No Royal regrets for Monaghan despite rough start to Ireland career

Ireland rugby star Samantha Monaghan won an All-Ireland ladies football title with Meath U16

Spanish players celebrate after the World Cup win over Ireland

If there is an alternate reality out there somewhere then Samantha Monaghan is probably cradling an All-Ireland medal having helped the Meath ladies overcome the mighty Dubs in the All-Ireland final at Croke Park earlier this month.

Instead, she finds herself in Italy this week, reflecting on an Ireland debut against Spain that was spoiled by a yellow card and a shock World Cup qualifying loss that leaves them up against the black ball for the remainder of the tournament.