Aotearoa Mata’u must be the best impact sub in women’s rugby.
Ireland Women were handed a 38-8 defeat by New Zealand at the UCD Bowl this afternoon and now they know what it takes to be the world’s best.
Tom Tierney’s side have now lost heavily to Canada and the ‘Black Ferns’ but they are blooding several players in preparation for a serious tilt at the 2017 Six Nations.
Their confidence will be hurt almost as much as their bodies and their bodies are going to hurt for a while yet.
Nothing summed up the encounter quite so much as this bullocking ball carry from replacement Kiwi back Aotearoa Mata’u.
Taking on an extremely high pass, Mata’u [wearing 24] set off and laid waste to several Irish players. It was something else.
Four tried, four failed.
The massive carry left defensive holes all over the Irish defence and Black Ferns outhalf Kelly Brazier made them pay, as only Kiwis can.
Ireland got over for a late try that was firmly in the consolation bracket.
Dick Clerkin makes his GAA Hour debut to talk about a wonderful career and argue passionately with Colm Parkinson over Sky Sports GAA. Subscribe here on iTunes.
