The Ireland Under 20 team has been named for their final fixture of the Under 20s Six Nations Championship, in the ESB Series, at Dubarry Park, where they take on Scotland.
Allen Clarke makes two changes to the side which defeated Wales. Simon Zebo returns to the starting line up following an injury to Darren Hudson and Eoin Griffin replaces Brendan Macken at outside centre. Four Phoenix Ulster Rugby Academy players are named on the 22 man team, with Nevin Spence, James McKinney and Niall Annett, in the first XV.
The Irish side currently sit top of the table with a 17 point lead on nearest challenger England.
Speaking of the task ahead, Clarke said:
"The players are aware of the consequences of Friday's game and the opportunity as a result of the performances to date. However the approach is to focus on the things which we can control. In simple terms respecting the opposition in preparing for 'another test match' with the same diligence, concentration and desire to improve individually and collectively, while ensuring rest and enjoyment at the appropriate times.
"The mood in the camp is good and there is a real sense of desire to deliver the required performance in what will be another tough encounter against Scotland"
Ireland Under 20 take on Scotland U20 on Friday 12th March at 19.35hrs in Dubarry Park, Athlone.
Ireland U20 team to play Scotland U20:
15 - Andrew Conway
14 - Tiernan O'Halloran
13 - Eoin Griffin
12 - Nevin Spence (Ulster)
11 - Simon Zebo
10 - James McKinney (Ulster)
9 - John Cooney
1 - Jack O'Connell
2 -Niall Annett (Ulster)
3 -Stewart Maguire
4 -David O'Callaghan
5 - Ben Marshall
6 - Rhys Ruddock (Capt.)
7 - Dominic Ryan
8 - Patrick Butler
Replacements:
16 - Risteard Byrne
17 - Bryan Cagney
18 - Brian Hayes
19 - Robin O'Sullivan
20 - Michael Heaney (Ulster)
21 - Gareth Quinn McDonogh
22 - Brendan Macken
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