Ireland boss Tom Tierney targeting second win over Australia

21 August 2017 06:39

Ireland will bid for a second win over Australia in two weeks to push closer to a fifth-placed finish at the Women's Rugby World Cup.

The tournament hosts must see off the Wallaroos for the second time in the tournament, to chase their highest-possible finish of fifth.

Head coach Tom Tierney has made three changes from the side that lost 21-5 to France for Tuesday's clash in Belfast.

Ireland beat Australia 19-17 in their opening match of the competition and are now hoping for a quick-fire repeat.

"We know what the Australians will bring to the game tomorrow, and we will have to be ready to match their physicality from the start," said boss Tierney.

"We've reviewed our own games and looked at areas where we can improve in both attack and defence.

"There is huge pride in this team and we're looking to finish this tournament with two performances."

Louise Galvin will make her first Test start on the right wing, while hooker Cliodhna Moloney and lock Ciara Rooney return to the tight-five.

Ireland women's team to play Australia in Belfast on Tuesday: H Tyrrell (Leinster), L Galvin (Munster), J Murphy (Leinster), S Naoupu (Harlequins), A Miller (Connacht), N Stapleton (Leinster), N Cronin (Munster), L Peat, C Moloney, A Egan, C Cooney, M Reilly (all Leinster), C Griffin (Munster), C Molloy (Bristol, capt), P Fitzpatrick (Leinster). Replacements: L Lyons (Munster), I Van Standen (Ulster), C O'Connor (Connacht), S Spence (Leinster), A Caplice (Munster), L Muldoon (Ulster), K Fitzhenry (Leinster), C McLaughlin (Ulster).

Source: PA