NIAMH GALLAGHER enjoyed another proud moment after becoming a full senior international, having been introduced from off the bench in Ireland’s 33-12 home win against Wales in the Women’s Six Nations clash at the Affidea Stadium, writes Jonathan Landi.

The fullback and former Enfield Tiger was unleashed in the 60th minute and, seizing the moment, she got through a lot of unseen work by attending to the nitty gritty tasks as Ireland maintained their physicality throughout.

The surge of pride at the final whistle was manifest, particularly as Ireland, by virtue of the bonus point victory in Belfast, leapfrogged Italy into third, ahead of the finale against Scotland.

Niamh’s pathway to the pinnacle of the women’s game is the legacy of four appearances at full back in the 2024 and 2025 editions of the U20s Six Nations Summer Series, and, more recently, Ireland’s crushing win over Italy at U21s level.

It’s also the reflection of some impressive domestic form in the colours of the Ealing-based Trailfinders in the Women’s Premiership, and Ireland’s decision to introduce nine uncapped players into their squad.

Head coach Scott Bemand, speaking to the Irish Rugby Union Football website, said: “[When] Niamh came in, we had a calibration camp in January. She had been part of part of the U20s group, and the U21s. She played against Italy for the U21s, when we played them (in Galway).

“To be honest, she’s been training the house down. She has got a really rounded skillset, [and] she can kick the ball a mile.

“I was saying to a couple of the media personnel over in France, she was goal-kicking from the halfway line. So, we don’t see that very often in the women’s space.

“So, she’s got a great boot, [and] she can kick a long way out of hand. She is really comfortable under the high ball and she’s got an unbelievable step.

“Having that positional depth at full-back, and that competition for places, hopefully will bring out the best in Stacey (Flood) [incumbent fullback}. So, you’re kind of elevating your squad performance whilst growing the depth.”

It’s been a remarkable journey for the player which has taken in many different stages, but which began following her introduction to tag rugby at the St Edmunds Catholic Primary School in Edmonton.