Ireland U20’s had a run out on Sunday evening, against an experienced Munster Development team, as part of their preparation for the 2011 IRB Junior World Cup.
The U20’s played different line ups each half as they looked to finalise their selection process ahead of the competition which starts in less than four weeks time.
From an Ulster perspective the weekend got off to a bad start with wing forward Stephen Leckey suffering hamstring trouble on Friday night and now looks doubtful for the trip to Italy with this the latest setback in a spate of injuries this season.
In light of this it’s strange that Ruddock hasn’t had a look at Dave McGuigan who was at least on power with Leckey prior to his [McGuigan’s] injury in the U20’s Interpros early in the season.
With regards to the match it was good to see Ulster props Andrew Warwick and Conor Carey combine with fellow Ulsterman, and Ireland captain, Niall Annett in an all Ulster front row during the second half.
Annett’s return was particularly pleasing, after injury lay off, with the Quins hooker leading effectively and fronting up when required. A bit more game time after his long lay off would be a bonus though.
Patrick Jackson and James McKinney played half about and both made good contributions though Jackson appeared to make more happen in his second half stint.
Luke Marshall played 15-20 minutes at full-back in the 2nd half and came through with a strong performance in what was an interesting positional switch.
Iain Henderson played the 2nd half in 2nd row with a typically tenacious outing.
No Craig Gilroy but he should figure next week with a game against Leinster Development scheduled for Sunday at Wanderers RFC.
The “Official” Squad for Italy will be announced later this week with the team meeting in Dublin on the 4th June to travel to Italy on the 6th giving them a few days to settle in before their opening fixture against England on 10th June.
