Injured Dolo ruled out of clash with France

OLD BELVEDERE prop Magali Dolo has been ruled out of the Ireland Women’s side for tonight’s Six Nations championship game against France at Thomond Park (6.30pm) with a shoulder injury.

She will be replaced by replaced by Cooke's Gillian McAllister. There is also a doubt over Jean Lonergan, who is struggling with a knee injury.

She faces a late fitness test, with Fiona Coughlan of Bohemians on standby to replace the Shannon hooker if the results are negative.

Says flanker Fiona Steed: "France are good, let's be serious. The last time we played them at home, two years ago, it was 53-0 up in Clontarf, but we've improved enormously since then, as have our skill levels.

"Every year there's been progress. When I started playing, I wondered if I was good enough. Now, everyone is good enough."

Adds winger Amanda Greensmith: "It is so much hard work but it's rewarding as well. We all appreciate where we are, what we're doing.

"I don't think one of us would swap it for anything. We don't have to be here but every one of us has a passion for rugby.

"We're here because we want to be here, put in the effort because we want to do our best. It would be great to get more recognition, even to turn professional, but money doesn't do it.

"When it comes down to the last 10 minutes of a big game and you're tired, really under pressure, no amount of money or perks will keep you going it has to be something that comes from inside you."

IRELAND: Sarah Jane Belton (UL Bohs); Nicki Milne (Worcester), Suzanne Fleming capt (Cooke), Patrique Kelly (UL Bohemians), Lynne Cantwell (UL Bohs); Joanne O'Sullivan (Nottingham), Louise Beamish (UL Bohs); Gillian McAllister (Cooke), Jean Lonergan (Shannon), Edel Coen (Highfield); Rosie Foley (Shannon), Anne Marie McAllister (Shannon); Rachel Boyd (Cooke), Fiona Steed (Shannon), Joy Neville (Shannon).

Replacements: Serena Stirling (Cooke), Fiona Coughlan (UL Bohemians), Jen Leacy (Blackrock), Rachel Reid (Cooke), Lesley Coulter (Cooke), Amanda Greensmith (Shannon), Nuala NiChadhain (Galwegians).