Ireland Debuts with Victory at the Women’s Rugby World Cup
Eve Higgins was the key figure in scoring a crucial try, leading Ireland to a 42-14 victory over Japan in the start of their participation in the World Cup.
Japan, ranked eleventh in the world, six places below Ireland, starred in an intense fight at Franklin’s Gardens stadium, seeking to reduce a 28-14 disadvantage.
Just when Japan seemed close to scoring again, Higgins intercepted a pass and ran the entire court to score. This blow was difficult for Japan to take, which failed to recover.
Ireland demonstrated their strength by overcoming a difficult Group C opponent, taking advantage of their physical superiority. Initial handling errors prevented them from taking the lead before Amee-Leigh Costigan’s try in the fifth minute.
Japan conceded ground in the contacts, and to demonstrate Ireland’s physical superiority, they scored a try after a maul, finished by Neve Jones.
The Japanese managed to get close, showing skill and athleticism with the ball, dominating some moments of the first half, with Haruka Hirotsu scoring near the try line.
Ireland reacted with attacks that allowed them to pull away on the scoreboard, with Costigan and Beibhinn Parsons combining for a dynamic try, and Fiona Tuite taking advantage of Higgins’ footwork in midfield.
Japan’s maul took control at the start of the second half, allowing Masami Kawamura to score, but another promising offensive ended against the strong Irish defense.
The best attack of the match came from Japan, using speed, agility and good handling, creating opportunities, until Higgins appeared at the crucial moment.
This setback was painful for Japan, who counted on the support of the public in Franklin’s Gardens, and conceded another try to Enya Breen, with Ireland finishing strongly.
