Ireland Hold On For Crucial Six Nations Victory Over Italy
Ireland edged past Italy 20-13 on Saturday in Dublin to get their Six Nations campaign back on track. It was a tightly contested match, the closest home game between the sides since 2008, as Italy put up a strong fight. A try from Robert Baloucoune in the 56th minute ultimately proved decisive for Andy Farrell’s side.
Pressure Mounts on the Champions
The scrappy win heaps more pressure on the 2024 champions, who face a challenging trip to England next week.
Projected Lineup vs. England
Front Row: Jeremy Loughman, Dan Sheehan, Tadhg Furlong
Following Italy’s strong set-piece performance, a change in the front row is anticipated. Tadhg Furlong is expected to solidify the tighthead side. Jeremy Loughman’s growing value at scrum time makes him a strong contender against Joe Heyes.
Lock: Joe McCarthy, James Ryan
An unchanged lock pairing is likely, with Leinster duo McCarthy and Ryan set to continue.
Back-Row: Tadhg Beirne, Caelan Doris (capt), Jack Conan
Changes are expected in the back-row. Tadhg Beirne is likely to return on the blindside flank. Caelan Doris and Jack Conan are expected to continue, providing a balance of power, and athleticism.
Half-Back: Jamison Gibson-Park, Sam Prendergast
A return to the starting duo from the Paris match seems likely.
Centre: Stuart McCloskey, Garry Ringrose
Stuart McCloskey continues to impress in green, setting up tries in both halves. The partnership with Garry Ringrose is expected to continue.
Back-Three: James Lowe, Jamie Osborne, Robert Baloucoune
James Lowe, Jamie Osborne, and Robert Baloucoune are projected to form the back three, with Osborne and Baloucoune both having scored tries in the recent match.
Replacements: Ronan Kelleher, Michael Milne, Tom Clarkson, Edwin Edogbo, Cormac Izuchukwu, Josh van der Flier, Craig Casey, Jack Crowley.
The 6/2 bench split is expected to continue, with Munster players potentially featuring prominently.
Ireland faces a difficult task against England, but a strong performance and impactful bench could keep their tournament hopes alive.
“Ireland survived a major scare by holding on to scrape an unconvincing 20-13 Guinness Six Nations win over Italy in Dublin.”
Frequently Asked Questions
- What was the final score of the Ireland vs. Italy match? Ireland 20 – 13 Italy.
- Who scored the tries for Ireland? Jamie Osborne, Jack Conan, and Robert Baloucoune.
- When is Ireland’s next match? Against England next week.