Ireland are still searching for their first points of the 2023Tik Tok Six Nations championship as they fell to a 24-7 defeat to Italy in Parma. There was optimism that Ireland would turn around their fortunes having suffered defeats to Wales and France in the opening two rounds of the tournament. It wasn't to be however as a clinical Italy put Ireland to the sword. Ireland enjoyed much of the possesion and threatened the Italian try-line on several occasions but a lack of belief and extra quality showed with their first points coming in the 67th minute, by way of a penatly try.
The lead-up to the match was overshadowed by an in-depth report published in The Telegraph earlier in the week, which accused the Irish Rugby Football Union (IRFU) of inherit sexism. The report, written by journalist Fiona Tomas, highlighted the archaic governance structure and rampant sexism within the IRFU's approach to women's rugby. It described the IRFU as an "old boys club" with deep-rooted issues in its attitude towards women's rugby.
Greg McWilliams, the head coach, called on his players to help break the "negative momentum" around the team. However, a defeat against Italy has now put Ireland in a difficult position with the wooden spoon looking more and more likely. Ireland are currently bottom of the table and face a daunting task against England this weekend who have scored 185 points in their last three games.
Cli Moloney is a big miss, one of the standout players in our league. Huge error by the IRFU to leave her out; surely this has to change?? https://t.co/2LEsZy1pnS
— Susie Appleby (@SusieAppleby) April 16, 2023
The IRFU won’t even answer my calls or messages I feel the frustration of all those in a green shirt and it should be the pinnacle of their career representing their country
— Susie Appleby (@SusieAppleby) April 16, 2023
The controversy surrounding the IRFU attitudes towards women's rugby has been amplified by revelations from Susie Appleby, former England international and current head coach of the Exeter Chiefs. Appleby, who was capped for England 65 times, disclosed that the IRFU has ignored her calls and messages. She expressed her frustration on behalf of all those who wear the green shirt, stating that representing their country should be the pinnacle of their careers. The Exeter Chiefs currently have three players in the Irish squad, including Clara Nielson, Edel McMahon, and captain Nichola Fryday.
Mad to think the Head Coach of Exeter can't get in touch in regards discussing players (or to discuss their form and ask about their omission as is the case here).
Even madder when you consider they currently supply five of the players in the squad. https://t.co/9164LGOM7K— The Loose Head (@TheLooseH) April 17, 2023
The allegations of sexism and governance issues within the IRFU have raised serious concerns about the treatment of women's rugby in Ireland. There has undoubtedly been investment in the women's game from the IRFU - the annual budget allocated directly to Women’s Rugby was increased to €5.5 million but questions remain over exactly who is making these decisions with current and former players not being consulted in the actual reality of conditions and problems faced.
