HAVING defeated both Scotland and England, the prize at stake for the Ireland schools' side against Wales at Ravenhill tonight (7.0) is the Triple Crown. Wales, having drawn with England, cannot win the title.
It would be the third Triple Crown for the Irish schools since 1990 they won the title that year and again in 1993. While Wales invariably provide stern opposition at this level, and matches between the two countries are usually very close, Ireland will be favoured to win tonight. Ireland, with seven wins in the last 10 matches, have a fine record against the Welsh over the last decade.
Ireland make just one change from the team that defeated Scotland and England with John Campbell of Terenure College taking over at prop for Simon Best. Two of the Irish side, hooker Peter Smyth and number eight Leo Cullen, were on the side that lost to Wales (28-20) last season. The Welsh have just one survivor from that match, second row Rhodri Edwards. The Irish pack certainly looks capable of winning the possession on which a talented back line can prosper.
