Beibhinn Parsons injects life into 'composed' Ireland’s World Cup dream

The UCD student scored the opening try and then beat seven defenders in the build up to Ireland's second

19 September 2021; Beibhinn Parsons of Ireland in action against Melissa Bettoni of Italy during the Rugby World Cup 2022 Europe Qualifying Tournament match between Italy and Ireland at Stadio Sergio Lanfranchi in Parma, Italy. Photo by Roberto Bregani/Sportsfile

Ireland captain Ciara Griffin said a much-improved defensive showing was the key to her side’s victory over Italy in this Rugby World Cup qualifier at Stadio Sergio Lanfranchi in Parma yesterday.

Following a shock defeat to Spain last Monday, Ireland were desperately seeking a win to keep themselves in the reckoning for next year’s delayed finals in New Zealand. While tries from Beibhinn Parsons and Amee-Leigh Murphy Crowe may have lain the foundation for victory on the scoreboard, Griffin insisted their work out of possession was every bit as important.