Ciara Griffin: Ireland need to match tenacity with a sharper attack in Wales

While many eyes will be drawn to Parma as Round 4 kicks off, Scott Bemand's side still have plenty to be play for in Newport 

RARING TO GO: Meabh Deely and Emily Lane lead the line during Ireland Women's Rugby Squad Training, IRFU High Performance Centre, Dublin this week. Pic: INPHO/Laszlo Geczo

As Round 4 of the Guinness Women’s Six Nations kicks off, eyes will turn to Parma, where Italy host a determined France side in what promises to be an entertaining clash of styles and intent.

A little closer to home — and a day later — there is still plenty of consequential rugby to be played too. Ireland travel to Newport to take on Wales in the final clash of the round, knowing a bonus-point victory could prove crucial in the tightening championship standings. Currently sitting third on points difference alone, Ireland will be eager to solidify their position heading into the decisive final weekend.