Niamh Briggs: Men's win inspired us to victory

Ireland Women’s captain Niamh Briggs has revealed that her side were inspired by their male counterparts Six Nations victory prior to the women taking the title themselves on Sunday.

Speaking to RTÉ Sport, Briggs stated that the men’s victory was the perfect tonic just before taking to the field to defeat Scotland Women 73-3 and claim the title on points difference.

“I think it gave us great hope. Having to chase a score when you’re going into a game is always very difficult, but the lads performed absolutely unbelievably well and it definitely gave us a big lift,” said Briggs.

“We didn’t concentrate too much on the score, we just concentrated on winning and anything after that was a boost.

“I don’t think we could have imagined how it would have turned out.

“It’s been a great weekend for Irish rugby.”

The women’s team also hold down day jobs as well as being international rugby players, but Briggs spoke of how balancing rugby and career was part and parcel of the gig, and not something that the squad complain about.

“It’s difficult but we don’t really see it as a sacrifice and wouldn’t have it any other way,” said Briggs.

“We flew back from Wales early on Monday morning and most of us had to go to work on Monday morning.

“But we’ve all got fantastic employers who really support us and allow us to go and achieve things like this. So, it’s not much of a sacrifice when you get to bring home trophies like this.”