The Irish women’s rugby team is preparing for their Six Nations clash against England at Twickenham this Saturday, with Aoife Wafer and Linda Djougang both making a comeback after sustaining injuries in their previous match against Wales. Head coach Scott Bemand is optimistic about the upcoming game and is also looking forward to the possibility of playing at the Aviva Stadium in the future.
Despite their injuries, both Wafer and Djougang are expected to be available for the upcoming match after recovering well during the week. Bemand, who has previously coached England’s Red Roses, is fully aware of the impressive track record of the English team, which has clinched six consecutive Six Nations titles and four Grand Slams. He acknowledges the tough challenge the Irish team will face in their upcoming game against the reigning champions at Twickenham.
With a win against Wales, Ireland is entering the match with a newfound sense of confidence, having secured their first victory in the Six Nations since 2022. However, England’s dominance in the current championship is undeniable, having scored 140 points and conceded just ten in their previous three games. The high expectations from the home crowd at Twickenham add another layer of pressure for the visiting Irish team, especially against such formidable opponents.
Bemand expressed excitement about the upcoming game and highlighted the importance of playing in such prestigious arenas. He also shared his aspirations for the Irish women’s rugby team to eventually have the opportunity to play at the Aviva Stadium, similar to the Republic of Ireland soccer team. He emphasized the positive impact such an event would have on the women’s game in Ireland, as it would provide the players with the experience of playing in front of a large, supportive crowd.
The upcoming clash between Ireland and England is not only a significant sporting event but also an opportunity for the Irish team to demonstrate their continued progress and growth in the world of women’s rugby. As they face tough competition from the dominant English side, the Irish players are ready to showcase their skills and resilience on the grand stage of Twickenham.
With the hopes of eventually playing at the Aviva Stadium, the Irish women’s rugby team is determined to make their mark in the sport and inspire future generations of female athletes. As they continue to strive for excellence, the prospect of playing in such iconic venues serves as a powerful motivation for the team and underscores the growing significance of women’s rugby in Ireland.