This is a magnificent achievement for the team and marks the development and dedication of this year’s squad.
Special mentions go to Olivia McKinley who was outstanding defensively, putting in some massive hits and driving Munster back on numerous occasions. She was rewarded in her efforts getting a try from a strong 5m carry. Olivia has had impressive performances throughout this interpro campaign, picking up two tries the week before against Leinster in Kingspan Stadium.
Erin McConalogue was another stand out performance; a great piece of footwork to beat the last defender off a scrum and her pace made sure no one stopped her crossing the whitewash right under the post. McConalogue scored a second time, coming from a great team effort in our 22 attack. Strong carries from the forwards in the middle opened up space out wide for Erin to get across the line on the wing.
Cara McLean built upon her stellar performance the week before here in Kingspan Stadium, and had another impactful display with big powerful carries and driving force. Caitlin Crowe and Amy McConkey were a brilliant centre-partnership, using footwork and pace to make line breaks, and great defensive work, shutting down Munster’s attacking threats.
Head coach, Becky Irvine remarked “It was great to get the win this weekend in Cork! We’ve had a tough few seasons results wise but the girls have worked incredibly hard throughout the programme this Summer, have backed their talent and displayed real potential. We’ve got more and more competitive each match, and have really reaped the rewards of all the hard work that has been put into our Women & Girls Pathway Programme over the last few seasons. The whole squad are really looking forward to our last game this weekend against Munster in the 3rd place play-off and there’s no doubt that it’s going to be another competitive match.”
Ulster go up against Munster again this weekend as they travel to Buccaneers RFC, Athlone for the 3rd place play-off.
