The eagerly awaited final round of the Women’s Six Nations is approaching, and the outcome is uncertain. France is determined to halt the Red Roses’ progress, Wales is seeking their first win, and Ireland is looking to recover from a devastating loss, making for an exciting Super Saturday.
The tournament has been full of surprises, with notable shifts in form and performance from various teams. Scotland has emerged as a dominant force in the lower tier of the table, while Wales has struggled. Meanwhile, England continues to demonstrate an impressive level of skill and determination, despite being the reigning champions for the past five tournaments.
As a supporter of the Irish team, I have found this year’s tournament particularly enjoyable for several reasons. From the performances of young players fighting to make their mark, to the return of talented individuals like Cliodhna Moloney and Enya Breen, there is a refreshing sense of progress and change under Ireland’s new management.
One of the most significant reasons for satisfaction has been the increased focus on the sport of rugby itself. In previous years, discussions about women’s rugby in Ireland had been overshadowed by governance, rights, and other issues. It’s been a welcome change to see the spotlight shifting back onto the game, with an emphasis on scrums, lineouts, player contributions, and the sheer joy of the sport.
However, Ireland’s recent devastating loss to England, where they conceded 88 points, has dampened the spirits of many supporters, including myself. The players themselves admitted to feeling overwhelmed by the occasion, and it’s clear that it will take time for the team to recover from such a significant defeat.
The dominance of teams like England raises legitimate concerns about the inequality in the tournament and the overall impact it may have on other nations’ participation and fan base. However, I firmly believe there is still a purpose to it all – the driving force of progress. Every individual – whether player, supporter, or governing body – has a role to play in contributing to the growth of the sport, and we must continue to work towards that common goal.
It is noteworthy that, despite their previous efforts to professionalise their program, Wales are in contention for the Wooden Spoon this weekend. This serves as a reminder that throwing money at a problem does not necessarily equate to a solution. In contrast, the RFU’s forward-thinking approach in designing a domestic league around their professional program has yielded positive results, setting a wonderful example for the sport.
Looking ahead, I am excited for the upcoming All-Ireland League finals, taking place at the Aviva Stadium in Dublin. This fixture has historically been a momentous occasion for the women’s game, offering players the opportunity to showcase their talents on the esteemed grounds of Irish rugby.
While there is still progress to be made in establishing a domestic league akin to the RFU’s in Ireland, I remain hopeful for the future of the women’s game. As we gear up for the conclusion of the Women’s Six Nations and the upcoming All-Ireland League finals, it’s a time of both reflection and anticipation for the sport we all hold dear.