Under-20s To Light Up Dubarry Park Again
ESB International is once again delighted to join the Irish Rugby Football Union in staging Ireland’s home RBS Under-20 6 Nations Championship matches for the fifth successive season at Dubarry Park in Athlone.
This season the Ireland Under-20s, sponsored by PricewaterhouseCoopers, will play three home matches at Dubarry Park, the home of Buccaneers RFC.
Allen Clarke’s side kick off their campaign against Italy this day week – Friday, February 5 – with a 7.35pm kick-off in Athlone and the game will be broadcast live on RTE Two.
Ireland also have home fixtures against Wales on Friday, March 12 and Scotland on Friday, March 19, hoping to build on last year’s run which saw them finish second in the final table and miss out on the title on points difference to France.
Commenting on the extraordinary success enjoyed by the Irish Under-20 squads at Dubarry Park in recent seasons, ESB Chief Executive Padraig McManus said: “Ireland has made Dubarry Park something of a fortress, having lost just once there in the past four seasons – and managed to precede the senior side with a Grand Slam triumph in 2007.
“ESB’s primary sponsorships are focused on supporting community, sport and youth.
“The U-20 Six Nations Championship embraces all these elements across the island and provide a valuable platform for young emerging talent.
“Jonathan Sexton, Keith Earls, Cian Healy, Sean O’Brien and Sean Cronin are among the stars who have played here at Dubarry Park with distinction in the very recent past, and supporters at this year’s matches can expect a high and exciting standard,” he added.
The Irish Under-20s will again be coached by Allen Clarke this year, assisted by Nigel Carolan and Colin McEntee. They have been joined by a new team manager in Michael Kearney.
Tickets for the Under-20s’ home internationals are currently available from Buccaneers RFC (tel: 0861732711) and locally in Athlone from The Bounty, Musicworld Golden Island and Keenan’s Sports Store.
Stand tickets are limited so early purchase is recommended, while family tickets are particularly good value, covering two adults and two accompanying children.
There is also a special 3-for-2 offer available, covering the three games against Italy, Wales and Scotland. For more details, contact Buccaneers RFC.
Related Links –
Ireland Under-20 Squad Announced