Tuite aims to fuel Ireland’s spirit following Japan victory
Fiona Tuite has quickly become a standout performer for Ireland, stepping up when the team needed her most. With injuries sidelining key back-row options Erin King and Aoife Wafer, head coach Scott Bemand turned to Tuite, traditionally a lock, to fill the gap on the flank. The move has paid off, with the Ulster forward now firmly establishing herself as a crucial figure in Ireland’s campaign.
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Shifting Roles and Rising Impact
Tuite, who has featured in Ireland’s last 12 fixtures, began the warm-up clash against Canada in the second row before switching to blindside when Sam Monaghan entered the game. In the Pool C encounter with Japan, she made her first start as a wing forward and capped off a commanding display with her first international try, finishing a superb line set up by Eve Higgins. Over the course of the game, she carried nine times for 37 metres, threw nine lineouts, and contributed significantly to Ireland’s 42-14 victory.
Special Support in the Stands
In front of 13,000 fans at the stadium, Tuite had her own cheering section, which included her fiancé, Ulster prop Eric O’Sullivan. She admitted the try was even more meaningful knowing her loved ones were in attendance. “Everything I do is for them,” she said. “Seeing them in the crowd and hearing ‘Ireland’s Call’ echo around the stadium made it a very proud moment.”
Balancing Squad Depth and Injuries
While Wafer could return later in the tournament, Tuite’s form offers Ireland breathing space. Winning her 18th cap against Japan, she acknowledged the competition for places but expressed excitement at Wafer’s potential comeback, noting how her presence lifts the team’s spirit. Tuite embraced her chance at blindside, highlighting the collective mindset: “We always talk about the back five, not just a split between forwards and backs.”
Looking Ahead to Spain and Beyond
Next up for Ireland is Spain, who struggled in a heavy defeat to New Zealand. Tuite insists Ireland must maintain momentum, with the ultimate goal being a semi-final spot in London. “This is only the start,” she said. “We’ll carry this energy into Spain, then New Zealand, and push forward.”
Emotional Connections Off the Field
Ahead of the Japan match, the squad received a boost from injured teammate Dorothy Wall, who visited the camp. Tuite described the moment as emotional, reflecting on her close bond with Wall and the absence of other sidelined players like King and Christy Haney. Despite setbacks, she stressed that the entire squad remains united. “We are all connected. Even the girls who can’t play are still part of everything we do,” she added.
