Beibhinn Parsons cemented her place in rugby history on September 27, 2026, becoming the all-time leading try scorer for the Ireland women's national team. The milestone arrived during a hard-fought 31-24 victory over Japan at Dexcom Stadium in the WXV Global Series.
Playing in her home town of Galway, Parsons crossed the try line twice to reach 24 international tries. Her historic achievement helped Ireland withstand a fierce late rally from the visitors and secure a vital bounce-back win following a difficult opening weekend.
The contest began under challenging circumstances as both squads had to contend with swirling winds in Galway. Ireland adapted more efficiently to the blustery weather, breaking the deadlock after ten minutes when Brittany Hogan powered through from short range.
Despite the early score, the opening half proved disjointed with numerous stoppages and limited space for attacking backlines. Ireland managed to capitalize again shortly after the half-hour mark, with Hogan touching down for her second try following a neat attacking sequence initiated by scrum-half Aoibheann Reilly.
Japan nearly answered immediately when an Irish defensive lapse presented an opening, though Anna McGann sprinted back to thwart a dangerous run by Nami Asari. Moments later, Parsons electrified the home crowd with a brilliant individual run down the flank, touching down just before halftime.
Japan managed to strike back before the break while Ireland captain Erin King was serving a yellow card, with Moe Nagaoka driving over from a rolling maul. The visitors carried that momentum into the second half, narrowing the deficit further when Nagaoka found the try line once again from another disciplined maul.
Head coach Scott Bemand watched his team respond positively to the pressure, avoiding a repeat of their previous collapse against the United States. Substitute Aoife Dalton made an immediate impact, crossing for a crucial try shortly after stepping onto the pitch.
The pace of the match remained relentless as Japan continued to press. Nijiho Nagata powered through from yet another maul to keep her side within striking distance.
Ireland sealed the outcome when Parsons scored her second try of the afternoon, capitalizing on a sharp pass from McGann and allowing Dannah O'Brien to convert. Although Asari managed a late touchdown for the visitors in the closing minutes, the home defense held firm to run down the clock and secure the victory.
Reporting based on coverage first published by BBC Sport. Read the original report at BBC Sport.
