Ben Healy shows the Six Nations trophy to his parents Maria and Fergal. PHOTO: INPHO

Healy aiming to conquer the world

After being part of the fifth Ireland team to have ever completed a Grand Slam in the Six Nations last Friday night, Ben Healy is setting his sights on world championship glory later this summer.

Healy, from Rapla, Kilruane, started at out half in Ireland's 26-17 win over Wales in Colwyn Bay on Friday night which secured the first Grand Slam at under 20 level for the first time and only the fifth in all between the senior men's (3) and ladies (1) in the countries history.

After kicking sixteen points in the win over France the previous week which handed Ireland the championship, Healy converted two of Ireland's four tries in his 63 minutes on the field.

It has been a whirlwind time for the Munster Academy member who has been part of the Ireland squad throughout the campaign, but only featured for the first time against Italy in round 3. Healy was due to start from bench against France but an injury to Harry Byrne saw him come into the side at late notice and was hugely impressive. However, he was set to drop to the bench once again for the Grand Slam match but Byrne again cried off through injury before the start with Healy thrust into the fray, and while he was used to it, it is still particularly difficult for an out half.

It can be a little bit harder for an out half as they tend to run the week in training and they have a lot of responsibility for how the team is going to play,” Healy said.

However, there is a very good environment within the squad and we have a lot of faith in what we do.”

 

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