Vera Pauw wary of granny rule opportunists ahead of World Cup

Saturday’s draw pitted the Girls in Green with the hosts, Olympic Gold Medallists Canada and African powerhouse Nigeria in Group B from July 20-31.

WARY: Ireland manager Vera Pauw. ©INPHO/Photosport/Alan Lee

Success breeds success but, for Vera Pauw, Ireland’s World Cup breakthrough has also triggered an upsurge in newly-discovered Irish prospects.

Much like when Jack Charlton’s three-tournament run between 1988 and 1994 generated unprecedented interest under the granny rule, Pauw’s email has been buzzing since they recently sealed a place at next year’s showpiece in Australia.