Eve Higgins scored the winning point for her side as Ireland endured a tough test of strength to start their World Cup campaign with a comfortable 42-14 win over Japan.
The Japanese, ranked 11th in the world and six places behind their opponents, put up a fierce fight at Franklin's Gardens as they tried to close the gap after falling behind 28-14.
At a key moment in the match, when the opponent's attack seemed dangerous, center Higgins made an interception and covered the entire distance of the field for the coveted points. This episode became a turning point for Japan, which was never able to recover.
The green jerseys showed character against their tough Group C opponents, showing superior physical fitness. Early errors held them back a little until Amy-Lee Costigan opened the scoring in the fifth minute.
Using their physical advantage, the Irish gradually increased the pressure, which resulted in a spectacular touchdown from Neve Jones after a series of powerful runs.
However, the Japanese athletes managed to seize the initiative with technical skill and agility. A well-executed strike from Haruka Hirotsu near the goal was the reward for their tenacity in the first half.
The Irish counterattack was swift, with flanks Costigan and Beibhinn Parsons combining effectively to score, and Fiona Tuite making expert use of Higgins's speedy run through the centre of the pitch.
After the break, the Japanese briefly revived the game when flanker Masami Kawamura organized a dangerous combination, but the Greens' defense took control of the situation again.
The most spectacular episode of the Japanese team Sakura Fifteen, built on speed and precise passes, almost brought them points, but Higgins at the decisive moment crossed their hopes with a counterattack across the entire field.
The loss was a bitter disappointment for Japan, who, in front of a neutral crowd at Franklin's Gardens, squandered their chances, allowing reserve Enya Breen to score the final touchdown that sealed the victory for the Irish.
Sourse: breakingnews.ie
