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Re-live the key moments as Aoife Wafer scores twice in Ireland’s triumphant match against Wales.
Wales, buoyed by a record-breaking points performance against England in their previous outing, traveled to Ireland with aspirations of building on recent strides in the Women’s Six Nations.
However, the tournament’s hiatus of two weeks seemingly hindered more than helped, as Wales appeared uninspired in their 33-12 defeat.
Similar to their matches against Scotland and France, Wales remained competitive until halftime, but Ireland’s third try proved decisive.
Wales could have entered the tunnel trailing by only 12-7, but a failure to clear the ball after the clock had expired gifted Ireland a final attacking opportunity.
“We discuss pivotal moments in championships, and that was one of them,” stated Wales captain Bethan Lewis.
“Putting ourselves on the back foot heading into halftime is frustrating. We need to tighten up on those aspects.”
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In contrast to their second-half showing against England, where they secured two late tries for a bonus point, Wales struggled to generate momentum after the break in Belfast.
Ireland dominated possession and territory, with Aoife Wafer, the previous year’s championship player, leading the charge.
The travelling fans’ sole consolation was a 78th-minute try by Jasmine Joyce, but it proved insufficient to prevent Wales from returning home empty-handed.
“We are ranked 12th in the world, and we played a team ranked 5th. It’s evident that when playing away from home, you must be far more clinical,” said Wales head coach Sean Lynn.
“We discussed in the huddle after the game the need to improve our composure and accuracy.”
“I wouldn’t say the girls’ heads dropped. They persevered and stuck to their processes, but Ireland retained possession exceptionally well.”
“The girls give their all on the field, and their upset after the game stems from their care and desire to win, making it tough.”
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Wales head coach Sean Lynn says his side are on an upward journey
Wales now face a nine-game tournament losing streak and have one final opportunity next Sunday to avoid a third consecutive wooden spoon in the Six Nations.
While a home match against Italy would be a targeted win for Lynn’s side, the Azzurri are brimming with confidence, having followed up a convincing victory over Scotland by scoring five tries in their defeat by England.
“We will come out firing. We are hurting and have more to offer. There are valuable lessons to be learned, and we hope to put on a good show next week,” said Lewis.
“The first two games at home were incredible, the support was incredible, and having that red wall in the stand will energize us.”