THERE WAS OFFALY and Limerick hurling interest in the Ireland U19 rugby side that lost out 18-9 against France this afternoon in Garryowne FC at Dooradoyle in Limerick.

UCD student Jack Regan, son of Offaly All-Ireland winning hurler Daithi, lined out for Ireland in the game after being capped at U18 level last year and captaining the Leinster U18′s in the interprovincial series.

Ireland's Jack Regan and Mickael Capelli of France Cathal Noonan / INPHO Cathal Noonan / INPHO / INPHO

Conor Fitzgerald from Ardscoil Rís in Limerick supplied all nine of Ireland’s points from the boot. He was part of the Limerick minor hurling team that reached the 2014 All-Ireland final, coming on as a sub in that final loss to Kilkenny.

Conor Fitzgerald kicks a penalty for Ireland Cathal Noonan / INPHO Cathal Noonan / INPHO / INPHO

Ireland eventually lost out in the match by nine points having trailed 10-6 at the interval. They will renew acquaintances with their French counterparts next Sunday 3 April at the same venue.