HIGHLIGHTS | Ireland record comfortable win in build up to Rugby World Cup

Ireland were good value for their win, as they look strong ahead of the Rugby World Cup next month.

Andy Farrell’s Ireland side kicked off the Bank of Ireland Nations Series with a comfortable five try win over Italy at the Aviva Stadium over the weekend.

Having fell behind to an early penalty, it took just 12 minutes before Ireland had their first try, as Dave Kilcoyne bundled the ball over the line. The try was converted by Jack Crowley as Ireland claimed a 7-3 lead.

Just before the half hour mark Ireland would go over again, as Caelan Doris powered over to give his side control. Once again Crowley kicked the conversion to extended the lead for Farrell’s men.

Ireland managed to force a turnover just before the interval, right in front of the try line, and Stuart McClusky drove through all in his way to touch down for Ireland’s third try of the afternoon. Crowley’s conversion ensured Ireland held a 21-3 lead at the break.

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Against the run of play it was Italy who would record the first try of the second half, with substitute Lorenzo Pani touching down after ten minutes of action. The conversion was nailed from a tight angle to cut the deficit to ten points.

As the game entered the final 20 minutes, it was the experienced Cian Healy who crashed over for Irelands fourth try.

Italy managed to breach the Ireland yet again, as Tommaso Menoncello found his way through. The conversion was nailed and Ireland’s lead was cut to nine points.

With less than ten minutes on the clock, Caelan Doris touched down for his second, and Ireland’s fifth try of the evening. Following a review from the TMO the try was awarded, and was converted to give Ireland a healthy 33-17 lead.

Calvin Nash made his Irish debut late on with the Munster man in scintillating form for his club in their run to the URC title.

The final whistle sounded to give Ireland the victory as they continue to prepare for the Rugby World Cup, which is right around the corner.