Under-19 World Cup

Ireland v Scotland: Ireland coach Charlie McAleese has made one change from the side that lost narrowly to the defending champions…

Ireland v Scotland:Ireland coach Charlie McAleese has made one change from the side that lost narrowly to the defending champions, Australia, for tonight's game, giving his son Harry the starting role at scrumhalf, with Kris Greene dropping to the bench.

It will be interesting to note how the home side fare physically after a bruising encounter with the Aussies. McAleese was right to bridle at the labelling of his side as "tenacious" after that match. They showed much more than mere grit.

"I wouldn't knock Irish rugby. Sometimes people say you're great scrappers and you get stuck in there. Our team were every bit as skilful as the Australians. We may not, in some areas, have had the pace and maybe the power . . . because we don't develop our bodies as early as they do and that always leaves our guys at a bit of a disadvantage.

"I thought our use of the ball was very intelligent and I think it can get better as the tournament goes on."

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Ireland face a Scottish side that lost narrowly (11-6) to France in their opening encounter. They will need to be more composed in possession and perhaps back themselves to hang onto the ball if they are to kick-start their tournament tonight.

IRELAND: A Craig; N Morris, E O'Malley, C Cleary, P Brophy; S Deasy, H McAleese; P Karayiannis, S Douglas, M Nelson; B Cawley, I Nagle; K Essex, R Reilly, P Ryan (capt).

SCOTLAND: M Allan; L Jones, C Kinlock, S McColl, T Bury; R Jackson, R Samson; G Strain, A Duncan, J Stafford; N Patrick, J Brown; F McKenzie (capt), K Bryce, A Wukovits.

Referee: J Pritchard (Australia).

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John O'Sullivan

John O'Sullivan

John O'Sullivan is an Irish Times sports writer