Ireland’s Eve Higgins Shines with Stunning Intercept Try Against Japan

Eve Higgins delivered a standout performance for Ireland during their recent match against Japan at Franklin’s Gardens. The centre showcased her agility and strategic thinking with a remarkable intercept try, demonstrating the skills she honed in the Sevens format. Ireland secured a decisive victory, marking an impressive start to their campaign in the 2024 World Cup.

Higgins reflected on her pivotal moment during the match, noting, “It’s funny, it was said: ‘Was I looking at the screen?’ That’s something you learn from Sevens: sometimes you break away, and the only way to see if someone is chasing you is to look at the screen.” Her ability to gauge the field was crucial as she intercepted the ball, evading defenders to score a length-of-the-field try.

This moment came at a critical juncture, as Ireland led by 21 points at half-time but faced a renewed challenge from Japan after the break. Higgins explained, “I saw the opportunity and knew I couldn’t go with one hand, that would have been seven points and a yellow card. I tried to grab it with two and thankfully kept my feet.” This decisive play not only secured her team’s lead but also highlighted her risk-taking mentality on the field.

Defining Moments and Team Dynamics

The try was a highlight of what many consider Higgins’ best performance in a green jersey. While teammate Brittany Hogan was named player of the match, Higgins’ contributions were equally significant. She carried the ball for an impressive 150 metres, beating seven defenders and creating scoring opportunities, including a crucial setup for Fiona Tuite’s first-half score.

Ireland’s tactical evolution was evident as Higgins adapted to various roles within the team. This year, she has primarily played as inside centre, a shift from her position at outside centre during the 2024 Six Nations. “The biggest thing is to wear a green jersey,” she emphasized. “I’m enjoying 12 at the moment, but if you put 13 on my back, I’d also enjoy that.”

Looking ahead, Ireland aims to maintain momentum in their upcoming match against Spain. The team is focused on improving their second-half performance, especially after Japan threatened to close the gap during their last encounter. “It’s definitely something we’re looking at, how we start better in the second half,” Higgins stated.

Cultural Impact and Off-Field Presence

Off the pitch, Higgins and teammate Anna McGann have gained attention for their engaging TikTok content, particularly their viral fleece merchandise. The ‘viral fleece’ has captured fan interest, with many supporters eager to wear apparel featuring the IRFU crest. Higgins remarked on the positive reception, saying, “It blows my mind the exposure it can get, the support we’ve gotten from all over the world.”

The partnership with Canterbury has also been beneficial, as they assured fans that the fleece will be available in multiple locations worldwide, enhancing the team’s merchandise reach. “We’ll welcome every opportunity for someone to put the crest on!” Higgins added, highlighting the importance of fan engagement.

As Ireland prepares for the next challenge in the World Cup, Higgins’ blend of on-field excellence and off-field charisma continues to resonate with supporters. The combination of her athletic prowess and engaging personality contributes to a growing narrative around women’s rugby in Ireland, inspiring the next generation of players.