MARK MCCALL MAY be the quiet leader but if you’re keen to tag someone in the Saracens set-up as a crucial but unsung influence, then performance director Philip Morrow is your man. Like McCall, Morrow is an Ulsterman.  He was previously the head of strength and conditioning for Ulster, then Ireland during the 2011 World … Continue reading "The unsung Irishman who has been at the heart of Saracens’ transformation"

CIAN KELLEHER’S RETURN to his native Leinster has been confirmed by the eastern province this afternoon, along with the announcement of 21 new senior contracts for next season. It was confirmed back in January that the 24-year-old winger would leave Connacht this summer, and now after three seasons in Galway, is making the switch back … Continue reading "Kelleher makes RDS return as Leinster confirm 21 new contracts"

Ireland 42 England 26 IT WAS NEVER straightforward, these high-octane tussles never are. But this Ireland U20 squad once again showed off their uncanny knack of finding a way – however improbable – to win. Craig Casey makes a burst in Santa Fe. Source: Pablo Gasparini/INPHO Beating England in today’s World Rugby U20 Championship opener … Continue reading "Ireland hit England for six to grab sensational victory in U20 World Cup opener"

THE WORLD CUP year may be seven and a half months old, but the international season in which it will culminate clanks into gear this weekend. Granted, it is set up to be a soft opening. Yet as the southern hemisphere heavyweights get strapped up for action, even the punches they are holding back will … Continue reading "Reece in the limelight as World Cup looms large over international rugby season kick-off"