16/08/2026
After two days of action at the Junior Euros in Coventry, the Buccs players have been right in the thick of the action.
Niamh Purtill's Mixed 18s have had a storming two days with four victories over Scotland, Belgium, Cayman Islands and Lebanon qualifying them for the semi-finals. Niamh scored crucial tries against Belgium and Lebanon. She has also become something of a star with the Next Gen commentators praising her defence and athleticism during the live broadcast of the Cayman Islands game. The MX18s face Belgium again at 8:55am in what will be a very tight Semi-Final. This game is live on the internationaltouch YouTube channel so be sure to tune in.
The Mixed 20s were heavily fancied to do well before the tournament and they have justified this by qualifying for the final against England with two wins over both Scotland and England Lions. Unfortunately for Buccaneers Aoibhín Tynan, she suffered an injury in the very first game which puts her out of the tournament. Best wishes to her for a full recovery.
The Mixed 20s play in the final at 2:10pm which is also live streamed. John and Philip Finnan have both been in try scoring form, contributing 14 tries between them.
Rory Delaney and his Boys 15s team are in fourth place of 7 teams with a win over China and draws against Scotland and Portugal. They face Wales at 8:00am and need a result here to secure a place in the Bronze Medal match.
Oisín Moran and the Boys 18s team have qualified for a Semi-Final meeting with France at 8:00am tomorrow after two wins over Portugal with Oisín scoring tries against Wales and two against England Men's 20s.
Mollie and her Girls 18s team have faced a tough tournament with defeats against England, France and guest side Tanglin School from Singapore with Mollie scoring against Tanglin. They have improved significantly however on the second day and they now face Tanglin School again at 9:50am in their final game.
Best of luck to all our players on Finals Day. See https://www.internationaltouch.org/events/european-youth-touch-championships/2026/club:ireland/ for all match details and links to live streams.
Photos courtesy of Gavin Cullen Photography as well as Ian Moran, Denis Delaney and Sinéad Purtill.