HOPES of Scotland’s women being able to repeat last year’s brilliant away win in Ireland came to nothing after a tame first-half performance with the wind behind them saw them behind at the break and finding there was no way back.

They did manage to hang onto the ball for one consistent attacking phase when they turned down two easy kicks at goal. They were rewarded when the forwards piled on the pressure and Hannah Smith, the centre, took advantage to cross for a try that briefly levelled the scores.

They had been behind after Ireland lock Aoife McDermott had barged over in the opening minutes and then fell behind again in the final move of the first half when prop Leah Lyons scored an almost identical try.

Facing the wind and with hardly any possession to use, Scotland were under the cosh for most of the second half. They defended bravely and with huge spirit but with so much ball to work with, it was only a matter of time before Ireland settled the result with wing Alison Miller sliding into the corner before flanker Anna Caplice, later named player of the match, crossed for the bonus point try.