Ireland face stiffest of tests against class Canadian side in Belfast

Last week’s opener brought a come-from-behind rust-buster against the Scots in Cork. This second and last trial run isn’t so much as a step up as a minor leap of faith.

Ireland's Brittany Hogan. Pic: Ben Brady/Inpho

All warm-up games come with a health warning and Ireland’s meeting with Canada in Belfast will be no different. Whatever happens in what is now Affidea Stadium on Saturday, it will exist as little more than a footnote once the upcoming World Cup is put to bed.

That’s not to say that this doesn’t hold some interest.