LLANDOVERY’S Josh Morse made his first start for Wales U20s as Richard Whiffin’s side fell to a 43-8 loss against Ireland.

Morse is currently involved in the Scarlets set up, but the 19-year-old loosehead prop previously played at youth level in Llandovery before moving to Ammanford and, at the age of 18, played for Llandeilo.

Head coach Whiffin made three charges to the Wales team for the trip to Cork, with former Ysgol Gyfun Ystalyfera pupil and Cwmtwrch RFC number eight Morgan Morse being rested.

Speaking about Morse, who scored a try in the win against Scotland and has played eight games for Ospreys this season, Whiffin said: “Looking at what is best for Morgan’s long-term development along with the high volume of rugby he has already played this season we have planned, along with the Ospreys, for him to have a break.

“This will enable him the best opportunity to be in peak condition to perform for both us and the Ospreys for the remainder of season and into the summer.”

The defeat in Ireland was Wales’ second successive defeat in the U20s Six Nations.

Three of the home tries came from hookers Henry Walker and his replacement Danny Sheahan – who scored twice, while centre Hugh Gavin, back row man Sean Edogbo and full back Ben O’Connor grabbing the others.

Wales’ only try came from scrum half Ieuan Davies as he raced 25 metres to claim a superb counterattack try after the break, with Ireland having led 17-3 at half time.

Harri Ford gathered as Ireland cleared deep out of their 22. He moved infield before cutting back to the narrow side and beating three men in a brace run.

He found Davies on hand inside him and his pass broke the last line of defence.

The visitors lost hooker Harry Thomas to the sin-bin for a no-arms tackle early in the game and then his replacement, Evan Wood, picked up another yellow card 15 minutes from time.

The Welsh front row found themselves under pressure, with Ireland dominating possession and territory as they made it three out of three.

Wales conceded 14 penalties to add to the two yellow cards, while Ireland gave away only five, and the visitors won just 63 per cent of their own lineouts as the pressure mounted.

There were promising signs in attack from Harri Ackerman’s Welsh side, but they weren’t able to find a gap to get the scores they needed.

Wales outside half Harri Wilde had kicked a first-half penalty, while his opposite number Jack Murphy did the same and added two conversions as he picked up 11 points on the night.

Pontarddulais tighthead prop Kian Hire was brought off the bench just after half-time, while former Ysgol y Preseli student Macs Page came on in the 54th minute.

Wales now have to welcome France and Italy to the Arms Park to complete their Championship.