Béibhinn Parsons made her return to international rugby impossible to miss, scoring twice as Ireland Women edged Japan 31-24 at Dexcom Stadium. For the Galway winger, however, the biggest reward was being back with the group and representing Ireland in front of family and friends.
After an ankle injury delayed her season, Parsons was carefully managed by head coach Scott Bemand and did not feature in Ireland’s opening Vodafone WXV Series match against the USA. Her comeback in Galway proved timely, with the 24-year-old producing a powerful all-round performance in a hard-fought contest.
Ireland rugby comeback makes immediate impact
Parsons’ second try arrived in the 75th minute and gave Ireland crucial breathing room after Japan had pushed the hosts throughout the match. Her first appearance of the season ended with two tries, 155.2 metres gained from 14 carries, two line breaks, four defenders beaten and five successful tackles.
The statistics underline the importance of her return. Parsons brought pace and direct running to Ireland’s attack, while her finishing ability provided the cutting edge needed to settle a tight game. Her late score was less about celebration than relief, reflecting how closely Japan had challenged Ireland.
“It was a really tight game,” Parsons said afterwards, explaining that the final try felt like the moment Ireland had finally put the result beyond doubt.
A special homecoming in Galway
Dexcom Stadium has become a particularly productive venue for Parsons. Earlier in 2026, she scored three times in Ireland’s win over Italy at the ground. Her latest double means she has crossed the line five times in two Ireland appearances there this year.
The Ballinasloe native also scored for the Clovers in their Celtic Challenge semi-final victory over Gwalia Lightning at the same venue. With supporters, friends and relatives watching from the stands, playing at home carried an emotional significance beyond the result.
“It is just really special to be in Galway, and all my family be here,” Parsons said. “It’s just special to play at home.”
Parsons matches Alison Miller’s Ireland record
The two tries moved Parsons to 24 tries in 37 Test appearances, bringing her level with Alison Miller at the top of Ireland Women’s all-time try-scoring list.
Miller was an important influence on Parsons while she was developing as a player. The pair also shared a Connacht dressing room in 2019, giving Parsons the opportunity to learn directly from a player she had admired growing up.
Both wingers are known for their speed, athleticism and finishing instincts. Parsons’ latest achievement adds another chapter to a career that began remarkably early: she became Irish Rugby’s youngest senior international, male or female, at just 16.
Overcoming setbacks to return stronger
Parsons’ progress has not been straightforward. Two leg breaks in 2024 threatened her hopes of reaching the Rugby World Cup, but she recovered in time to play at last year’s tournament in England. She then delivered one of her strongest Guinness Women’s Six Nations campaigns, scoring four tries.
Her form has remained consistent across the past 14 months, with nine tries in nine Ireland appearances and five in seven matches for the Clovers in the Celtic Challenge. Injuries and Sevens commitments have limited her availability at times, but her latest performance showed why she remains such a significant part of Ireland’s plans.
What comes next for Ireland Women?
Parsons was quick to stress that Ireland still have areas to improve despite the victory. Japan exposed weaknesses and ensured the hosts had to fight until the closing stages, making the win valuable both for the result and the lessons it provides.
For Ireland’s coaching team, Parsons’ return offers an important attacking option as the autumn international window continues. For the winger herself, the focus is on building rhythm, contributing to the squad and improving the details of her game.
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The takeaway
Béibhinn Parsons’ return gave Ireland pace, experience and a decisive finishing threat, while her two tries in Galway moved her level with Alison Miller at the top of the country’s women’s try-scoring chart. The next challenge is turning this emotional homecoming into momentum for the remainder of Ireland’s autumn campaign.
