Under 21 World Cup Win For Ireland

Tries from number 8 Ciaran Potts and full-back Peter O’Brien and eleven points from the boot of Michael Rainey gave the Ireland Under 21s a 21-15 victory over Scotland in Newbury this afternoon.

Out-half Rainey kicked three first half penalties and Potts scored his try to leave the Irish 14-8 ahead at the interval.

They scored a superb second try in the 74th minute, O’Brien finishing off a move that saw the ball go through half a dozen pair of hands before O’Brien touched down. But minutes before the final whistle the Scots struck back with their second try of the game.

It was a thoroughly effecient display by the Irish against a much bigger Scotland side and when the Irish were asked to defend they did so with a high degree of courage and resolve.

They are now left with a game against Argentina – who lost today 24-18 to Wales – and the objective here is to win and gain a bonus point. The game will be played in Iffley Road next Saturday (6pm).