WALES U20s geared up for their Six Nations clash with Italy at Parc Eirias in fine style thanks to a thrilling 41-38 win over Ireland.

The national side returned to winning ways following their defeat to England, and Jason Strange’s men will be looking to make it two wins in succession and three from four when they entertain the Italians on March 9.

The away side got off to a blistering start with two tries in the opening exchanges through scrum-half Harri Morgan and second row Max Williams, one of which was converted by Cai Evans.

Ireland fly-half Harry Byrne kicked a penalty to get his team on the scoreboard after 15 minutes, but the visitors extended their advantage soon after when James Botham crossed the white wash in his first international appearance since returning from injury. Evans added the extras.

This provoked a strong response from the hosts, who notched their first try on 35 minutes when Angus Curtis touched down.

After the break saw the Welsh side waste no time in making an impact thanks to a score from skipper Tommy Rockwell, but the home side replied almost instantly when Jack O’Sullivan surged over to reduce the arrears.

Botham then gave Wales some much-needed breathing space, poaching an overthrown Irish lineout ball in the home 22 to score his second try, but this was swiftly followed by O'Sullivan’s second try of the evening, and Byrne converted to narrow the gap.

A frantic period saw the visitors go over once again through outside centre Callum Carson which was converted by Evans, but a nervy end to proceedings was ensured when the Irish scored twice in quick succession to make things interesting heading into the closing stages.

The away side managed to hold firm in the face of some intense pressure to see out the game and claim a valuable triumph.