Ireland had to settle for second best in their Six Nations campaign this evening when they suffered a 10-5 defeat to France in Ashbourne after an extremely tense finish.
It was a game that was filled with drama as the floodlights went just after half-time and players and supporters were, quite literally, left in the dark.
The game was delayed in order for the problem to be rectified behind the scenes but play finally resumed once more on the main pitch.
Just over 2,000 supporters here in @AshbourneRFC – great support and patience. Thanks to the club for working tirelessly to restore lights.
— Irish Rugby (@IrishRugby) February 13, 2015
Ireland didn’t seem be any worse off from the delay, heading into a 5-0 lead quickly after the resumption.
Ireland’s Heather Byrne touched down to secure Ireland the first score of the night, and Niamh Briggs was unlucky not to convert.
However, a speedy interception from France saw them touch down to tie the game.
Caroline Boujard notched the try for the visitors which Jessy Tremouliere duly converted. The latter added another three points with just over six minutes remaining to put them into a 10-5 lead.
There was great support in Ashbourne for both sides who were treated to a thrilling finale that saw Ireland just a breath away from the touchline. However, time ran out for the women and green and France held strong to claim victory.
Ireland will play England in the next round in just under two weeks’ time.
Here’s how Twitter reacted to the news that the lights had gone out in Ashbourne this evening.
The floodlights have gone at the Ireland Women’s game. Will keep you updated.
— Irish Rugby (@IrishRugby) February 13, 2015
@IrishRugby would this happen in the Aviva ? #6nations #wrugby #IREvFRA
— Janice (@jdalymorrissey) February 13, 2015
@IrishRugby raise the women’s game profile will you! Donnybrook double bill with the u20s next year! Bring it where you can get a big crowd!
— David Burke (@BurkeDAB) February 13, 2015
@IrishRugby match should be played in donnybrook or RDS. Theses girls train and play like professionals, should be treated as such.
— Kim Leonard (@kimleonard4) February 13, 2015
@IrishRugby disgraceful that you’s have the girls internationals played there still. Should be in the RDS
— sara lawlor (@lawlor111) February 13, 2015
@IrishRugby SORT IT OUT….our girls deserve better!!
— Barbara Reynolds (@BabsR) February 13, 2015
@IrishRugby shameful. Irish women deserve better than this.
— Ger O’ (@Ger_Teresa) February 13, 2015
— Brendan Reilly (@1BrendanReilly) February 13, 2015
Fantastic support from Ireland & French fans in @AshbourneRFC – thank you for your patience in staying to support the teams. #wrugby
— Irish Rugby (@IrishRugby) February 13, 2015
