Hull KR youngster James Farrar’s perfect goalkicking proved to be the difference in an excellent contest, as Ireland’s men defeated Netherlands 30-28 at Zaandijk Rugby Club in Zaandam in a senior international for world ranking points.

Both sides posted five tries, Ireland leading 30-12 at the break, Netherlands hitting back with Damon Koolstra scoring 16 points for the hosts from two tries and four goals. 

Ireland head coach, Wayne Kerr, commented: “It was a great game but one of two halves! We controlled the first and played with maturity for a team with the average age of 19. In the second our errors let the Netherlands back into the game, they took their chances and put us under a lot of pressure with their experienced playmakers. 

“The biggest result was that our boys stuck in there which I was very proud of. It was the youngest Ireland senior team ever fielded, and definitely shows that our pathways programme has been a success to date. If we can keep building towards the future, it could be very bright with these lads.”

Skipper Liam O’Callaghan led the way for the visitors, the Wests Warriors’ hooker posting two tries as did Netherlands loose forward Tom Van Bokhoven, but the Ireland defence held, not conceding a point in the second forty minutes.

Netherlands men’s head coach, Dave Hunter, said: “Unfortunately we started too slowly, Ireland dominated possession and kept us pinned in our own end. We were much improved in the second half and created more momentum but couldn’t quite close out the match. Congratulations to the Irish, they thoroughly deserved their victory.”