Ireland Presidents XV 10 V England Academy 0 - 11/01/2004

A strong Ireland squad defeated the England Academy 10-0 in Limerick. However, it was an excellent first outing for this seasons England Academy side against an experienced, mainly first choice Ireland team.  Boasting 309 caps, Ireland dominated the early skirmishes in windy, wet conditions at Thomond Park, Limerick and scored through Sarahjane Belton's quick thinking and a lapse in English concentration from a quick penalty.

Nicky Milner scored 10 minutes later, rounding the England defence as conditions started to deteriorate.  England's young side held together however and produced some fine periods of play, led by the robust Katy Storie and effervescent Jane Leonard. 

Ably skippered by new captain Karen Jones, and the introduction of the quicksilver Natasha Fitt, England broke several times through a tiring Ireland defence and only scrambling last ditch tackles and some dropped passes denied any consolation scores.

Many fine all round performances capped a very enjoyable and extremely useful weekend with a wealth of experience gained by all. 

The Academy's next fixture is a joint affair with England Under 19 against Holland on the 22nd of February.