Securing third place in this year’s Six Nations has seen Ireland qualify for the next World Cup in England. Their victory over Australia in Belfast followed by a remarkable win against World Champions, New Zealand, at the Vancouver WXV tournament, has demonstrated the clear progress the team has made.
Their defeat of the Black Ferns 29-27, aided by Dannah O’Brien’s last-minute conversion, ensured Ireland rose from seventh to sixth in the world rankings as of Monday. Subsequent to their 46-24 win over France, their upcoming opponents, Canada, advanced from third to second in the rankings.
It appears Ireland may have the chance of claiming victories over two consecutive second-place world teams; New Zealand, whom they defeated on Sunday, and Canada whom they will combat this weekend.
Under the leadership of coach Scott Bemand, appointed in July 2023, Ireland has made a tremendous leap from their humble 10th place ranking globally. These alterations have been nothing short of significant.
Assessing their performance, Bemand proudly communicated, post New Zealand match, their intent to be a challenging team to compete against. He acknowledged the improvements made on the pitch as well as the off-field development. An exemplary Irish set piece, with newly-bonded units performing effectively, attributable to several new coaching appointments made within the past year, has made a notable difference.
Joining the team are defence coach Hugh Hogan, forwards coach Alex Codling, and kicking coach Gareth Steenson, a former Irish Under 21 and Exeter Chiefs outhalf. Marie Louise Reilly, a previous women’s international, has also assumed a role within the squad. With a significant stride made in women’s rugby, Bemand maintains a focus on progression and believes in the team’s potential for further success.
Our team has made a significant investment in our pack. While we did want better results from our set piece against the tough New Zealand squad, we held our own and managed to pressure them in scrum. Also, our kicking game flourished which is an achievement that’s only possible with disciplined defence up the field.
We strategically put them in the positions we desired, a reflection of our diligent work. Notably, our performance can be credited to the spirited and tenacious defence from the girls, especially within our half. What truly kept us competitive was our passion, grit and uncompromising effort.
Having triumphed over the powerful Black Ferns, champions of six of the last seven World Cup competitions, we have certainly gained due respect. This victory holds us in good stead for the World Cup draw after the WXV in October, with other teams likely to view us as a formidable opponent
Likewise, Canada also has an ambitious outlook, having secured a commanding 46-24 victory over France in their first match. They view this win as a powerful leap towards achieving their aspiration of becoming world champions in Twickenham next year. Canadian captain, Tyson Beukeboom, expressed their intent to triumph at the World Cup while also acknowledging that there will be room for learning and growth.
Erin King, born in Australia, made an impactful contribution in the match with two tries, right after her tenure in the Irish Sevens team at the Olympic Games in August. King, alongside fellow Olympians Amee-Lee Murphy Crowe, Vicky Elmes Kinlan, Emily Lane and Stacy Flood, is spearheading the team’s evolving shape. While many of them haven’t played much on this stage, their Olympic and World series experience coupled with their skills are accelerating the team’s learning curve.
Also on the rise is flanker Aoife Wafer – the player of the match and a two-try scorer like King. Despite her newcomer status and only nine caps, her exceptional potential is undeniable. However, as a word of advice, Bemand warned that no lone player can carry the team; it’s a collective effort.
Across the team, there exists a wide array of remarkable talents indeed. It isn’t about highlighting individuals, but acknowledging the emergence of a few extraordinary players. The remaining team members are providing a conducive environment for these standouts to showcase their abilities, which is really what the essence of the game is.
As for the second round, our match with Canada is scheduled at the Langley Events Centre located in British Columbia. The event begins at 11.45pm by Irish standard time this forthcoming Saturday.