In Aix-en-Provence, Ireland’s U20 rugby team delivered a standout performance, securing a thrilling 37-31 victory against world champions France. The back-to-back Grand Slam champions demonstrated remarkable teamwork, overcoming a challenging atmosphere with both forwards and backs contributing.
Despite an initial nervy start leading to a conceded scrum, Ireland quickly recovered, with Wilhelm de Kerk’s textbook tackle and Bryn Ward’s ruck disruption setting the stage for a spectacular try by Danny Sheahan, flawlessly converted by Murphy in the sixth minute.
France responded swiftly, showcasing speed on the outside and testing Ben O’Connor, leading to a try converted by Tom Raffy. Grégoire Arfeuil‘s dazzling moves added confusion, but Hugo McLaughlin’s composed play secured possession for Ireland.
Despite the formidable challenge posed by Grégoire Arfeuil and a blazing run by Patrick Tuifua, Ireland stood firm. Gavin’s counter from the 22 seemed destined for a try, but Ben O’Connor was caught by Bosmorin, denying Hugo McLaughlin a clear walk-in pass.
Crucially, Gavin and de Klerk executed a turnover, enabling Brian Gleeson to power away from the scrum and trample over blue shirts for another try. Murphy’s successful conversion extended Ireland’s lead to 14-7 in the 25th minute.
The Irish driving maul emerged as a methodical weapon against the agile footwork of Leo Carbonneau, showcasing uncommon strength over the ball. Twice, the French maul looked to splinter their guests inside the 22. Despite this, Ireland’s resilience, strategic play, and precise execution contributed to an impressive victory, signaling their potential in the ongoing tournament.
In a match filled with intense moments, Ireland faced a test as the French surged ahead. However, Ireland utilized the maul effectively, tempting Grégoire Arfeuil into a slapdown, resulting in a yellow card. The big men in the Irish squad executed the maul with authority, and Gavin’s line split the French for another try, converted by Murphy, making it 24-21 in the 52nd minute.
The French fought back with penalties, leading to a try by flanker Tuifua, converted by Raffy in the 47th minute. Ireland found themselves behind for the first time, but their strategic play and mauling strength proved crucial. The Irish regained the lead with a try by Finn Treacy, converted by Murphy, making it 31-24 in the 68th minute The closing minutes saw relentless pressure from both teams, with the French equalizing through Mael Perrin’s try and Raffy’s conversion in the 74th minute. In a display of resilience, Ireland applied educated and energetic pressure, earning a crucial penalty converted by Murphy.
Facing the weight of expectation, the French cracked under pressure as Gleeson seized an opportunity, and Murphy added another penalty at the final whistle. The match ended with Ireland securing a well-deserved victory, showcasing their determination and recovery from apparent setbacks.
Scorers for France: M Castro-Ferreira 2 tries; P Tuifua, M Perrin try; T Raffy pen, 4 cons.
Scorers for Ireland: D Sheahan, B Gleeson, H Gavin, F Treacy try each; J Murphy 2 pens, 4 cons.
Player Replacements:
France: L Ametlla, Joé Quere Karaba, Antonin Corso, Robin Couly, Thomas Duchêne, Maxence Biasotto, N Nene.
Ireland: E Graham, J Boyd, L Murphy, H Walker, B Howard, B Corrigan.