Ballybofey’s Laura Feely has retained her place in the Ireland team for Saturday’s Women’s Six Nations game against Italy in Parma (kick-off 6.45pm).
Feely played in the defeat to England and the subsequent bonus-point win over Scotland.
Adam Griggs, the Ireland head coach, has made just one change to the team, with Kathryn Dane replacing Ailsa Hughes.
Feely has kept her place at loosehead prop.
“It was great to come away with five points after the Scotland Test,” Griggs said
“It was a physical game in tough conditions, but the players were focused on putting in a good team performance together and showing the quality rugby they can produce.
“We were pleased with the opportunities that we created and while the challenge for this group is to become even more clinical under pressure, we definitely feel each week we are improving and taking the right steps to get there.
“The Italian game should be a cracker, they have played well of late and are unbeaten so far in this Championship. We’ve been preparing diligently and know they have quality footballers that will put you under real pressure. We’ll need to be aware of these and look to close them down early if we are to get any success on Saturday.”