Women's Rugby World Cup: Ireland's journey 'still being written' after France defeat
Despite a quarter-final defeat by France at the Women's Rugby World Cup, Ireland coach Scott Bemand praises his young team's progress and looks ahead optimistically.
Key moments - missed try before half-time, lost line-out, and an unpunished incident - left Ireland wondering 'what if' after surrendering a 13-0 lead to lose 18 unanswered points in their quarter-final against France at Sandy Park.
Chasing a first win over France since 2017 and a first World Cup semi-final berth since 2014, Ireland fell short despite holding the advantage. Yet, having missed the previous tournament and struggled in the 2023 Six Nations, last month's performance marks significant progress.
Head coach Scott Bemand said, "I'm really proud of how far this group has come in two years. They aren't daunted by big occasions anymore - they thrive on them."
Under Bemand's guidance, Ireland secured World Cup qualification with a year to spare after finishing third in the 2024 Six Nations and notched wins over Australia and the Black Ferns. Centre Aoife Dalton described the side's improvement as "like chalk and cheese" compared to two years ago, although she admitted the loss "will hurt for a while."
The squad's youth is a strength: only two players in the matchday 23 are over 30, and several key performers are 22 or younger. Gloucester-Hartpury lock Sam Monaghan, one of the few with World Cup experience, added, "We're heartbroken but we'll rebuild and go again."
Looking ahead
The team returns to Six Nations action in 2026, hoping to capitalise on growing support, dubbed "the green wave," for a historic fixture at the Aviva Stadium. Bemand, on a three-year deal, hinted at his desire to stay beyond 2024: "The story's still being written. If I'm the right fit, I'd love to continue."
Ireland's quarter-final loss may sting, but a young side's rapid rise and renewed belief signal that their World Cup story is far from over.
This topic was reported by BBC Sport.
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