Patrick Wallace has enjoyed a measured development since the halcyon days of 1998 when he helped Ireland to win the FIRA Under-19 World Championships in France, including scoring a try in the defeat of France in the final. Since then the former Campbell College outhalf has joined UCD on a scholarship.

Under the astute guidance of Lee Smith and John McClean, Wallace has graduated from an occasional first team player last season at full back and centre to first choice outhalf this year. He has also graduated to the national under-21 side where he has formed a potent partnership in the centre with club colleague Shane Moore.

Although his preference would be for outhalf, Wallace has displayed the pace, footwork and good vision that mark him as an outstanding prospect.