IRELAND’S FORGETTABLE WOMEN’S World Twenty20 campaign ended with a fourth heavy defeat, as Aaron Hamilton’s side failed to register a point at the tournament for the third successive edition.
Posting just 79 for nine from their allocated 20 overs was never going to be enough to challenge New Zealand in Providence, as Ireland slumped to an eight wicket loss in their final Group B outing.
Gaby Lewis was the only bat to show any sort of form or fearlessness as she hit five boundaries on her way to 39, but ultimately received very little support as Ireland stuttered through their innings.
In her final innings in international cricket, Clare Shillington scored 12, while the game also marked the end of the careers of stalwarts Isobel and Cecelia Joyce and Ciara Metcalfe.
With a meagre total to defend, Ireland’s bowlers were left with little chance and, try as they might, were put to the sword by opener Sophie Devine, who plundered 51 from just 22 balls.
New Zealand reached their target inside 7.3 overs, condemning Ireland to another harsh loss.
“Four outstanding leaders, and today Cecelia and Isobel announced their retirement as well,” Ireland captain Laura Delaney said.
“The four players were so close as a group… congratulations to the four of them on outstanding careers. Their commitment on and off the pitch, no one can deny. I can’t thank them enough for everything they have done for us.”
Four legends of Irish cricket bow out from international cricket - enjoy your retirement @ShillersC, @CiaraJMetcalfe, @Izzyjoyce and @CeceliaJoyce44 - you will be missed! 🙌 pic.twitter.com/lTvQzsJomT
— ICC (@ICC) November 17, 2018
Subscribe to our new podcast, Heineken Rugby Weekly on The42, here:
Great 2nd half performance. Fair play to Arnold after getting a bit of stick lately to score a cracker like that. Van Dijk was a rock and Robertson has to be the best left back in the league. Bring on PSG Wednesday night!
@Maureen: Happy with the three points but they were very tame for about 60 minutes or so. Last 30 very good. Despite the league position still haven’t been firing on all cylinders so thankfully the defence is solid. God I sound very moany for a 3 nil win. But they will need to be more for a win against psg I reckon.
@Seaniecp: It was never going to be easy with Watford taking a leaf out of Mourinhos book and parking the bus but the goal was coming and Arnold’s goal made sure of the 3 points.
PSG will be totally different with plenty of room in behind to run into, chances will be created, hopefully they will take a few of em and seal their place in the next round.
@Seaniecp: no coincidence that the goals came when Watford had to start playing football. They set out to defend and got punished for it at the end. Liverpool still nowhere near our best though, can’t help but think the constant formation changes has something to do with it. Will take that points tally any day though!
“the hosts could have taken all 3 points”.
That’s an unusual assessment of a 3-0 win!
They still haven’t got out of 1st gear and City are at full pelt, and we’re 2 point’s off. More than happy with that.
@Mike Lyn: I suppose the real question is will they hit the attacking levels of last year. I’m not so sure myself. Definitely a more pragmatic approach this year. Better to win by 1 than 4
@Mark Noonan: I believe if we come through December still in touch we have a real chance of winning it. The attack will click no doubt and a sound defence, ya never know. Going out of Champion’s League would hurt, but having the squad to concentrate on League alone wouldn’t be too bad. If we click at right time and have only League to think about i have no doubt we can best City. IMO.
Nice result, first half was a struggle but once the first goal went in there was no trouble from Watford! But how stupid was Henderson head was gone from previous tackle! Vvd for Captain
I think I’d prefer to win by 4 than 1, might be handy if it comes down to goal difference