ireland around the pitch in what is expected to be a high-tempo contest.

Strong UCD influence in the pack

Ireland’s pack features a strong Leinster core, with UCD well represented. Bishti captains the side from tighthead prop, packing down alongside Max Doyle and Rian Handley in the front row. Dylan McNeice and Donnacha McGuire form the second row partnership, while the back row of Josh Neill, Billy Hayes and Diarmaid O’Connell offers a blend of physicality and mobility.

Browne has also named a well-rounded bench, with impact options available across both forwards and backs should the game open up in the final quarter.

Ireland U20s:

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

1. Max Doyle (UCD RFC/Leinster)
2. Rian Handley (Old Wesley RFC/Leinster)
3. Sami Bishti (UCD RFC/Leinster)(captain)
4. Dylan McNeice (UCD RFC/Leinster)
5. Donnacha McGuire (UCD RFC/Leinster)
6. Josh Neill (Old Wesley RFC/Leinster)
7. Billy Hayes (Garryowen FC/Munster)
8. Diarmaid O’Connell (Galway Corinthians RFC/Connacht)

Replacements:

16. Duinn Maguire (UCD RFC/Leinster)
17. Christian Foley (Young Munster RFC/Munster)
18. Blake McClean (Instonians RFC/Ulster)
19. Joe Finn (Garryowen FC/Munster)
20. Ben Blaney (Terenure College RFC/Leinster)
21. Fergus Callington (Durham University/IQ Rugby)
22. Charlie O’Shea (UCC RFC/Munster)
23. Ethan Black (Old Wesley RFC/Leinster).

 

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]]> https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/rugby/rugby_irish/u20s-six-nations-preview-ireland-u20s-v-france-how-to-watch-live-on-rte/feed 0 35226 Ireland XV to face England ‘A’ at Thomond Park on Friday https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/rugby/ireland-xv-to-face-england-a-at-thomond-park-on-friday https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/rugby/ireland-xv-to-face-england-a-at-thomond-park-on-friday#respond Thu, 05 Feb 2026 10:12:57 +0000 https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/?p=35220 Head Coach Cullie Tucker has named the Ireland XV Match Day Squad for Friday night’s clash against England ‘A’ at Thomond Park. Leinster’s Max Deegan will captain the side as one of six senior capped Test internationals in the starting team. Shane Daly, James Hume and Ciaran Frawley all add international experience to the backline, while Deegan, Gus […]

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]]>

Head Coach Cullie Tucker has named the Ireland XV Match Day Squad for Friday night’s clash against England ‘A’ at Thomond Park.

Leinster’s Max Deegan will captain the side as one of six senior capped Test internationals in the starting team.

Shane Daly, James Hume and Ciaran Frawley all add international experience to the backline, while Deegan, Gus McCarthy and Fineen Wycherley are named in the pack.

Daly, Zac Ward and Joshua Kenny start in Ireland XV’s back three, with Hume joined by Dan Kelly in midfield. There is an all Leinster half-back pairing as Fintan Gunne starts at scrum-half alongside Frawley at out-half.

In the pack, Billy Bohan, McCarthy and Scott Wilson are in the front row, while Charlie Irvine and Wycherley start in the engine room.

Deegan leads the side from blindside flanker and is joined in the back row by Bryn Ward at openside and Brian Gleeson at number eight.

On the bench, Diarmuid Barron, Sam Crean, Jack Aungier, Harry Sheridan, Paul Boyle and Sean Jansen provide the forward replacements, while backs Matthew Devine and Cathal Forde complete the Match Day Squad.

Friday’s match, which kicks off at 7.15pm, is live on Premier Sports.

Ireland XV (Club/Province/Test caps)

15. Shane Daly (Cork Constitution/Munster)(2)
14. Joshua Kenny (Terenure/Leinster)
13. James Hume (Banbridge/Ulster)(3)
12. Dan Kelly (Munster)
11. Zac Ward (Ballynahinch/Ulster)
10. Ciaran Frawley (UCD/Leinster)(9)
9. Fintan Gunne (Terenure/Leinster)

1. Billy Bohan (Corinthians/Connacht)
2. Gus McCarthy (UCD/Leinster)(7)
3. Scott Wilson (Queen’s University Belfast/Ulster)
4. Charlie Irvine (Queen’s University/Ulster)
5. Fineen Wycherley (Young Munster/Munster)(1)
6. Max Deegan (Lansdowne/Leinster)(4)(captain)
7. Bryn Ward (Ballynahinch/Ulster)
8. Brian Gleeson (Garryowen/Munster)

Replacements:

16. Diarmuid Barron (Garryowen/Munster)
17. Sam Crean (Ulster)
18. Jack Aungier (Clontarf/Connacht)(1)
19. Harry Sheridan (Dublin University/Ulster)
20. Paul Boyle (Buccaneers/Connacht)(1)
21. Matthew Devine (Corinthians/Connacht)
22. Cathal Forde (Corinthians/Connacht)
23. Seán Jansen (Connacht).

