Women’s Rugby World Cup touches down in UCD

WOMEN’S Rugby World Cup 2017 got off to a flying start with 63 tries scored across the six matches in UCD on Wednesday.

Defending champions England kicked off the tournament with a 56-5 defeat of Spain at UCD Bowl, but their fellow title contenders Canada, New Zealand and France were equally impressive in overcoming debutants Hong Kong (98-0), Wales (44-12) and Japan (72-14) respectively over at Billings Park.

USA battled past an Italian side making their first World Cup appearance for 15 years 24-12, while hosts Ireland were involved in the closest match of the day as they sneaked past Australia 19-17 to the delight of the home supporters packed into UCD Bowl. 

This major event has been hailed as a world-class opportunity to highlight the UCD campus to an international audience.

“As the local TD, I am delighted that the pool stages of this major international sporting event will be taking place in my constituency,

? Deputy Josepha Madigan said.

“It is a great opportunity to showcase the world class sporting facilities in University College Dublin, and I want to extend a warm welcome to all the visiting teams.

“Our hosting of the Women’s Rugby World Cup highlights the great strides in women’s sport in this country. 

“Our ladies in green are one of the top teams in the world and I encourage everyone to show their support.

Senator Neale Richmond, a keen rugby player, said that the tournament provided a great opportunity for both the IRFU and the Irish Government to leave a real sporting legacy.

“So far, the reaction to this tournament coming to Ireland has been immense, with all group matches being held in UCD long sold out,

? he said.

“There is a real buzz across the whole country thanks to the performances of the Irish team.

?