USA loss 'a game we should have won' - Bemand

Ireland head coach Scott Bemand lamented his team's 40-36 defeat to USA in their WXV Global Series opener at Tallaght Stadium, claiming they should have secured a victory. USA, coached by Jack Hanratty, fought back from a 31-12 deficit in the second half to score four consecutive tries and emerge victorious. Bemand attributed their loss to a lack of discipline in the second half, which allowed USA to regain momentum and run away with the game.

Ireland's early displays were impressive, but Bemand felt his team let the game slip away, citing a need to be "cuter and smarter" in stopping USA's momentum. He emphasized the importance of controlling the penalty count and improving technical performance, such as finishing tackles more swiftly and applying greater pressure during breaks.

Despite the loss, Ireland showed resilience in fighting for a late win, with Dorothy Wall scoring a late try to give them a chance. However, USA capitalized on the turnover, denying Ireland a victory. Bemand expressed disappointment at putting himself in such a precarious position but was proud of his team's determination. Ireland now faces two more games against Japan in the WXV, with one scheduled for next weekend in Galway and another in Cork at the beginning of October.

Bemand hopes for a stronger performance in these upcoming matches, aiming to build on the lessons learned from this tough loss.