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Ireland dump Junior Boks out of World Rugby U20 Championship
By Ian Cameron
Ireland's U20s team overcame a tragic week off the pitch to secure a spot in the World Rugby U20s Championship final with an impressive semi-final victory over hosts South Africa at Athlone Sports Stadium.
Winger James Nicholson played a crucial role in wet conditions, scoring two tries thanks to well-executed cross-field kicks from Sam Prendergast. Despite facing early pressure from the South African team, Ireland's consistent and organized defense held strong.
In the opening half, South Africa dominated possession and territory, spending the majority of the time in Irish territory. However, their efforts were thwarted by the solid Irish defense.
Ireland capitalized on a yellow card for Junior Bok Jannes Potgieter, who was penalized for dangerous play in the 36th minute.
Taking advantage of the penalty, Prendergast delivered a perfectly placed cross-field kick to Nicholson, who touched down for Ireland's first try in the 37th minute.
The second half saw South Africa make a comeback, with Imad Khan scoring under the posts just five minutes into the second forty.
Ireland quickly regained control however as Brian Gleeson bulldozed his way to the try-line from a lineout, restoring their seven-point advantage. The Irish team's cohesion and composure began to wear down their opponents, leading to replacement Sam Berman's try and a conversion to follow from Prendergast.
With five minutes remaining, South Africa managed to breach the Irish defense once more, with Coetzee le Roux scoring a consolation try. However, it was too late to mount a full comeback.
Ireland's impressive performance in the semi-final sets them up for an exciting clash in the World Rugby U20s final, where they will aim to continue their winning streak against either France or England.
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Latest Comments
Willie will always be the most missed player for me once he retires. He wasn't interested in scoring tries. The ultimate team player. Has the most assists in tries in the Bok team, and his kicks always spot on, at least 95% of the time. He reads the game like no other player can. He wasn't flashy, and people didn't notice him because of that. Great rugby head and knowledge. He should be catapulted into an assistant coach in the rugby system. He should really consider coaching.
Damian Willemse is an excellent fullback and he is the number 1 fullback. He can play the entire backline positions, except maybe 9, but I'm sure he would be able too if he wanted. No one is taking that away from him, only stand in while he is injured. He is world class and you don't swap that out. He also got wicked dancing feet, great eye for openings, and reads a game like few can, like Willie Le Roux. Also very strong on his feet, with absolute great hands and his kicking game is just as good.
As for Aphelele Fassi. What a great find and he has exceptional talent that Rassie will mould into a world class player. Yet.... He is nowhere even close to Damien Willemse. He has a long way to go to get there, but he is surrounded by great team mates from who he will gain lots of advice and support. He can play wing and fullback and Rassie may just try him out as a flyhalf or centre too. He has the abilities to expand his game. He is for sure a future star, but not yet at the stage to take away Damien Willemse's spot. However, DW start and AF on the bench, that is an awesome replacement. Between the 2 they cover all positions in the backline once AF gets that training. The Boks could go 6/2 permanently if they wanted. 6 forwards, a scrumhalf and AF. I may be wrong, but Rassie will spread AF around.
Go to commentsGood grief
Beauden was his usual industrious self mixing deft touches with mindless kicks
6 or 7 max!!
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