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Ireland's Alex Mullan is tackled by Harri Ford of Wales. Ben Brady/INPHO
Report
Missed opportunities prove costly as Ireland U20s fall short in Wales
Neil Doak’s side slipped 14-0 behind in the opening 15 minutes.
Wales U20 20
Ireland U20 12
Nathan Johns reports from Rodney Parade
THIS WAS NOT in the script for Neil Doak and the Ireland U20s. Despite dominating both possession and territory statistics, a poor attacking display in the Newport wet combined with an inspired Welsh defensive display resulted in a shock defeat for Ireland – who last lost to Wales at this level in 2018.
Henry Walker and Eoghan Smyth crossed for Ireland before half-time, but the poor start which gave Wales a two-score head start was never overcome. Charlie Molony dropped the ball over the line while Éanna McCarthy and Mikey Yarr were both held up over the line, but even with those missed opportunities, Wales were full value for their win.
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