Ireland’s Max Deegan named World U20s Best Player after tournament to remember

Fair play to the Leinster forward but Harry Mallinder must wonder what else he has to do.

Ireland were well beaten by England in the U20 World Rugby Championships in Manchester, this evening, to bring an unfortunate end to a tremendous journey. Nigel Carolan's side reached their first ever U20s final after fantastic victories over wales, New Zealand, Georgia and Argentina. Ultimately, the hosts had too much pace and power and they sealed an emphatic 45-21 win. https://twitter.com/SportsJOEdotie/status/746811046338367488 There was some consolation for Ireland as their impressive No.8 Max Deegan was named Player of the Tournament. The decision was announced at a closing ceremony for all the teams, following a full day of matches. https://twitter.com/WorldRugby/status/746817572453122048 The 19-year-old was unstoppable against the Welsh and 'The Baby Blacks' but found it tougher going against a fearsome English outfit. Still, he battled away until the very end and grabbed Ireland's final try. Next up for Deegan will be Year One in the Leinster Academy, where he will be joined by six of his Ireland teammates. As for Mallinder, he tore up the tournament and registered 25 points in the final, including two fine tries. Sometimes you eat the bear and sometimes, well, he eats you.