Ireland secures a late victory over Scotland in a final-minute twist during a World Cup preparation match
Ireland Secures Dramatic 27-21 Victory Over Scotland in Women's Rugby World Cup Warm-up
In a thrilling encounter at Virgin Media Park in Cork, Ireland secured a hard-fought victory over Scotland in their Women's Rugby World Cup warm-up match. Despite Scotland's early dominance, Ireland staged a remarkable comeback to turn the match in their favour.
The match began with a slow start for Ireland, who seemed rusty in their first game of the season. Scotland, on the other hand, were sharper, playing their second game in a week. Scotland capitalised on their early momentum, scoring two tries through Lisa Thomson and Lucia Scott, with Thomson also converting both.
However, Ireland responded brilliantly. Sadhbh McGrath, Méabh Deely, Nancy McGillivray, Niamh O’Dowd, and Deirbhile Nic a Bháird all crossed the try line for Ireland, turning the match around. Nic a Bháird's try came from an advancing lineout maul, while O’Dowd grabbed a try after ripping possession out of Scottish hands. Enya Breen converted one try but missed two.
A key moment that altered the course of the game was a yellow card shown to a Scottish player around the 52nd minute, which Ireland capitalised on to gain an advantage. Notably, Ireland's captain Sam Monaghan returned from injury to lead the team, with head coach Scott Bemand fielding three debutants and welcoming back several players from long-term injuries.
The match saw the first international tries for Ireland's McGrath, O’Dowd, and McGillivray. Scotland's winger Coreen Grant was sinbinned for a deliberate knock-on. The final score was Ireland 27-21 Scotland.
Scotland's Lucia Scott and Lisa Thomson were instrumental in their team's early lead, but Ireland's resilience and adaptability under pressure were highlighted as they overcame the early deficit. Ireland's Emma Orr scored a try with 14 players on the field in their last play.
The match also marked the return of Scotland's captain Béibhinn Parsons and Emma Donaldson, who earned player-of-the-match honors in the match. Connacht flankers Ivana Kiripati and Ailish Quinn made their debuts for Ireland in the match.
Highlight videos capture the late drama and thrilling nature of Ireland’s comeback in this fixture. Ireland's next warm-up match will be against Canada, a tougher opposition that will provide a good test ahead of the Women's Rugby World Cup.
Sports enthusiasts who enjoyed the thrilling Women's Rugby World Cup warm-up between Ireland and Scotland may also find interest in the upcoming football match, as both teams will face each other in a friendly, set to showcase their skills in a different arena.
In light of their impressive comeback in the rugby game, Ireland's football team may aim to replicate that resilience and adaptability under pressure against Scotland, especially since they will be playing each other outside their respective primary sports.
