Odds against Irish in Madeira event

IRELAND open their defence of the European youths team golf championship in Madeira today under no illusions about the task ahead of them.

With only one survivor - Andrew McCormick - from the side that won in Denmark two years ago, Ireland will he hard pressed to hold onto their title.

The selectors have made significant changes to the team that defeated Wales 5-4 in the recent youths international at Royal Portrush.

Of the six who played there, only McCormick and Rory Leonard have retained their places.

Of the other home nations, Scotland appear to have the strongest line up and retain the team that beat Ireland 7-2 earlier this season.