Irish women defeated by Wales

Ireland 10 Wales 19

Ireland women's team let an early lead slip in Dublin on Friday night as they lost to Wales on a score of 19-10.

The home team got off to a flying start with a brace of tries and as they led 10-3 things looked good for the Irish who were looking for a third home win of the tournament after victories over Scotland and England.

Ireland crashed over for their first try after just 14 minutes when prop Marie Barrett rose last after some strong pack play led again by the in-form Geri Healy. The try gave Ireland a 5-3 lead after the Wales fullback Non Evans had kicked an early penalty.

Once again Ireland put the pressure on up front as the half wore on and some hard driving yielded another try, this time from number 8 Joy Neville who returned to the side after a recent knee injury.

Wales clawed back into the game with two more penalties from the reliable Evans and her side then took a crucial lead before the break after winger Louise Rickard raced over for a converted try as her side took a decisive 16-10 lead.

Another Evans penalty in the second half made the game safe for the visitors who now face France next weekend where they will be hoping to nab second spot.

England look certain to repeat their title-winning of last year after they hammered Scotland yesterday. They host Ireland next weekend in Sunbury where they chase a second successive grand slam.

Ireland scorers: M Barrett 1 try, J Neville 1 try.

Wales scorers: N Evans 4 pens and 1 convertion, L Rickard 1 try.