The Daily Star Ireland
Ireland confirmed their place in the quarter-finals of the Women’s Rugby World Cup with a game still to play after a high-scoring 43-29 victory over Spain in Northampton. Scott Bemand’s team not only secured back-to-back bonus-point wins but also set a new national record for the most points scored in a World Cup match, surpassing their previous tally against Japan by a single point.
While the result means Ireland have safely advanced from their pool, questions remain about whether this performance will be enough against defending champions New Zealand in Brighton next week. Defensively, Ireland looked fragile, conceding five tries as Spain capitalised almost every time they reached the 22.
Fast Start, but Defensive Lapses
Ireland once again began brightly, echoing their blistering opening against Japan. Dannah O’Brien’s tactical kicking put Spain under pressure early, and within six minutes she had crossed for the first try after a neat attacking sequence, converting her own score for a 7-0 lead.
From there, Amee-Leigh Costigan, Eve Higgins, and Anna McGann all added tries before halftime, ensuring the bonus point was wrapped up by the break. Ireland’s scrum dominance, particularly through Linda Djougang, created a solid platform for much of this early success.
However, Spain struck back impressively. Claudia Perez, Marieta Roman, and Claudia Pena all crossed the line, punishing Ireland’s lapses in discipline and capitalising on penalties to gain territory. To make matters worse for Ireland, co-captain Sam Monaghan was forced off with an injury following a heavy collision, leaving Bemand with an additional concern ahead of their toughest pool clash.
Second-Half Insurance Tries
After leading 24-12 at halftime, Ireland’s nerves were tested when Spain cut the deficit to just seven points early in the second half. Grace Moore then steadied the ship with two tries in quick succession, showcasing her physicality close to the line. McGann later completed her brace in the 70th minute to finally shut the door on any Spanish comeback.
Despite the attacking flair, Ireland’s inability to consistently stop Spain’s powerful forwards in close quarters highlighted a defensive vulnerability that stronger opponents will be quick to exploit. Spain managed five tries in total, including a late effort from Cristina Blanco, in what became one of the most open games of the tournament so far.
Looking Ahead to the Black Ferns
Ireland’s qualification with a match to spare is an achievement in itself, but their performance left plenty for the coaching team to mull over. Beating Spain and Japan secured progression, yet New Zealand, the reigning champions, present a vastly different challenge. Defensive organisation and discipline will need to improve significantly if Ireland are to have any chance of topping the group.
The potential absence of Monaghan only adds to the uncertainty. As a key leader and lineout presence, her fitness could be crucial in a high-stakes clash against the Black Ferns.
Still, Ireland’s attacking rhythm, led by O’Brien’s kicking game and a ruthless conversion of opportunities, shows they have the weapons to trouble any opponent. Seven tries and another record-breaking points tally will give the squad confidence heading into their toughest test yet.
