The year in numbers according to Derval O'Rourke

6-3 was the final score when Ireland beat Italy to clinch their first ever women’s Six Nations title.

On the way to their historic Six Nations crown, they smashed England 25-0. Considering before the game they had suffered 17 loses to England, it was a huge result. The Fiona Coghlan-captained team have made major improvements this year and put themselves in a great position coming into the 2014 season, one which will see them attempt to defend their Six Nations title before tackling the Rugby World Cup in France next summer.

Their success is a great boost for women’s sport at a time when participation levels are worrying.