Ireland totally dominant

Ireland ran in 15 tries as the hapless Italians endured a desperately unhappy evening at Musgrave Park in the inaugural under-21 international between the nations. e, `that it could have been a hundred,' was never more appropriate.

Ireland literally dominated the Italians at will and but for a lack of concentration on several occasions, a century of points would have been reached. To say that the visitors were limited would be an understatement but by the same token it would be churlish not to acknowledge another excellent, entertaining 80 minutes from Ireland.

There is a commitment in the Irish side to pursuing an expansive approach whatever the opposition, and on nights like this feeble tackling merely facilitated a mammoth score. Garryowen outhalf Jeremy Staunton amassed 30 points from two tries and 10 conversions but his contribution was far greater. He breached the first line of defence time and again, linking with the support and when none was at hand simply danced past the opposition for his two tries.

Centre Patrick Wallace was another who thrived in the generous space given, beating his man and creating opportunities for those outside. Gordon D'Arcy was a constant threat at full back but was not really needed in attack.

The large portion of credit should go to the Irish pack and in particular Cork Constitution second-rower Donnacha O'Callaghan who enjoyed a tremendous game in all aspects of his duties. He was superbly effective as a ball carrier, making huge yardage and fully deserved his two tries. Ballymena back row Chris McCarey managed one better, scoring a hat-trick, in a fine display.

Niall Treston continued where he left off against the Scots, making one light-footed run that took him past, as opposed to through, three opponents. Openside Andrew Hughes ensured the continuity that Ireland craved while Kieron Campbell invariably chose the right option.

Ireland led 38-7 at the interval, the pick of the six first-half tries that of blindside flanker John Skurr. D'Arcy made a great break down the blindside from inside his own 22, cross-kicked intelligently and O'Callaghan regathered to send Skurr in. Unfortunately Skurr pulled a hamstring in scoring.

The second half was even more bountiful for the Irish with the home side scoring nine tries.

Campbell's slanting run from inside his own half accompanied by two neat side-steps and a 40-metre run in under the posts was probably the individual highlight.