Ireland's Beibhinn Parsons is approaching her first Women's Six Nations match on home soil in Galway with excitement rather than pressure, as the team looks to bounce back from an opening defeat.
This Saturday's clash against Italy at Connacht's Dexcom Stadium marks a historic moment—the first time the venue has hosted a Six Nations fixture. For Parsons, a Ballinasloe native raised just 40 miles from the stadium, it represents a special homecoming.
"I'll feel really well supported going into Galway," Parsons said. "All my friends and family are there, so I just want to do them proud."
The 12,500-capacity stadium is familiar territory for Parsons, who played there as recently as February in the Celtic Challenge. She views the occasion as an opportunity to showcase Ireland's growing support, noting the "green wave" that has expanded since the World Cup.
Parsons, who debuted for Ireland at age 16 in 2018, emphasized that the team is focused on improvement after their 33-12 loss to England last week. She revealed that "dominance" has become a key theme in camp this week, with players determined to move beyond simply enjoying the occasion.
"Cliodhna Moloney said after her 50th cap, 'I can't wait to be here when we perform and we don't just enjoy the occasion,'" Parsons shared. "That's our next step—to not be in awe of these teams, to just have belief."
Parsons missed last year's Six Nations due to a broken leg but has returned with renewed perspective. She acknowledged that while the team believed they could beat England, there are "a few tweaks we need to fix up on" as they prepare to face Italy.
Captain Erin King has reinforced this message of confidence within the squad. The match represents not just a geographical homecoming for Parsons, but a chance for Ireland to demonstrate their development on the international stage.