PAINFUL EXIT FOR IRELAND

'Bite' incident makes turnaround defeat even tougher

- BY VIC MULLIGAN

IRELAND fell agonisingly short of a place in the last four of the Women's Rugby World Cup, throwing away a 13-O halftime lead to crash out 18-13 to France in their quarterfinal at Sandy Park.

But Ireland were left fuming after an alleged bite by French player Axelle Berthoumieu on Aoife Wafer was dismissed by officials.

Footage appeared to show back-rower Wafer complaining to the referee and gesturing to her arm after the incident but Ireland claim their protests were waved away.

Video suggested there was a legitimate claim to be investigated but nothing was done.

The outcome of that moment could have proved significant, with France eventually winning 18-13 to reach the semifinals.