Ireland secured their place in the final of the World Rugby U20 Championship with an impressive victory over the Junior Springboks in the semi-final at Athlone Stadium in Cape Town on Sunday.
In a disappointing campaign for the Junior Boks, Ireland’s dominant second-half performance resulted in a convincing 31-12 win.
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According to SA Rugby Mag, Ireland successfully repelled the relentless Boks during a fiercely contested first half, resulting in a scoreless period. However, a pivotal moment occurred when replacement lock Jannes Potgieter received a late yellow card, providing Ireland with an opportunity.
Winger James Nicholson reportedly capitalised on this advantage, sprinting through the door to give the visitors a 7-0 lead at halftime.
Although Jean Smith missed a couple of scoring opportunities, South Africa made their mark in the third quarter with an exhilarating counter-attack, culminating in a try by scrumhalf Imad Khan.
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Nevertheless, Ireland shifted into a higher gear, with No. 8 Brian Gleeson crashing over the line, Nicholson scoring his second try and replacement back Sam Berman also contributing with a try.
In the closing minutes, the Junior Boks managed a consolation try from lock Coetzee le Roux, but it was not enough to dampen Ireland’s victory.
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Picture: @JuniorBoks / Twitter