Sunday sees Ireland U20s face England in the semi-final of the 2024 World Rugby U20 Championship in South Africa. Ireland's under-20 squad remains one of the top contenders, coming off an unbeaten run in this year's Six Nations championship.
The match is a repeat of the Six Nations decider played last March in Bath, where both teams battled to an epic 34-34 draw.
FULL-TIME
Ireland snatch a 32-32 draw with the last play of the game as Luke Murphy forces his way over.
What a game of rugby
📺Watch live https://t.co/b2OI4OoWVJ
📱Live updates https://t.co/2MQaHZSKST pic.twitter.com/I3SeNIg6qJ— RTÉ Sport (@RTEsport) March 8, 2024
The Pool Games
Ireland topped Pool B with one impressive performance, one not-so-impressive performance and a cancelled final game.
They opened with an 8-try demolition of Italy, romping home 55-15. Their second pool game proved more challenging, needing a last-minute try by Finn Tracey to overcome a very physical Georgian team 22-16.
Three of the best for Sam Berman! 🙌
Starting off with a hat-trick for @IrishRugby 🤩#WorldRugbyU20s | #IREvITA pic.twitter.com/CDKGF1xd60
— World Rugby (@WorldRugby) June 29, 2024
Ireland's final pool game against Australia, last Tuesday, was controversially cancelled due to weather and pitch conditions. This decision sparked controversy, with the Australian coaching staff accusing Irish management of pressuring the referee to cancel the match.
The cancellation highlighted a significant issue: the lack of a backup venue. Despite the Western Cape's typically wet conditions this time of year, which affected other final-round games, no alternative plans were in place.
❌ Ireland U20 v Australia has been called off.
Ireland had warmed up in the car park to preserve the pitch but the monsoon-like conditions has left it unplayable.
Each team has been awarded 2 points which means Ireland reach the semi-finals.@PwCIreland #FutureIsGreen pic.twitter.com/NOsQest2j8
— Balls.ie (@ballsdotie) July 9, 2024
Ireland's Form
The cancellation of Ireland's third pool game could prove a huge advantage for Ireland. At this crucial stage of the tournament, having played one fewer game than their competitors offers a significant edge.
This advantage is particularly apparent when contrasted with England's game against South Africa on Tuesday - a gruelling, physical encounter played in muddy, torrential conditions. As a result, Ireland should enter the semi-final considerably fresher than their opponents.
It's celebration time for @EnglandRugby 🏴#WorldRugbyU20s | #RSAvENG pic.twitter.com/vTkcAyLRZH
— World Rugby (@WorldRugby) July 9, 2024
Ireland's tournament form has been varied so far. Their performance against Italy was particularly impressive, highlighted by standout displays from Sam Berman and Finn Tracey.
Berman, who has battled injuries throughout the season, seems to have returned to his best, evidenced by his hat-trick against Italy. Tracey has been consistently good in both games, with much of Ireland's strategy centred around him.
Some way to get a last-minute winner 👏
Finn Treacy steps up with the score for @IrishRugby 🤩#WorldRugbyU20s | #IREvGEO pic.twitter.com/OTlBVwoIKW
— World Rugby (@WorldRugby) July 4, 2024
However, there are areas Ireland must address to overcome England on Sunday. Team discipline is a primary concern, with Ireland receiving two yellow cards and conceding 26 penalties in just two matches.
Against a team of England's calibre, such lapses could prove costly. Additionally, Ireland's scrum performance is worrying, having struggled significantly in this area against Georgia. England will likely aim to exploit this perceived weakness.
While Ireland's reduced game time and individual brilliance provide reasons for optimism, addressing disciplinary issues and scrum stability will be crucial to their chances of success in the semi-final.
Big Players Need Big Games
For Ireland to defeat England and secure another World Cup final berth, their key players must rise to the occasion.
The return of Munster No.8 Brian Gleeson, who missed the March encounter in Bath, could be a game-changer. Gleeson's formidable ball-carrying ability is likely to cause England's defence problems, creating opportunities for Ireland to exploit.
Muy buenas condiciones las del chico Hugh Gavin.
Irlanda M-20 es un calco al seleccionado mayor. Por ahora Georgia se planta bien. 12-6 al entretiempo. pic.twitter.com/RYek4IO3IO
— Periodismo Rugby (@Perrugby) July 4, 2024
Another player crucial to Ireland's success is Connacht centre Hugh Gavin. On his best day, Gavin is one of the top underage players in the tournament. His performance could be pivotal in determining Ireland's fortunes in this semi-final clash.
Absolutely outstanding kick from Jack Murphy and Finn Treacy does the rest!
Ireland have settled well and look dangerous.
🌹 10-10 ☘️@PwCIreland #futureisgreen pic.twitter.com/Li8LLma32w
— Balls.ie (@ballsdotie) March 8, 2024
The potential return of captain Evan O'Connell remains a concern for the Irish side. Recent images showing O'Connell on crutches cast doubt on his availability for Sunday's match. His absence would be a significant blow to both team leadership and on-field performance.
2024 WORLD RUGBY UNDER-20 CHAMPIONSHIP POOLS & FIXTURES:
Match Day 1: Saturday, June 29 – Pool B: Ireland 55 v 15 Italy, DHL Stadium, Cape Town.
Match Day 2: Thursday, July 4 – Pool B: Ireland 22 v 16 Georgia, Danie Craven Stadium, Stellenbosch.
Match Day 3: Tuesday, July 9 – Pool B: Ireland v Australia, Athlone Sports Stadium, Cape Town, 2 pm CANCELLED
Match Day 4: Sunday, July 14 Semi-finals: Ireland v England, DHL Stadium, Cape Town. 3.30 pm.
Match Day 5: Friday, July 19 (Final and ranking matches)
