Ireland stunned world champions New Zealand 29-27 to produce an upset in their opening WXV1 match in Vancouver.
Replacement Erin King grabbed her second try to level the scores in the last minute, outside-half Dannah O’Brien managed a successful conversion.
New Zealand, had the bulk of possession throughout the game and had three tries ruled out by the TMO, but Ireland stood firm and seized their chances to run in five tries.
Ireland VS New Zealand
Hooker Atlanta Lolohea had ensured New Zealand made a fast start, grabbing the opening score after nine minutes.
Renee Holmes added the conversion and was on target again with a penalty after the Ireland flanker Aoife Wafer had gone over for the first of her two tries.
World Rugby Women’s WXV1 Round 1, BC Place, Vancouver, Canada 29/9/2024
New Zealand vs Ireland
Ireland’s Erin King celebrates scoring the winning try
Mandatory Credit ©INPHO/Travis Prior
Wafer touched down again just after the half-hour, Gloucester-Hartpury hooker Neve Jones also crossing before the break as Ireland opened a surprise 17-10 lead.
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The world champions were level at the break after wing Katelyn Vaha’akolo scored at the end of the half with Holmes adding the conversion.
Holmes put New Zealand back in front with a penalty just before the hour, but that was all they could manage with Irish prop Niamh O’Dowd in the sin bin.
Eimear Considine, Erin King and Fiona Tuite celebrate after the game/ photo: Ireland Rugby Union
King’s first try put Ireland back ahead, but thoughts of a shock result appeared to have been ended when Mererangi Paul rounded off a sweeping move, Holmes adding her third conversion for a five-point lead.
But after relentless late pressure, King powered over for her second to set up O’Brien’s clinching goal-kick.
Ireland will face hosts Canada in their next game on Saturday.
