England A 18 Ireland A 25
Superior power up front laid the foundations for a memorable Irish victory at Franklin Gardens tonight. A try in each half, from John Kelly and Tyrone Howe respectively, allied to 15 points from the boot of Paul Burke gave Ireland a richly deserved win.
Ireland A, after their emphatic defeat of Wales a fortnight ago, came into the match full of confidence and in front of a crowd of 7,700, a record for an A international, took the game to their opponents right from the start.
The youthful England pack were unable to match their visitors and the wealth of experience in the Ireland A team ensured that the possession wasn’t wasted. Using the rolling maul to devastating effect, Ireland were able to establish good field position from which they launched waves of attacks at the English defences.
When England did come forward, Ireland held firm and the hosts rarely threatened the Irish line.
Not that it was all plain sailing for Matt Williams’ side. Six penalties from out-half Goode kept England in touch, indeed they led with 10 minutes to play, and former Ireland Under 19 international Declan Danaher was a constant thorn in Irish sides.
Nevertheless, on the balance of play the win was richly deserved.
On the downside, Williams will have been concerned with full-back Paddy Wallace’s frailty under the high ball. Five times Goode tested Wallace’s competence under the high ball and on all but one occasion the Ulsterman was found wanting.
Overall, however, the coach will be able to reflect on a job well done, his side providing the perfect tonic ahead of the full international at Twickenham tomorrow afternoon (2.30 p.m.).
Elsewhere, Ireland’s students notched their second win of the campaign, beating England 18-17 at Bournemouth.
Scores:
England A:Pens: Goode 6.
Ireland A:Tries: Kelly, Howe. Pens: Burke 5.