Ireland kicking coach Gareth Steenson says finishing the Women’s Six Nations with back‑to‑back home victories would be huge for the squad after Saturday’s 26‑7 loss to France in Clermont. The French side turned a tight first half into a comfortable win, denying Ireland three tries that looked certain. Steenson stresses the need to rebound on home soil.

Earlier in the campaign Ireland thumped Italy 57‑20 in Galway, scoring seven first‑half tries and showcasing a potent attack. That performance set the benchmark for the remaining fixtures: Wales visits Belfast on 9 May, followed by Scotland at the Aviva Stadium on 17 May. Steenson hopes the crowds will fuel the same intensity.

Steenson notes the programme has been a useful barometer. Opening against England offered a stern test, then the Galway win proved the side could adapt to tough conditions. The narrow defeat in France, he says, provided the “two good test matches” needed to sharpen the team before the decisive home games.

With home support expected to swell in Belfast and Dublin, the Irish women can translate the brand of rugby they’ve displayed into tangible results. Securing those two victories would not only meet the pre‑tournament goal of three home wins but also cement Ireland’s standing as a rising force in the Six Nations.