The Irish backline also reflects a commitment to continuity, particularly in the pivotal half-back positions. Dannah O’Brien and Emily Lane retain their partnership from the Six Nations, a duo that grew in stature as the spring tournament progressed. O’Brien’s tactical kicking and Lane’s sharp distribution from the base of the ruck will be essential in navigating the challenges posed by a resilient United States defense.
In the midfield, the established pairing of Aoife Dalton and Eve Higgins continues. The chemistry between Dalton and Higgins has become a central component of Ireland’s offensive strategy, providing both defensive solidity in the 10-12 channel and a creative spark to release the outside backs. Their ability to read the game and exploit gaps in the defensive line will be a primary focus for the Irish coaching staff on Sunday.
The back three features a mix of tactical awareness and raw finishing ability. Stacey Flood starts at full-back, a role that demands high-level communication and a safe pair of hands under the high ball. On the wings, Ireland will look to the pace of Robyn O’Connor and Vicky Elmes Kinlan. O’Connor, in particular, enters the WXV series with high expectations following her breakout performances in this year’s Six Nations. Her ability to find the try line—highlighted by the two scores she registered during the spring—makes her a constant threat on the right wing.
Bemand has also named a potent bench, designed to maintain intensity in the final quarter of the match. The forward replacements include Neve Jones, Sadhbh McGrath, Eilis Cahill, Jane Clohessy, and Brittany Hogan. Hogan’s presence among the finishers is particularly noteworthy; she was a prolific scorer during the Six Nations, crossing the whitewash five times. Her ability to impact the game late on, whether as a carrier or a defensive specialist, provides Ireland with significant tactical flexibility. The backline cover is provided by Aoibheann Reilly, Anna McGann, and Niamh Gallagher, ensuring that the team remains balanced regardless of any mid-game tactical shifts or injuries.
The significance of Sunday’s match extends beyond the scoreboard. This fixture marks the first time a women’s rugby Test match will be played at Tallaght Stadium, the traditional home of League of Ireland football champions Shamrock Rovers. Moving the international side to a venue of this stature reflects the growing commercial and cultural footprint of women’s rugby in Ireland. It is a move intended to bring the game to new audiences and provide a high-quality environment for both players and supporters.
The clash with the United States is the first hurdle in a demanding WXV schedule for Bemand’s squad. Following the Dublin opener, Ireland will embark on a series of fixtures that will take them across the country and then to the southern hemisphere. They are scheduled to face Japan in a double-header, with matches set for Galway on September 27 and Cork on October 3. The first of these encounters will be an official WXV game, while the second provides further opportunity for squad rotation and development.
