Ireland name European Cup squad

Ireland coach Andy Kelly has announced his 20-man squad for the end of season European Cup.

Five players from the burgeoning domestic competition are included and all are expected to play at some stage in matches at home to Serbia and against Wales in the group stage.

Stand off Tim Bergin is Portlaoise–based Laois Panthers’ first full international in a squad that has been affected by injuries; the likes of Sean Gleeson, Gareth Haggerty and Eamon O’Carroll the latest to be ruled out.

Scott Grix continues to captain the side after his terrific performances in last autumn’s World Cup and there are first call ups for props Ryan Boyle and Luke Ambler along with Warrington’s Challenge Cup winning back rower Tyrone McCarthy.

Squad: Scott Grix (Wakefield), Bob Beswick (Halifax), Liam Harrison (Barrow), Karl Fitzpatrick (Salford), Liam Finn (Dewsbury), Luke Ambler (Leeds), Marcus St Hilaire (Oldham), Pat Richards, Michael McIllorum (both Wigan), Tyrone McCarthy (Warrington), Jason Golden (Harlequins), Dave Allen (Oldham), Sean Hesketh (York), Ryan Boyle (Castleford), John Coleman (Dublin City Exiles), Brendan Guilfoyle (Treaty City Titans), Paddy Barcoe (Carlow Crusaders), Tim Bergin (Laois Panthers), Stevie Gibbons (Carlow Crusaders)

Round 1

Saturday 17/10/09, Stadio Del Plebiscito, Padova – Italy V Scotland – KO: 15.00
Sunday 18/10/09, Tullamore RUFC, Tullamore – Ireland V Serbia – KO: 14.30

Round 2

Saturday 24/10/09, Tripoli Olympic Stadium, Tripoli – Lebanon V Italy – KO: 20.000
Sunday 25/10/09, FK Smedervo Stadium, Smederevo – Serbia V Wales – KO: 14.00

Round 3

Sunday 1/11/09, Hughenden, Glasgow – Scotland V Lebanon – KO: 15.00
Sunday 1/11/09, Pontypridd RUFC, Pontypridd – Wales V Ireland – KO: 17.00

FINALS DAY:
Sunday 08/11/09, Celtic Crusaders RL, Brewery Field, Bridgend,
3rd v 3rd KO: 11.00
2nd v 2nd KO: 13.30
1st v 1st KO: 16.00