Griffin scores two tries in Six Nations win

IT was a week to remember for Ireland women’s captain Ciara Griffin.

The Ballymacelligott native inspired her country to a 21-8 victory over Italy last Sunday, and helped herself to two second half tries in the process. Megan Williams had set the ball rolling with a try in the first half before Griffin got in on the act in the second period. Niamh Briggs also had a good day with the boot and converted all three efforts.

Griffin, playing in the pivotal number 8 position, has grown as a player since being selected as captain at the start of the women’s 6 Nations competition. Her organisational skills were also very much in evidence against Italy, and her ability to get the best out of her colleagues could see the national school teacher in the skipper role for a long time to come.

A setback for Ireland was the injury to flying winger Alison Miller who fractured her ankle in the first half. Kerry native Ciara O’Connor made an appearance for her country in the 61st minute and put in a solid performance in the front row. Ireland’s next outing is on February 25 when they welcome Wales to Donnybrook.

Munster romped to a bonus point 35-0 win over Zebre in the Guinness Pro 14 tie at Thomond Park last Saturday. Two tries from Sammy Arnold, Brian Scott, man of the match Robin Copeland, and Niall Scannell helped the Munster lads to a comprehensive victory.

JJ Hanrahan got a run out at number 10 and landed one of the conversions, with his replacement Ian Keatley slotting over three more in the second half. Munster are now in second place in the table on 48 points and are away to fourth placed Cardiff on February 17 for the next round of the competition.