Rugby round-up:Ireland's under-20s remain on course to secure their first Six Nations title since 2007 after Paddy Jackson helped kick them to a 27-8 victory over Italy in Dubarry Park. Ireland looked to have sealed the win with just Jackson's penalties, but Italian winger Alex Morsellino showed admirable pace to run home fromm his own 22 three minutes from time to put just a converted try between the sides.
But Ireland accelerated clear late on and lock Ian Henderson and Connacht starlet Shane Leyden both crossed for tries in the closing minutes. However, it was the accuracy of Paddy Jackson that proved key in this Irish win as he landed five penalties and a conversion to wipe away two average days from the tee.
Ireland’s women secured their first win of the tournament thanks to a six-try 40-10 win over the Italians. It was a well deserved victory for the hosts, who came agonisingly close against France last time out, with a one-point defeat, and had also led 10-3 against Wales before frost at the Meath venue called a premature halt to proceedings in the opening round.
Two tries apiece from Niamh Kavanagh and Amy Davis were added to by scores from Marie Louise Reilly and Joy Neville while Niamh Briggs kicked 10 points in a dominant display by the Irish women.
