Scotland lost their second and final Summer Test 27-21 to Ireland in Cork on Saturday afternoon as the build up to the Women’s Rugby World Cup continued.
A match report from the action in Virgin Media Park can be found here and here are five talking points…
Much better start than against Italy
Against Italy in Viadana eight days previously Scotland were sluggish to get going and were punished for it. In Cork they were much brighter early on and took a 14-0 lead by the 21st minute thanks to two converted tries. A similar start versus Wales on August 23 would go down nicely.
Scott looking sharp
Still just 21 and with seven caps, Lucia Scott has been in the squad for nearly a year now and has started both the Summer Tests. Head coach Bryan Easson clearly sees her as someone that can cover 15 and wing and she came off her wing really well to score her try versus Ireland.
Skeldon injury a massive turning point
When talismanic figure Lana Skeldon, the 81-cap hooker, was forced off after a lengthy stoppage after around 31 minutes, Scotland were on top. Straight away after that, Ireland got the upper hand and never looked back and Scotland have to adapt quicker when leaders not there.
Wassell getting another game under belt a boost
Having not played at this level for 15 months, the last two weeks will have taken it out of Emma Wassell, but with Sarah Bonar and Jade Konkel having not played of late and Hollie Cunningham out of the World Cup, the second-row is going to be so crucial come the Wales game.
Short St Andrews stint vitally important
The squad may only be in St Andrews this coming week for a few days before heading to the World Cup, but they will really want to tighten up on a few things from this game and the Italy game, get clear heads and make sure everyone is on the same page ahead of the Wales game.
The 32-strong squad for the World Cup will be named on Thursday.
Scotland squad that played Ireland: Chloe Rollie; Coreen Grant, Emma Orr, Lisa Thomson, Lucia Scott; Hannah Ramsay, Caity Mattinson; Anne Young, Lana Skeldon, Elliann Clarke, Emma Wassell, Rachel Malcolm (C), Rachel McLachlan, Alex Stewart, Evie Gallagher. Subs: Elis Martin, Leah Bartlett, Molly Poolman, Adelle Ferrie, Eva Donaldson, Leia Brebner-Holden, Beth Blacklock, Evie Wills.
Scorers: Tries: Lisa Thomson, Lucia Scott, Emma Orr. Cons: Lisa Thomson (3).
Tickets for Scotland-England at Murrayfield in April 2026 can be purchased here.
Emma Wassell and skipper Rachel Malcolm are pictured during the Ireland-Scotland game – thanks to Scottish Rugby
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