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]]> https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/rugby/ireland-xv-to-face-england-a-at-thomond-park-on-friday/feed 0 35220 Ireland and Scotland drawn together for Rugby World Cup 2027 https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/rugby/ireland-and-scotland-drawn-together-for-rugby-world-cup-2027 https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/rugby/ireland-and-scotland-drawn-together-for-rugby-world-cup-2027#respond Wed, 03 Dec 2025 21:09:26 +0000 https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/?p=34991 Ireland and Scotland are paired together for the third Rugby World Cup tournament in a row and fourth time in total following today’s draw. Drawn in Pool D, the Celtic neighbours are drawn alongside Uruguay and Portugal. In World Cup matches, Ireland beat the Scots in both the 2019 and 2023 tournaments, while Scotland claimed […]

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]]> Ireland and Scotland are paired together for the third Rugby World Cup tournament in a row and fourth time in total following today’s draw.

Drawn in Pool D, the Celtic neighbours are drawn alongside Uruguay and Portugal.

In World Cup matches, Ireland beat the Scots in both the 2019 and 2023 tournaments, while Scotland claimed victory at the 1991 edition.

Ireland have never faced Uruguay or Portugal on the Rugby World Cup stage. Andy Farrell’s side did, however, post their record win (106-7) in test rugby against Portugal earlier this year.

The Ireland side will face a South American team in a pool for the first time since Argentina in 2007.

Portugal and Uruguay will meet for the first time at a Rugby World Cup.

Scotland’s only previous meetings with Uruguay and Portugal both came in the debut tournaments for those teams, in 1999 and 2007 respectively.

Portugal’s first-ever Rugby World Cup match was against Scotland, where they suffered a comprehensive 56-10 defeat.

Os Lobos have now been paired with at least two European teams in each of their three Rugby World Cup tournaments.

POOL A (NZL, AUS, CHI, HKG)

Australia and New Zealand are drawn together in a pool for the first time. This will be their first RWC meeting since the 2015 final won 34-17 by New Zealand at Twickenham.

The Wallabies will face a South American team for the fifth time in a pool after Argentina (1991 and 2003) and Uruguay (2015 and 2019).

Two of New Zealand’s titles came after facing a South American team in a pool (Argentina in 1987 and 2015).

Chile will face three new teams on the Rugby World Cup stage. They have a won one, lost one record against Hong Kong China, the only team in their pool that they have faced before.

Hong Kong China will be the 27th national team to play in a Men’s Rugby World Cup. The country’s women were also drawn in a pool with New Zealand for their Rugby World Cup debut in 2017, losing 121-0 in Dublin.

POOL  B (RSA, ITA, GEO, ROU)

South Africa are drawn in Pool B for the third successive tournament and have always been in a pool with at least one European nation. This is the second tournament in a row they will face three European nations after meeting Ireland, Scotland and Romania at RWC 2023.

Italy are drawn in a pool with Georgia for the first time.

Georgia will face South Africa for the first time since their debut tournament in 2003 in Australia, a match they lost 46-19 in Sydney.

Italy will meet the Springboks for the second time, having lost 49-3 in their RWC 2019 encounter in Japan.

It will be a third tournament in a row that Italy face an African opponent, having also met Namibia in 2019 and 2023.

Romania have lost to all three of their pool opponents at a Rugby World Cup (Georgia in 2011, Italy in 2007 and 2015 and South Africa in 1995 and 2023).

POOL C (ARG, FIJ, ESP, CAN)

Argentina and Fiji met in their first-ever Rugby World Cup match in 1987, the Pacific Islanders winning 28-9 in Hamilton. They have not been drawn in a pool together since then.

Los Pumas have never met Canada or Spain on the Rugby World Cup stage and it is 22 years since their last test against Canada, a 62-22 win in Buenos Aires. Argentina beat Spain 62-3 in August 2023.

Canada have faced their other two pool opponents this year, losing 24-23 to Spain in July and 63-10 to Fiji in September.

Fiji and Canada last met at a Rugby World Cup in 2007, the Fijians winning 29-16.

Canada will face a Pacific islands nation for the first time since they beat Tonga 25-20 at at RWC 2011.

Spain and Fiji met last month, the Pacific Islanders running out 41-33 winners in Malaga.

Spain faced a South American team in their first RWC match in 1999, losing 27-15. They will face these three teams for the first time on the Rugby World Cup stage.

POOL E (FRA, JPN, USA, SAM)

France will meet Samoa for the first time in a Rugby World Cup pool match.

Les Bleus have met Japan on two occasions, including when the tournament was last held in Australia in 2003.

France were among USA’s opponents at their last Rugby World Cup in 2019.

Japan and Samoa are drawn together for the fourth tournament in a row, the Brave Blossoms having won the three most recent encounters after a loss in 1999.

USA and Japan met in their first-ever Rugby World Cup match, the Men’s Eagles winning 21-18 at Ballymore in 1987. Two of the three RWC meetings between Japan and USA have come on Australian soil with USA also winning 39-26 in Gosford in 2003.

Samoa, who lost to USA in the RWC 2027 qualification process, will meet the Eagles in a tournament hosted outside of Europe for the first time, having met in 2007 (France) and 2015 (England).

