Allan Massie: Juniors learning harsh lesson in Italy

THE main merit of the Junior Rugby World Cup now being played in Italy is that it shows our young players just what they have to aspire to. For obvious reasons we have always struggled at age-group level; insufficient competition for places, insufficient experience of playing under intense pressure. Sean Lineen’s team had a better than usual under-20 Six Nations, beating Wales, Ireland and Italy, all at home admittedly. The excellent win against Argentina in the JWC was as pleasing as it was unexpected, the first two matches against New Zealand and Ireland had been very disappointing.