Ireland Wolfhounds fell short in tonight's match against England's Saxons in Cork.

The visiting team scored two tries to secure a 18-9 victory ahead of next week's Six Nations opener for Ireland against Italy.

The Wolfhounds suffered a blow just before kick-off when Luke Fitzgerald was ruled out of the game with a stomach bug, which meant Craig Gilroy was handed a start on the wing with Andrew Conway promoted to the bench.

In his first start in an Ireland jersey in 14 months, former European Player of the Year, Sean O'Brien made a strong start for the home side and lasted 50 minutes before being substituted.

But there was as an early setback for Ireland when Fergus McFadden came off through injury.

The Saxons scored an early try through Henry Slade, who then kicked two further penalties by half-time.

Ian Madigan bounced back from disappointing kicking for Leinster last weekend, to convert three penalties.

With the Wolfhounds within two points, England stretched their lead with a late try in the corner from Christian Wade.