JUST OVER 10 years on from Ireland’s famous 2014 World Cup win over New Zealand, they have another shock success to go with it. The teams met for just the third time on Sunday in Vancouver and Scott Bemand’s Ireland side delivered a brilliant upset victory that had strong echoes of 2014. “One thing we speak about, last time the Black Ferns met the Irish was in 2014 and we’re just ready to go and introduce ourselves,” said Kiwi skipper Kennedy Tukuafu ahead of this game.
Instead, it was this exciting young Irish side who introduced themselves on the global stage as their impressive rise continued in the WXV 1 competition. Similarly to their recent Test win over Australia in Belfast, Ireland were resilient, combative, clinical, physically powerful, and well-prepared for this clash with reigning world champions New Zealand. Collectively, Ireland looked well-coached again and while there were outstanding individual performances, the key is how Bemand’s side are harnessing the skills of players like Aoife Wafer by creating opportunities for them to shine.
Here, we dig into the keys behind an Ireland win that has rocked international rugby. Against a team as skilful and dangerous as New Zealand, it’s always likely there will be moments when you crack. While never accepting try concessions as inevitable, it’s vital to be able to bounce back without delay.
Wallow in self-pity and the Kiwis will finish the game as a contest in a flash. Bemand’s side showed great char.