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Ireland U20s bag Grand Slam to round off remarkable weekend for Irish rugby

By Ian Cameron
Cork , Ireland - 19 March 2023; Brian Gleeson of Ireland celebrates as team mate George Hadden scores their side's third try during the U20 Six Nations Rugby Championship match between Ireland and England at Musgrave Park in Cork. (Photo By David Fitzgerald/Sportsfile via Getty Images)

The Ireland U20s rugby team achieved a remarkable feat by winning the Six Nations Grand Slam in style, beating England 36-24 at Musgrave Park. The young Irish team, steered by Sam Prendergast, produced a scintillating display of attacking rugby, scoring five tries to secure a memorable victory.

The game was evenly poised in the first half, with both teams exchanging blows and scoring tries. However, Ireland took control in the second half and put in a dominant display, with No.8 Brian Gleeson scoring two tries and fly-half Prendergast controlling the game with his excellent kicking and playmaking skills.

England mounted a late comeback late in the second half despite having flyhalf Monty Bradbury sent off for a dangerous tackle.

This victory was the culmination of an outstanding campaign for the Ireland U20s, who had previously defeated France, Scotland, Wales, and Italy to set up the Grand Slam decider against England.

The team showed great character, determination, and skill throughout the tournament, and their victory will undoubtedly inspire the next generation of Irish rugby players.