Clara's Aoife Dalton will start Ireland's rugby world cup quarter-final fixture against France on Sunday. Photo: Ramsey Cardy/Sportsfile.

Clara's Dalton named to start in Ireland's World Cup quarter-final clash

Published: Fri 12 Sep 2025, 1:10 PM

Clara native Aoife Dalton has been named in her customary centre berth for the Ireland's women's rugby world cup quarter-final fixture against France in Sandy Park, Exeter, on Sunday afternoon (kick-off, 1pm).

The former Moate Community School student retains her place in the starting team following Ireland's Pool C loss to New Zealand.

There is further Midlands representation on the team with Ballinasloe duo Aoibheann Reilly and Béibhinn Parsons also filling defensive roles on the team, Reilly playing in her familiar scrum-half position, while Parsons has been selected to play on the right wing.

Meanwhile, Athlone's Anna McGann, who featured as a second half substitute against New Zealand, has been listed amongst the replacements for the knockout stage encounter.