IRELAND’S WOMEN LEFT it late before securing their fourth try and bonus point in Italy on Sunday — but it was worth waiting for.
Leading 22-3 and with the clock already in the red, Ireland were awarded a penalty for an Italian breakdown infringement.
With no time left to kick to touch and take a lineout, outhalf Nora Stapleton spotted an opportunity and took full advantage before most other players realised what was happening.
She picked out Hannah Tyrrell with a quick cross-field kick and when the ball sat up nicely for the Ireland wing, she backed herself to do the rest.
There was still plenty of work to do as Tyrrell first danced her way around the tackle of centre Sofia Stefan, and then fended off Lucia Cammarano with a strong arm before bolting for the line.
Italy fullback Manuela Furlan looked to have the immediate danger covered but Tyrrell cut back inside and forced the defender onto her heels before switching and making a break for the corner where she dived over to send Ireland to the top of the table.
Superb.
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