Meath women in World Cup semi-final
The countdown is on for Ireland’s historic first appearance in the Women’s Rugby World Cup semi-final against England on Wednesday, 5.0 with the possibility that three Meath players will be involved in the match-day squad.
Philip Doyle’s team secured their place in the last four with a resounding 40-5 victory over Kazakhstan yesterday with Navan girl Jackie Shiels contributing 10 points to the victory.
Shiels, who plays her club rugby with Richmond, converted five tries. Sharon Lynch grabbed two touchdowns while Tania Rosser, Siobhan Fleming and Vikki McGinn also broke through for similar scores.
Shiels however, is likely to give way to Niamh Briggs for the semi-final which will be played in the Stad Jean-Bouin in Paris.
Marie Louise Reilly is certain to return to her familiar lock forward position while fellow Royal County-player Grace Davitt also looks odds on start in the centre.
Two years ago Ireland defeated England in Ashbourne on their way to the Six Nations Grand Slam although they lost to the same opposition in Twickenham earlier this year. The Irish game is live on Sky and TG4.
France play Canada in the other semi-final also on Wednesday, 7.45.
See video clip of try against Kazakhstan from TG4