SA Under-19s touch down in Cork, eye strong finish against Ireland

THE SOUTH African Under-19 Academy squad has arrived in Cork, Ireland, looking to end their European tour on a high when they face Ireland U19 on Friday.

The touring side goes into the match determined to bounce back from a tough 20–12 defeat to France U19 in Châteauroux on Saturday. That encounter, described by the coaching staff as a physically demanding test, provided plenty of lessons for the young squad as they continue building toward the 2026 international season.

Travel proved challenging following the French match, with delays from Paris to Dublin and some luggage left behind, meaning the team reached their Cork hotel late on Sunday evening after a three-hour bus transfer. Yet, the coaching staff remain upbeat.

“Every international tour brings unexpected tests, and this journey was certainly one of them, but it only reinforces the need for adaptability and mental toughness,” said Junior Springboks head coach Kevin Foote. “We’re here to learn and grow, and that applies to how we handle travel and adversity just as much as how we handle the on-field challenge.”

The focus of this tour remains player development, gaining international experience, and embedding the team’s culture ahead of key fixtures, including the U20 Rugby Championship and the World Rugby U20 Championship in Georgia, where the Junior Boks will defend their title.

Foote reflected positively on the French encounter. “Our set piece was solid, and our tight five did a proper job in the scrums and lineouts. We were under huge pressure early on, but our defence scrambled well, and some of our kicking, particularly by Vusi Moyo, helped relieve that pressure.”

However, Foote emphasised that improving fundamentals remains a priority. “We need to work on our combinations, link play, and core skills, particularly around the breakdown and line speed at the international level. That’s how we’ll play the type of rugby we want.”

The team’s Cork schedule is focused on preparation and recovery. Monday will be spent on game clarity and match review, with on-field training resuming on Tuesday. Wednesday is earmarked for recovery, while Thursday features the captain’s run as the final step before the Irish encounter.

With lessons learned from France and resilience tested off the field, the SA U19s are ready to give Ireland a stern challenge and finish their European tour on a high.