Ireland opened their U20 Championship with a 55-15 thrashing of Italy at the DHL Stadium. Thanks to five tries in the first half. Quarterback center Sam Berman shone with a hat-trick, including two tries before the break, to mark Ireland's best efficiency in the opposite 22.
From their first advance to the Italian 22 yards, hooker Danny Sheehan scored soon after the kick-off.
confrontation
World Rugby U20 Championship
Ireland U20
Italy U20
All statistics and data
Soon after, the Italians increased the pressure with a deep attack from the second half which caused the Irish defense to crumble.
But Ireland found their rhythm. Luke Murphy recovered a crucial ball at a ruck to give his side the lead again. Evan O'Connell capitalized on a poorly negotiated Italian touch to score a third try.
Competition Summary
1
Penalty kicks
1
135
Ball games
86
Italy pushed Ireland to their limits in the tournament The Six Nations U20s are hoping for a quick response. But Ireland scored again in the 27th minute through Berman, who took advantage of an unexpected line inspired by Welsh center Jamie Roberts' first try. Ten minutes later, Berman scored his second try thanks to a well-orchestrated passing game.
After half-time, Luca Bellucci reduced the deficit, while Sean Edogbu was sent off for a dangerous tackle. However, Berman completed his hat-trick in the 47th minute to give Ireland a bit of a boost. Finn Treacy added a seventh try within ten minutes and Sean Naughton sealed victory with an eighth try in the 65th minute.
Ireland had turned the match well before the end with a good start to their campaign.
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