The Five Nations U18 Festival goes into its second day, today Tuesday April 6, when England face Ireland (2pm) and Scotland take on Italy (4pm)
In the opening games last Friday, Wales beat Ireland 24-18 whilst England overcame Scotland 29-9.
England will be going all out to record their 18th consecutive win at this age group and coach John Fletcher is likely to field his best side against the Irish.
There are doubts over wing Marland Yarde (Whitgift) – the scorer of four tries against Scotland – who had a nasty bang on the knee but there is great strength in the English squad.
Skipper and fly-half George Ford, son of England defence coach Mike Ford, is likely to return and lead the side in its last game of the season.
Having already beaten France 33-16, Italy 28-12 and Wales 43-22 before the tournament in Llandovery, a win today will secure a Grand Slam for the English boys.
Italy make their first appearance in this year’s Festival when they take on Scotland who played bravely against England before conceding five tries.
The Italians gave England a hard game before losing in Calvisano last month and will fancy their chances of starting off with a win.
The Church Bank pitch has stood up remarkably well after two internationals on Friday and a Principality Premiership game on Saturday and with no forecast of rain, today’s games should offer plenty of quality rugby from the four teams involved.
The Festival finishes on Saturday when Wales play Italy (2 00 pm), followed by Scotland v Ireland (4 pm).
