Ireland grind out hard-earned victory over South Africa in Cape Town
The Ireland women's rugby team secured a hard-fought victory against South Africa in the opening match of the WXV Global Series. Despite defensive challenges and a sinbinning for captain Erin King, Ireland managed to pull away in the second half.
Why it matters
This match is a significant milestone for women's international rugby as it marks the first Test between these two sides on South African soil.
Ireland ground out a hard-earned victory in their first women’s Test on South African soil, overcoming a spirited Springbok Women side to take a valuable win in the opening match of the WXV Global Series double-header at Athlone Stadium.
Scott Bemand’s side, ranked fifth in the world, eventually pulled clear of their 10th-ranked opponents after a pulsating first half in which both defences struggled to contain the opposition.
Ireland scored six tries overall, with Dannah O’Brien converting five, but South Africa’s five touchdowns ensured the contest remained competitive until the closing stages.
Captain Erin King was outstanding despite spending 10 minutes in the sinbin during the first half, while Ireland’s improved control after the interval proved decisive ahead of next Saturday’s rematch at the same venue, although Bemand and his players will take a close look at their defensive frailties over the coming days.
Also covering this story
One other newsroom covered this event. We read that version too.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in