Ireland Debuts with Crushing Victory over Japan in Women’s Rugby World Cup
In a match full of excitement and unexpected twists, Ireland began their participation in the Women’s Rugby World Cup with a resounding 42-14 victory over Japan. The match, played at Franklin’s Gardens stadium, demonstrated the determination and character of the Irish team against an opponent that did not give up easily.
Japan, ranked 11th in the world ranking, six positions below Ireland, put up a great fight. They managed to close the gap in the score, generating uncertainty on the field. However, Eve Higgins’ outstanding performance was key to the Irish victory. In a crucial moment of the match, when Japan was trying to close the score, Higgins intercepted a pass and ran the entire field to score a decisive try. This blow was difficult for Japan to assimilate, who could not recover. Ireland demonstrated their physical superiority and took advantage of Japan’s initial mistakes to take the lead. At five minutes, Amee-Leigh Costigan scored the first try for Ireland. Subsequently, Neve Jones extended the lead with a try after a maul. Japan responded valiantly, showing skill and athleticism. Haruka Hirotsu achieved a try that rewarded her efforts. However, Ireland regained momentum with scores from Costigan and Beibhinn Parsons, and then with Fiona Tuite, thanks to Higgins’ footwork. After the break, Japan scored another try through Masami Kawamura. Despite Japanese efforts, Higgins was once again the protagonist, scoring at a time when Ireland seemed to be in trouble. The match ended with a try from Enya Breen, solidifying the Irish victory.
