What a great game and what a stunning performance from both sides on the opening night of the 2017 Women’s Rugby World Cup.
Ireland bounced back from 10-7 behind to beat Australia 19-17 at the UCD Bowl in Dublin.
Tries from Larissa Muldoon, Ciara Griffin and Sophie Spence were crucial as Ireland stood up to an Aussie side that were fearsomely big. Just about every Irish player gave up height and weight to the Australians but no-one could match them for heart.
Each and every Irish player that featured did the jersey proud but, to us, three stood out as having excellent games.
Marie Louise Reilly
The Leinster lock was an utter nuisance to the Aussies at lineout time – stealing thrice and disrupting another couple – and she was fearless and committed in the loose.
Put in a full, 80-minute plus shift and was there scrapping away over loose balls or driving back yellow shirts as the clock wound down. Has been on the scene for years but will hopefully continue with this impressive form for the entire tournament.
Was named Player of the Match and there was not a single person disagreeing with the call.
Ashleigh Baxter
Converted from a back three player to a back row in the past six months. The Ulster star is five years in the Irish set-up now and has bulked to help give her a fighting chance in the pack, and at the breakdown.
While Claire Molloy and Heather O’Brien were notable for their bullish carries, Baxter was the breakdown menace that got under Australian skin. Made a series a big tackles in the second half as Ireland soaked up phase after phase and, for the most part, stood firm.
Another that was there at the death and flinging herself in harm’s way for Ireland’s cause.
Alison Miller
There are a lot of new faces in the Ireland squad ut Miller was another experienced head that came good. Did not get on the score-sheet but came damn close on a few occasions, most notably before Sophie Spence then finished off her hard with with the winning try.
Was up against the imposing Nareta Marsters then Samantha Treherne for the final 10 minutes when the fullback switched to the right wing. Did superbly in defence against both and was a constant out-ball for Ireland down the left, invariably gaining metres.
#WRWC2017 Alison Miller has ridiculous pace and power!
— Seán Mac Giolla-Riabhaigh (@MonsieurGray_) August 9, 2017
Come into midfield looking for work and was dogged around the breakdown. Flopped on her back at the final whistle – completely spent – and was embraced by teammates that ran to her to celebrate. That action tells you a lot about how much her contribution was valued.
