Ireland U20s defeated by New Zealand in play-off

Peter Dooley on the attack for Ireland

Ireland U20s were beaten 45-23 by New Zealand in the third/fourth place play-off at the Junior World Championship.

The Irish led 23-21 at half-time in Eden Park thanks to a penalty try, a touchdown from Oisin Hefferman and 13 points from the boot of Ross Byrne.

New Zealand fought back in the second with James Tucker, Mitchell Drummond, Richard Mo'unga and Lachlan Boshier scoring tries for the hosts.

Ireland lost 42-15 to eventual winners England in their Auckland semi-final.