Coghlan: 'Scott has a huge role now in that and in the future direction of where the women’s game in Ireland goes'

Last season’s wooden spoon resulted in Ireland being relegated to Tier 3 of women’s Test rugby but Fiona Coghlan recognised the positive impact of winning that level’s new WXV competition last autumn, heading into this season’s championship.

REBOUND: Energia ambassador and former Irish Rugby International, Fiona Coghlan was speaking at the launch of #HalfAFan. As proud partner of Ireland Men’s and Women’s rugby teams, Energia understands that being a partner to both teams means showing support for both - so don't just be #HalfAFan. Pic: ©INPHO/Tom Maher

Grand Slam-winning Ireland captain Fiona Coghlan is backing Scott Bemand’s team to continue their rebound from last season’s Six Nations wooden spoon with three homes wins the target for the 2024 championship.

The 2013 skipper believes it will take a couple more years for Ireland to get back to the heights of the team she captained to Six Nations success that year as well as historic first wins over England and New Zealand but she believes the appointment of former English attack coach is already reaping dividends.