McWilliams backs Hogan to take chance against English

Dorothy Wall's absence offers an opportunity to someone else, the Ireland boss says.

Head Coach Greg McWilliams with Head of Athletic Performance Ed Slattery at Ireland training this week. Picture: INPHO/Ben Brady

Despite acknowledging how big a blow it is to be without the services of Dorothy Wall, Ireland women’s rugby head coach Greg McWilliams is confident that Brittany Hogan can seize upon an opportunity to impress in Saturday’s Six Nations Championship clash against England at Musgrave Park.

While Wall was hopeful of recovering from an ankle injury she sustained in last weekend’s 24-7 defeat to Italy in Parma, McWilliams revealed in a virtual press conference on Thursday that time just worked against her. The Tipperary native should still be in line to feature in the final round visit to Scotland, but Hogan’s 13 previous appearances in test rugby makes her a suitable replacement at blindside flanker.