USA RUGBY — The USA Women’s National Team (WNT) wrapped up its WXV 1 campaign and the year with a hard-fought match against Ireland, ultimately falling 14-26. Despite a strong first half where the Eagles showcased confidence and control, a series of penalties and handling errors in the second half allowed Ireland to seize momentum.

“We were really confident, but unfortunately discipline and the yellow cards made it really hard against a really good Irish team,” USA WNT Head Coach Sione Fukofuka said. “We’ve had four weeks together, a WXV 1 tournament against some of the best teams in the world. We’re really pleased at we’re [sic] we’ve grown to, but back in the game we could’ve been a little smarter and our discipline was a challenge.”

Hope Rogers and Jamie Burke / Photo: Rich Lam – World Rugby/World Rugby via Getty Images

Hope Rogers celebrated her 50th cap, becoming only the second USA Women’s Eagle to reach this milestone since Jamie Burke’s 51. Past and present collided at the jersey ceremony, where Jamie Burke presented Rogers with her jersey. Captain Kate Zackary also made history, earning her 40th cap and joining an elite group as only the sixth player to achieve this mark.

“WXV 1 is where we want to be,” USA WNT Captain Kate Zackary said. “Coming out of PAC 4, our intent was to win that last game against Australia and seal the deal to get into WXV 1. Because we want to play against the best teams; there’s nothing like competing against the top teams in the world. And Ireland’s on the come up. It’s great to see the investment they have and work hard on and that’s something we’re chasing in the States.”

Match Recap

Alev Kelter kicked off the match, and the USA showcased strong defense early on, stealing the ball from Ireland’s first line out. Despite some early pressure from Ireland, the Eagles displayed unwavering determination, making significant tackles and winning crucial balls. McKenzie Hawkins made a standout tackle, pushing an Irish player into touch, helping to set the tone for a solid defensive effort.

The USA struck first when Hope Rogers powered through multiple defenders to score the opening try. McKenzie Hawkins converted, putting the USA ahead 7-0. The Eagles maintained their momentum with fast ball movement and strong phases, demonstrating a confident attack. However, as the half progressed, discipline began to wane, with penalties creeping in and giving Ireland opportunities to regroup.

Hallie Taufoou / Photo: Rich Lam – World Rugby/World Rugby via Getty Images

Ireland responded with relentless pressure and eventually equalized at 7-7 after a quick tap and go. The USA quickly rallied, with Rogers on a tap and go, setting Alev Kelter up for a great line break. Rogers scored her second try before halftime, taking the lead to 14-7 as they headed into the break, energized and looking to make a statement.

Despite their strong first-half performance, the second half saw the Eagles falter as Ireland gained momentum. The USA struggled with discipline, conceding penalties at critical moments that shifted the balance of the game. This lack of composure at the breakdown allowed Ireland to capitalize on mistakes and regain the initiative.

As the game progressed, the breakdown became a battleground, with turnovers causing frustration for the Eagles. An unfortunate yellow card for Tahlia Brody, following an offside knockdown, led to a penalty try for Ireland, tying the game at 14-14.

Photo: Rich Lam – World Rugby/World Rugby via Getty Images

With Rachel Ehrecke and Rachel Johnson both receiving yellow cards, the Eagles were down players as the second half ticked down, providing Ireland with a critical opportunity to take the lead. They capitalized on this advantage, scoring a try that put them ahead 21-14. A subsequent dive over the wing stretched Ireland’s lead to 26-14. [lead photo: Travis Prior for USA Rugby]

Despite a valiant effort, the Eagles lost their confidence in the second half. With a final score of 14-26, the USA will take valuable lessons from this match, particularly on discipline, as they look to regroup and refocus heading into the new year.