Ciara Griffin: To continue shaking off 'noble losers' tag, Ireland must cut out errors

Scott Bemand was clear in his post-game comments: Ireland are determined not to be seen as “noble losers.” They no longer consider it a success simply to challenge the top-tier teams — they are focused on beating them. I admire this shift in mindset within the squad and the high standards they are setting for themselves.

However, Ireland’s biggest hurdle was their own mistakes, with a staggering 32 handling errors and 20 turnovers conceded. No matter how talented or motivated a team is, such mistakes are simply too costly to overcome in a close fixture.

Italy delivered their best result against England last weekend, despite a 38–5 defeat. The Italians showcased impressive attacking sequences, consistently bringing the ball to the gain line during counterattacks. They played with width and speed, utilising multiple running options off both 9 and 10. Their use of dummy lines disrupted the Red Roses’ defence, forcing them into scramble mode on several occasions.

Defensively, Italy were solid despite conceding 38 points. They executed effective double hits but, unlike Ireland — who focused on predominantly resetting their defensive line — they contested every breakdown.

This forced England to commit extra players to secure possession, a smart but physically demanding strategy. By disrupting England’s attacking structure and breaking up their pods of three, Italy made it significantly easier to isolate and tackle individual players rather than dealing with a fully supported attacking pod. This tactical awareness reflected Italy’s high rugby IQ, expected from experienced players like Rigoni, Steffan, and Madia.

Italy’s defensive resilience was particularly evident in the second half, where they limited England to just five points and frustrated their key playmakers. The backline, led by Alyssa D’Inca and Aura Muzzo, pressed high in defence, putting immense pressure on England’s attacking threats, Claudia MacDonald and Mia Venner. This defensive intensity is likely to be a key factor again as they aim to neutralize Ireland’s Costigan and McGann.

For Ireland, managing the breakdown will be crucial. They must secure possession quickly and close the gap between ball carriers and support players. Last week, Ireland left too much space between the carrier and the first arrival, leading to four turnovers — an area Italy will no doubt look to exploit. The Italians will take great confidence from their ability to disrupt England’s breakdown, having forced five turnovers against the Red Roses.

Ireland showed real attacking promise at times with over 400m gained and three try’s scored. They will need to flatten up their second phase of attack if they want to sit down the Italian defence. Ireland’s ‘back door’ option set too deep which allowed France to rush up and close down the second line of attack easily. Ireland will also need to reduce the aimless kicking which cost them large amounts of field position last weekend. Ireland have very strong aerial players in the form of King, Costigan and McGann. Players who should be utilised in challenging and contesting high balls from open play and kick offs.

Looking ahead, Scotland face a formidable test against France at Stade Marcel-Deflandre, La Rochelle. Scotland’s preparation will need to address the multifaceted threats posed by the French side.

Key to their strategy will be neutralising France’s attacking prowess, marshalled by the talismanic Pauline Bourdon-Sansus and Carla Arbez, while capitalising on any defensive lapses. Players like Francesca McGhie and Helen Nelson, identified as pivotal figures for Scotland, will be instrumental in both defensive solidity and offensive creativity. Nelson was Scotland’s top tackler with 11 completed tackles and 9 points secured from the boot. Scotland are known for their solid set piece execution and dominance — an area they will surely focus on after seeing the two try return Ireland got from lineout mauls against France.

This fixture also carries significant implications for the tournament standings. A victory for Scotland could propel them into contention for a top-three finish, while a win for France would bolster their campaign to dethrone England.

Wales host England at Cardiff’s Principality Stadium. This fixture has garnered significant attention, with over 1,000 tickets sold within the first five hours, reflecting the growing enthusiasm for women’s rugby in Wales.

England, the world’s top-ranked team, enter the match with a formidable record, having secured 29 consecutive Six Nations victories since their last defeat in March 2018. Their dominance includes six successive Grand Slam titles, underscoring their consistent excellence in the tournament.

Conversely, Wales have faced challenges, enduring a 17-match losing streak, highlighted by a recent 24 -21 defeat to Scotland. Wales showed marked improvement in this fixture and secured a much valued losing bonus point. It was a positive team performance and highlighted the impact new head coach Sean Lynn has had within the squad.

In their previous eight encounters over the past decade, England has emerged victorious each time, highlighting their historical dominance in this fixture.

England’s success is built on a robust forward pack and a dynamic backline, effectively blending power and speed. Their set-piece efficiency provides a solid platform for launching blistering attacks. Wales will need to disrupt England’s rhythm by relentlessly contesting breakdowns and maintaining defensive integrity to withstand England’s multi layered attacking plays.

While England enter the match as clear favourites, the passionate home crowd at Principality Stadium and Wales’ determination to overturn their recent form could still see for a compelling contest. Wales will need to execute a near-flawless game plan, have a solid defensive wall and capitalise on any scoring opportunities to prevent a cricket score line and challenge England’s supremacy in the Women’s Six Nations.