Ireland Women scored seven tries in their WXV Global Series win against the Springbok Women at Athlone Stadium in Cape Town on Saturday.
The visitors won 40-27 after leading 21-17 half-time, with their experience and composure proving decisive as South Africa were left to rue unforced errors and defensive lapses.
Ireland struck first through centre Aoife Dalton in the eighth minute, but Bok Women No 8 Aseza Hele responded with a superb 30m run down the left touchline.
Aseza Hele has some pace to burn in Cape Town
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After Ireland captain Erin King was yellow-carded for a dangerous tackle, lock Vainah Ubisi crashed over to put the Bok Women 12-7 ahead.
Loosehead prop Linda Djougang regained the lead for Ireland before left wing Maria Tshiremba crossed in the corner to edge South Africa back in front.
However, lock Jane Clohessy scored after the half-time hooter to give Ireland a four-point lead at the break.
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The visitors made a flying start to the second half when right wing Beibhinn Parsons finished out wide, before King extended their advantage to 33-17 in the 52nd minute.
South Africa introduced fresh forwards, including Yonela Ngxingolo, who earned her 50th Test cap, but struggled to contain Ireland’s powerful ball-carriers.
The Bok Women refused to surrender, with flanker Lerato Makua crossing while Ireland’s Eve Higgins was in the sin bin.
However, Djougang’s second try, from a pick-and-drive in the 74th minute, effectively sealed the result, before right wing Alichia Arries grabbed a late consolation try for the hosts.
The teams will meet again at Athlone Stadium next Saturday in the second and final Test.
SPRINGBOK WOMEN – Tries: Aseza Hele, Vainah Ubisi, Maria Tshiremba, Lerato Makua, Alichia Arries. Conversion: Jakkie Cilliers.
IRELAND WOMEN – Tries: Aoife Dalton, Linda Djougang (2), Jane Clohessy, Beibhinn Parsons, Erin King, Aoibheann Reilly. Conversions: Dannah O’Brien (5).
Photo: Roger Sedres/Gallo Images
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