IRELAND READY TO ROCK THE FRENCH

IRELAND'S women face France in Belfast on Saturday in their opening 2025 Six Nations encounter — and hopes are high that they can pull off a shock win.

- DEREK FOLEY

After all, the Girls in Green beat New Zealand in their WXV1 match in Vancouver in September.

France finished second ahead of Ireland's third last term, which makes them a legitimate target, says defence coach Hugh Hogan.

“Overall, they've got some world-class athletes, they've got some bigger players, a good offloading game.

“They've got threats across the pitch, probably more so than any of the other nations.”

Ireland are hoping their mixture of exciting newcomers, like former Sevens star Erin King and Fiona Tuite, and experienced heads, such as Linda Djougang and Neve Jones, can gel.

“It's been huge getting Erin in, it's been about getting game time for her,” says Hogan.