Team Update Ahead of Ireland vs Wales Match
Ireland head coach Scott Bemand has announced one change to his starting XV for the upcoming Women's Six Nations match against Wales, scheduled for Saturday at the Affidea Stadium.
Eve Higgins will start at centre, replacing Nancy McGillivray, who is not included in the matchday squad. This is the only change from the team that faced France two weeks ago in Clermont, where Ireland suffered a 26-7 defeat.
Player Involvement and Previous Performances
Higgins began the tournament in the starting lineup during the opening 33-12 loss to England. She subsequently appeared as a substitute in the commanding 57-20 victory over Italy and the defeat against France.
Following a break in the tournament schedule, Ireland aims to regain momentum and secure their second home win of the campaign.
Wales, on the other hand, are seeking their first victory of the tournament after losses to Scotland, France, and England.
Starting Lineup Details
The backline features Stacey Flood continuing at full-back, with Beibhinn Parsons positioned on the right wing and Robyn O'Connor on the left wing.
Aoife Dalton partners Higgins in the midfield. The half-back pairing remains unchanged with Dannah O'Brien and Emily Lane, who has contributed three try assists so far in the tournament.
The front row consists of Ellena Perry, Cliodhna Moloney-MacDonald, who scored Ireland's sole try against France, and Linda Djougang.
In the second row, Dorothy Wall will partner Fiona Tuite, who has played every minute of the tournament to date.
The back row includes Aoife Wafer, captain Erin King, and Brittany Hogan, all selected for the fourth consecutive game.
Bench and Debutant Information
Coach Bemand has adjusted the bench composition to a 6:2 forward-to-back split. Sadh McGrath and Grace Moore return to the replacements.
Additionally, 20-year-old full-back Niamh Gallagher is poised to make her international debut off the bench.
Confirmed Ireland Line-up
Starting XV: Flood; Parsons, Dalton, Higgins, O'Connor; O'Brien, Lane; Perry, Moloney-MacDonald, Djougang, Wall, Tuite, Hogan, King (capt), Wafer.
Replacements: Jones, McGrath, Cahill, Campbell, Monaghan, Moore, Whelan, Gallagher.
Additional coverage includes:
- Dalton feared for Ireland future after first Six Nations
- Ireland must be 'more clinical' in final two games
- Wales centre duo give Wales fitness boost against Ireland
