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

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Italy responded quickly. Jack Murphy, son of former Ireland Under-20 coach Ritchie, had to touch down five meters from his own line. On the ensuing sideline, Italy played perfectly, allowing winger Lorenzo Elletri to find the space he needed to score. Martino Pucciriello scored to give Italy the lead.

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.