Ireland began their Women’s Rugby World Cup campaign in style with a six-try, bonus-point victory over Japan at Franklin’s Gardens, Northampton.
Amee-Leigh Costigan, Neve Jones, Beibhinn Parsons, and Fiona Tuite all crossed in the first half to secure the bonus point before Eve Higgins and Enya Breen added further tries after the break. Fly-half Dannah O’Brien converted all six scores.
Japan responded with a try in each half through Haruka Hirotsu and Masami Kawamura, but Ireland’s dominance never wavered despite losing Linda Djougang to a late yellow card.
The Irish side, who missed the last World Cup, made a blistering start with two tries inside 10 minutes and controlled proceedings through accurate kicking and clinical finishing.
Parsons showcased her pace with a superb solo score, while Higgins’ length-of-the-field effort after intercepting a Japanese attack killed off any hopes of a comeback.
Replacement Breen sealed the result with Ireland’s sixth try as tired legs on both sides opened up the game.
The 46-14 win underlined Ireland’s intent in Pool C, setting up a clash with Spain next Sunday before a likely pool decider against defending champions New Zealand.
