Ireland’s senior and U20 rugby teams have followed remarkably similar paths through this year’s Six Nations, and that shared journey was recognised in a classy moment from Andy Farrell this week.
The Ireland senior coach addressed the U20 squad during an open training session at the Aviva Stadium, congratulating them on their impressive win over England and thanking them for the momentum they helped create.
The U20 side set the tone for the weekend with a superb 31-21 victory in Bath on Friday night, before the senior team followed it up with a statement performance of their own at Twickenham the following day, running out 42-21 winners.
Andy Farrell Shows His Class With Message To Ireland U20 Team
Speaking to the young squad at the Aviva, Farrell made it clear their performance had not gone unnoticed by the senior camp.
Thanks very much for what you did on Friday night for us.
It meant a lot to us lot, really proud of you. I thought it was outstanding.
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Andy Farrell also stressed that, much like the senior side, the challenge for the U20s now lies in building on that momentum in the closing stages of the championship.
It’s the same for both teams now lads, it’s what we do from here that matters.
We’ve got to make sure that we keep turning up every single session to get better and finish the competition off unbelievably strong.
The two teams have mirrored each other’s campaigns so far. Both suffered defeats away to France in the opening round before bouncing back with wins over Italy and then England to place themselves back in the championship conversation should either France side slip up.
Ireland U20 coach Andrew Browne admitted the victory in England was a particularly special moment for the group.
That Friday night was special and we let the players know that as well. It’s something they’ll always remember.
However, Browne also emphasised the importance of quickly refocusing ahead of their next challenge against Wales.
It was important that they enjoyed that win and reflected on it, but then move on. That’s the nature of this game.
With two wins under our belt now hopefully we can build momentum.
Browne believes the squad’s connection has been a major strength, with many of the players having come through Ireland’s underage system together.
The majority of them would have played together at under-18 and under-19 level, so they’re really well connected.
They’ve had success before, so there should naturally be belief that they’re a really good team.
As both Irish teams prepare for crucial final rounds in the championship, Farrell’s message highlighted that maintaining a shared culture remains crucial to developing talent across the national setup.
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