Ireland women’s rugby returns to Cork this Saturday as Scott Bemand’s side face Japan at Virgin Media Park, with supporters preparing for an afternoon of international action and several new faces in the match-day squad.
The fixture follows Ireland’s Vodafone Ireland WXV Series victory over Japan at Dexcom Stadium last week. Ireland will be aiming to complete their three-match home autumn campaign with another strong performance before travelling to Cape Town for two Tests against South Africa next month.
Ireland Women’s Rugby Brings Fresh Momentum to Cork
Captain Erin King will lead Ireland into the rematch, while Jane Clohessy and Niamh Gallagher are set to make their first starts for the national team. Sophie Barrett, Kate Jordan and Alana McInerney could also make their international debuts after being named among the replacements.
The changes give Ireland an opportunity to build squad depth while maintaining the momentum created by last weekend’s result. Japan will provide a different challenge in familiar surroundings, and the Cork crowd can expect an energetic contest from the opening whistle.
Key team news
- Erin King captains the Ireland side.
- Jane Clohessy and Niamh Gallagher make their first international starts.
- Sophie Barrett, Kate Jordan and Alana McInerney are in line for debuts from the bench.
- Kick-off is scheduled for 2pm on Saturday.
Virgin Media Park Match Information
Gates open at 12.30pm, with both teams expected to begin their warm-ups at 1.15pm. Supporters are encouraged to be in position by 1.50pm for the national anthems before the match begins.
Tickets remain available through Ticketmaster, costing €6 for children and €22.95 for adults. Tickets will also be sold on match day from the Pearse Road Ticket Office from 11.30am. The venue can accept card payments only.
Stand seating is unreserved and available on a first-come, first-served basis. Fans in the West Stand should take the nearest available seat and avoid creating gaps between groups. Stewards will be available to assist supporters throughout the stadium.
Travel and parking advice
There is no parking inside the stadium grounds. Supporters are asked not to park in nearby housing areas, where vehicles blocking entrances could be clamped or towed. Clamping is also in operation at nearby retail parks, so visitors should check all parking signs carefully.
Free parking is available at Black Ash Park & Ride, which is less than five minutes’ walk from Virgin Media Park. Supporters can access the service by presenting their match ticket at the Black Ash reception before or after the game.
What supporters need to know inside the stadium
Food concessions at both ends of the West Stand will serve hot food, while Elverys will operate a shop at the Pearse Road and Dolphin RFC end of the ground. Munster Rugby Supporter Club members will also distribute flags before kick-off.
Families attending the match have access to baby-changing facilities in the accessible toilets at the rear of the West Stand. Breastfeeding spaces are available, with staff on hand to direct supporters to a suitable area. Buggies and prams should be left beside the green pitch-side railing without blocking walkways.
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How to watch Ireland v Japan
The match will be broadcast live on IrishRugby+, giving supporters unable to attend in Cork a way to follow the action. The result will be an important marker for Ireland as the team continues developing under Bemand and prepares for the tougher South African assignment ahead.
Article/Image Courtesy: Irish Rugby
