24/08/2025 15:25
Ireland got their World Cup campaign off to a thunderous start with six-try demolition of a gutsy Japanese side at a bouncing Franklin's Gardens in Northampton. Eve Higgins' 53rd minute try was the pivotal moment in a match in which Ireland were, at times, pushed by a hard-working innovative Japan side. After taking a bow, they were roundly applauded at the end of the match, as a mellifluous rendition of Fields of Athenry rang out.