The Ireland 7s women's team have made history once more by reaching their first ever World Series final.
They defeated England 29-0 in the semi-final in Seville, after a near perfect all-round performance where they combined clinical attack with relentless defence.
Much like the celebrated men’s 7s duo of Kennedy and Conroy, the women have their own devastating pair in Aimee-Leigh Murphy Crowe and Beibhinn Parsons.
Both women got two tries each, with the electric Lucy Mulhall chipping in with a try and two conversions of her own.
Ireland were quick off the mark, scoring after two minutes through Murphy Crowe. Two minutes later Mulhall dotted down after excellent work from Eve Higgins.
Higgins bumping off people, Murphy Crowe with the pass out of the tackle, lovely try. #spain7s pic.twitter.com/lbv3JNQbHy
— Colmán Stanley (@ColmnStanley1) January 30, 2022
Ireland had to kick-off back to the English after each score but their relentless defence forced turnovers as England stuggled for any sort of foothold in the game.
The defining moment of the match came just before half-time. After Parsons was beaten on the outside by the English pace and a hand-off, a try for England looked certain. However, Parsons was not to be beaten and chased down her opponent just as she crossed the 22.
From the resulting ruck Ireland were able to win a penalty and take a heavy lead into the half-time break.
More Beibhinn Parsons. Massive chase down tackle and Ireland get the turnover. The moment of the game imo. #spain7s pic.twitter.com/C3w57zwbNr
— Colmán Stanley (@ColmnStanley1) January 30, 2022
The second half was much the same as the first, as Parsons continued her assault on the English defence, and Ireland’s scrum remained their most potent source of attack.
Parsons scored two magnificent tries that showcased her footwork and strength. The fact that she is still only 20 years old makes it all the more impressive.
Serious rucking by Mulhall to secure ball. Parsons does her thing from 40 metres out. pic.twitter.com/D42WIQacdR
— Colmán Stanley (@ColmnStanley1) January 30, 2022
Time to celebrate! 🎉
Beibhinn Parsons stretched to the line to make absolutely sure of @IrishRugby's place in their first ever Cup final@DHLrugby | #ImpactMoment pic.twitter.com/7qJ6iiig5v— World Rugby Sevens (@WorldRugby7s) January 30, 2022
Australis 7s defeated USA 7s 21-19 in the second semi-final setting up a clash with Ireland 7s at 18:56 Irish time this evening.
The games are streamed live on the HSBC 7s YouTube channel.
See Also: The Terraces Won't Forget: Tiernan O'Halloran
