Ireland Outguns South Africa With Six Tries in Cape Town WXV Victory
Ireland defeated South Africa 40-27 at the Athlone Stadium in Cape Town on Saturday in the first of two WXV Global Series showdowns, securing a six-try victory in their first meeting in 20 years.
Athlone Stadium Battle Set Up by Six-Try Surge
The fixture marked only the second time in history that the two sides had met. The tourists carried a narrow 21-17 advantage into the interval before dominating the second half.
Linda Djougang crossed for two tries, while Aoife Dalton, Beibhinn Parsons, Jane Clohessy, and Erin King also added tries for Ireland. Dannah O’Brien contributed with the boot to solidify the margin.
South Africa struck first among the hosts when number eight Aseza Hele found a gap in the Irish line in the 20th minute. Vainah Ubisi added a second try shortly after, converted by Jakkie Cilliers, pushing the Springboks into a 12-5 lead.
Discipline tested the visitors early. Erin King received a yellow card for a high tackle, and later Eve Higgins was sent to the bin for an infringement. Despite the numerical disadvantages, Ireland maintained their attacking tempo.
Second-Half Response Seals the Victory
Ireland burst out of the traps after the break. Parsons galloped into space on the right wing to score, and by the 52nd minute, the visitors stretched their lead to 33-17 following King’s surging run.
South Africa attempted a late rally when Lerato Makua darted through to reduce the deficit. However, Djougang pounced for her second try of the match with seven minutes remaining to settle the nerves.
Alichia Arries scored a consolation try for South Africa at the death. The two teams will meet again at the same venue next Saturday to conclude the series.