Ireland intent on bouncing back

UNDER-20:Ireland Under-20's prop Chris Taylor knew how important his side's defeat to Scotland was two weeks ago in Galashiels. It means Ireland are out of the running but no less determined to bounce back stronger to face France today in Dubarry Park.

It was a last-gasp conversion by Tommy Allan, after Damien Hoyland’s second try of the night, which sealed a 21-20 win for Scotland but tonight coach Mike Ruddock welcomes the return of Ulster’s Stuart Olding and Conor Joyce.

Both have been involved in Pro 12 recently, with Olding starting at fullback and partnering David Panter and Rory Scholes who are named on the wing. Joyce has been named at blindside flanker alongside UCD’s Josh Van Der Flier and Ryan Murphy.

France beat Italy in their opening match but subsequently lost to Wales and England. Given the conditions are likely to be greasy, a big-pack performance will be required by the home side.

“We have a tough battle on our hands against a strong French team,” said Ruddock. “They have recalled to their squad a number of players with Heineken Cup experience. We need to reproduce our valiant effort we showed against England.”