Ireland women’s first full international since last winter’s World Cup ended in a 0-0 draw against Japan in Den Bosch, Holland, today.
Hermes defender Fiona Connery made her debut after starting the game at full-back and Bridget McKeever (Ballymoney) and Elaine Bromell (Harlequins) both won their first caps after being introduced as substitutes.
The two sides last met at the World Cup when the Irish lost 1-0 but today they were much more solid and coach Riet Kuper praised the displays of ex-Kilkenny College class-mates Nikki King and Daphne Sixsmith, as well as midfield trio of Eimear Cregan, Jill Orbinson and captain Rachael Kohler.
Ireland continue their preparations for September’s European Nations Cup with a game against Holland on Sunday.