Japan frustrations show how far Ireland have come, insists Monaghan

No-one disputes the reality that Ireland will need to be better come the last pool game, against New Zealand in Brighton.

Ireland's Sam Monaghan celebrates with her family and friends after the game. Pic: Ben Brady/Inpho

Sam Monaghan was still getting back to her feet when Ireland left Japan for dust in their Rugby World Cup opener.

Up 28-7 at the break in Franklin’s Gardens, the Six Nations side conceded a second try soon after the restart and then looked to be on the brink of being dragged back into a one-score scrap with just under half an hour to go.