POOL F (ENG, WAL, TGA, ZIM)

England will face Wales for the second time in a RWC pool, having lost 28-25 on home soil in 2015.

Tonga are one of two sides that England have scored a century of points against on the Rugby World Cup stage (101-10 in 1999). England also beat the ‘Ikale Tahi on two other occasions, in 2007 and 2019.

Wales and Tonga last met at a Rugby World Cup in 2003, the Welsh winning 27-20 in Canberra. They also faced off in the inaugural tournament in 1987, Wales winning 29-16.

Zimbabwe have three new Rugby World Cup opponents, taking the number of different teams they will have faced to eight (only Scotland twice). It will be the first time they face a Pacific Islands nation.

Tonga and Zimbabwe’s meeting at RWC 2027 will come 30 years after the ‘Ikale Tahi ran out 42-13 winners in their only previous test in Harare.

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]]> https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/rugby/ireland-and-scotland-drawn-together-for-rugby-world-cup-2027/feed 0 34991 Ireland Team v New Zealand on Saturday https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/rugby/ireland-team-v-new-zealand-on-saturday https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/rugby/ireland-team-v-new-zealand-on-saturday#respond Thu, 30 Oct 2025 14:33:42 +0000 https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/?p=34871 Ireland Rugby Head Coach Andy Farrell has named his match day squad for Saturday’s Gallagher Cup clash against New Zealand at Soldier Field, Chicago. The 8.10pm Irish time kick-off, live on Virgin Media One and TNT Sports, will be the first game in a busy month of international fixtures for the Irish side. Dan Sheehan […]

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]]> Ireland Rugby Head Coach Andy Farrell has named his match day squad for Saturday’s Gallagher Cup clash against New Zealand at Soldier Field, Chicago.

The 8.10pm Irish time kick-off, live on Virgin Media One and TNT Sports, will be the first game in a busy month of international fixtures for the Irish side.

Dan Sheehan will captain Ireland for the second time at Soldier Field, while Leinster prop Paddy McCarthy is in line for his Test debut off the bench.

In the pack, Farrell has chosen Jamie Osborne, Tommy O’Brien and James Lowe in the Ireland back three.

Stuart McCloskey will partner Garry Ringrose in midfield, while Munster’s Jack Crowley will start at out-half, partnering Jamison Gibson-Park in the half-backs.

Andrew Porter, captain Sheehan and Tadhg Furlong constitute the front row.

James Ryan and Tadhg Beirne are in the engine room, and a back row of Ryan Baird at blindside flanker, Josh van der Flier at openside and Jack Conan at number eight completing Ireland’s starting line-up.

Strong Irish bench

Farrell has strong options on the bench with Ronan Kelleher, the uncapped McCarthy, Finlay Bealham, Iain Henderson and the returning Caelan Doris the forward replacements.

Craig Casey, Sam Prendergast and Bundee Aki will provide the backline reinforcements.

“A privilege to be back here”

As he looked forward to Saturday’s game against the All Blacks, Ireland Head Coach Andy Farrell said:

“It is a real privilege to be back here in Chicago ahead of a huge game against New Zealand. The clashes with New Zealand over the years have been fantastic occasions and we’re expecting more of the same on Saturday.

“The historic nature of this game is something we are embracing and there’s great excitement in the squad, not least for Paddy McCarthy who is set to make his international debut this weekend. Paddy has made a great start to the season and his selection is testament to his impressive form. We wish him well and will all do our utmost to make it a special weekend for him and his family.”

Ireland (v New Zealand):

(Club/Province/Caps)

15. Jamie Osborne (Naas/Leinster)(8)
14. Tommy O’Brien (UCD/Leinster)(2)
13. Garry Ringrose (UCD/Leinster)(67)
12. Stuart McCloskey (Bangor/Ulster)(21)
11. James Lowe (Leinster)(40)
10. Jack Crowley (Cork Constitution/Munster)(26)
9. Jamison Gibson-Park (Leinster)(43)

1. Andrew Porter (UCD/Leinster)(75)
2. Dan Sheehan (Lansdowne/Leinster)(32)(captain)
3. Tadhg Furlong (Clontarf/Leinster)(79)
4. James Ryan (UCD/Leinster)(72)
5. Tadhg Beirne (Lansdowne/Munster)(61)
6. Ryan Baird (Dublin University/Leinster)(29)
7. Josh van der Flier (UCD/Leinster)(73)
8. Jack Conan (Old Belvedere/Leinster)(51)

Ireland Replacements:

16. Ronan Kelleher (Lansdowne/Leinster)(39)
17. Paddy McCarthy (Dublin University/Leinster)*
18. Finlay Bealham (Corinthians/Connacht)(51)
19. Iain Henderson (Academy/Ulster)(85)
20. Caelan Doris (St Mary’s College/Leinster)(51)
21. Craig Casey (Shannon/Munster)(20)
22. Sam Prendergast (Lansdowne/Leinster)(9)
23. Bundee Aki (Galwegians/Connacht)(65).

* denotes uncapped

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