Ireland name Gallagher and Reilly as they seek series win over Springbok Women

Two changes for the rematch

Ireland head coach Scott Bemand has made two changes for the second Test against South Africa, set for Saturday, 31 October in Cape Town. Niamh Gallagher comes in at full-back for Stacey Flood, and Aoibheann Reilly takes over at scrum-half from Emily Lane. Gallagher earns her fifth cap, while Reilly is winning her 24th. Flood and Lane both move to the bench, where Ireland have opted for a five-three split between forwards and backs after a six-two split in the first Test. The match is Ireland's final WXV Global Series game of the season, and Bemand said the squad wanted to leave the tournament with fresh caps, new experiences and wins.

“Completing a series win, a historic win in South Africa, that'll be a first for Irish rugby.”

The first Test in Athlone

Ireland beat the Springbok Women 40-27 at Athlone Stadium in the first Test of the series. Linda Djougang scored two tries in that match, and Dannah O'Brien kicked 10 points. Ireland were poised to take control when Reilly crossed in the 65th minute, but the try was disallowed and South Africa responded with a score of their own, which left a nervy finish. Bemand said his side had let a winning margin slip in the opening game against the USA. Ireland will need to withstand another powerful South African start, and Bemand expects the hosts to bring significant physicality again on Saturday, 31 October.

“We know it's going to take an even bigger effort this week.”

Bemand on the selections

Bemand praised Gallagher's training form and said she had earned her chance at full-back. He said Flood is a good player and that the team knows what she can do at her best. Flood is set to add an attacking option later in the match from the bench. RTÉ described Beibhinn Parsons as in form, and Bemand said he was confident the team would bring its best game and handle whatever moments South Africa create.

“Niamh Gallagher has been going really well in training.”

Rest of the matchday 23

Ireland's pack is unchanged from the first Test. Linda Djougang and Eilís Cahill pack down either side of hooker Neve Jones, with Dorothy Wall and Jane Clohessy in the second row. Fiona Tuite-O'Sullivan is on the blindside, Erin King captains from openside and Brittany Hogan is at number 8. In the backs, Aoife Dalton and Anna McGann are paired in midfield for the third game in a row, while Robyn O'Connor and Beibhinn Parsons are on the wings. Dannah O'Brien starts at out-half for the 21st Test in a row. Sophie Barrett, an Ulster prop, is in line for her second Test cap off the bench, with Sadhbh McGrath dropping out of the matchday 23.