Ireland U20 coach Mike Ruddock faces a daunting opening assignment against England at the World Cup but the Grand Slam-winner is energised by the talented youth around him. The Irish Independent's Hugh Farrelly reports.
"When it comes to kicking off tournaments as underdogs against England, Ireland U-20 coach Mike Ruddock has decent form.
"Back in February 2005, Ruddock was in charge of a Wales team that went into their opening Six Nations clash against then world champions England as an unproven force, but, on a memorable day at the Millennium Stadium, eked out an unexpected 11-9 victory that would serve as a launchpad for their first Grand Slam in 27 years.
"History does not reflect too kindly on that England side, which was without a clutch of World Cup-winners and contained the likes of Andy Hazell, Chris Jones, Charlie Hodgson and an 18-year-old Mathew Tait, and the challenge facing Ruddock's Irish side tomorrow in Treviso could be said to be more daunting.
"As usual, England's U-20s are physically enormous and go into the tournament as one of the favourites, having scorched to this year's Six Nations title, rounded off with a six-try 46-10 hammering of Ireland in Athlone. The fact Ruddock must then steel his men for the challenge of South Africa four days later, adds to the size of the task, but the Welshman's solitary focus is on upsetting the English."
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