Ireland's Bemand Criticises USA Loss in WXV Opener

Ireland’s head coach, Scott Bemand, reflected on the team’s 3‑1 loss to the United States in the opening match of the WXV Global Series at Tallaght Stadium, describing the defeat as “a game we should have won.” The match, played on Saturday, saw the Irish side struggle to contain the American attack, with the U.S. scoring early and maintaining control throughout the contest. Bemand acknowledged that the team’s defensive lapses and missed opportunities were key factors in the loss.

The WXV Global Series is a new international women’s rugby competition that brings together the world’s top national teams in a multi‑stage tournament. Ireland entered the series as a strong contender, having finished the previous season’s championship in a respectable position. The defeat to the United States, a rising power in women’s rugby, has prompted a reassessment of tactics and squad selection as the Irish side prepares for its next fixture.

In the wake of the loss, Bemand emphasized the importance of learning from the experience and maintaining focus on the upcoming matches. He reiterated the team’s commitment to improving performance and expressed confidence that Ireland will rebound in the next round of the series.