• Hosts hold on in thriller to secure 19-17 opening win • Wales up against it after losing 44-12 against New ZealandIreland held on to claim a nailbiting 19-17 opening win over Australia at the Women’s Rugby World Cup in Dublin. The replacements Ciara Griffin and Sophie Spence scored tries to put the hosts in a commanding position midway through the second half. Australia hit back with a late converted try by Hilisha Samoa, making it a tense final few minutes for the Irish. Kay Wilson leads England’s rout of Spain in Women’s Rugby World Cup Read moreWhen Wallaroos captain Shannon Parry crossed the line early in the second half Ireland were facing potential embarassment and they reached the hour mark trailing 10-7. Thomas’s second try, though, ensured some breathing space before the replacement lock Abby Gustaitis secured a five-point maximum, with Alev Kelter converting, before Elisa Giordano claimed a consolation score.

Source: The Guardian August 09, 2017 22:37 UTC