The bottom line for Ireland was overwhelmingly positive after a bonus-point victory over Japan to start their World Cup campaign, claiming six tries in front of an Irish-dominated crowd at Franklin’s Gardens in Northampton.

Eve Higgins scored the pivotal try as Ireland launched its Women's Rugby World Cup campaign with a 42-14 victory over Japan in Northampton on Sunday. Japan was on the attack and pressing for another try while trailing 28-14 before inside center Higgins picked off a floating pass and ran the length of the field to score.

Ireland scored six tries in a comprehensive 42-14 win over Japan to get their Women's Rugby World Cup campaign off to a perfect start.