Sadhbh McGrath plays for Ireland as they lose out to France in Six Nations opener

Donegal’s Sadhbh McGrath made an appearance off the bench yesterday in the front row as Ireland began their Women's Guinness Six Nations journey with a 38-17 loss to France, yet they showcased significant improvement compared to their previous season's performance. 

The 19-year-old from Burt made her Irish debut last year when she started in the Six Nations against Wales and was hoping to make an impact yesterday as the squad were looking to turn a new leaf from a torrid 2023 year. 

Despite being outperformed by a formidable French side, Ireland demonstrated glimpses of potential, offering hope for their upcoming home fixture against Italy in what is head coach Scott Bemand’s inaugural championship season. 

And while Ireland had the potential to cause damage in the early stages, issues with the lineout resurfaced, and defensive lapses resulted in French tries during the first half. Ireland grappled with the exceptional prowess of scrum-half Pauline Bourdon Sansus, who not only scored the initial try but also facilitated the second. 

In the second half, the hosts secured three lineout-maul tries, firmly establishing their victory. However, late tries from Aoife Wafer and Aoife Dalton provided Ireland with some consolation amidst the defeat.