MEET OUR NEW RUGBY HERO

Twenty-four hours before Poyntzpass man Rory Best was featuring for Ireland's men in the defence of their Six Nations crown, Annaclone woman Eliza Downey was taking her place amongst the replacements for the women who, like the men, were playing Italy in the opening game of the female version of the tournament.

It has been a remarkable rise through the sport for Eliza, who also plays for Cooke and Ulster, as she has only been playing the game for two years. This is her first time in the Irish squad.

And her name may be familiar as Eliza is better known as the Down Ladies captain, having led them to Divison Two glory back in May.

"It has been a massive learning curve for me but it has been amazing," said Eliza.

"We have been training in Navan and I've learnt a lot from it, I've really sharpened my skills. The coaches and players have welcomed me into the squad and it's been great to be part of a professional set up."

Having played Gaelic football for 14 years Eliza is still learning the ropes in rugby but playing in both codes, she said, has actually improved her game.

"Any time that I have been asked if I have noticed any difference between the two I always say that both have helped each other," she said.

"Rugby is more technical and it can be more difficult but it has helped to improve my handling and kicking in gaelic."

Eliza will still continue to play Gaelic for Down but rugby committments have meant that her appearances will be reduced this season.

She added, "Last year because I had only started to play rugby it took more of a back seat but now that it's starting to take more prominence I'm going to have to miss some County games.

"I've already missed some games in the Dowd Cup because I've had to put more time into my rugby but you have to commit to these things.

"I let the Down coaches know what my plans were and they've been more than supportive and have wished me all the best.

"Personally, I want to be able to justify my place on the squad by performing to the best of my ability. I am aware that I am always on a learning curve and will look to my other team mates and those in the opposition for inspiration and example.

"Many of these girls are world class players, and I am hoping that playing alongside them and being part of the whole experience will enhance me as a player."

Eliza made her debut in Friday's 22-5 win, watched by her parents and family members.

"I only got on for 10 minutes or so at the end but it was nice to get my first cap," she said.

"We didn't underestimate the Italians and while we found their attack hard to control at the start I thought we did very well.

"The result is positive and there is a lot there for us to build on over the coming weeks.

"With France, who would be regarded as favourites, losing to Scotland it gives us hope of winning the tournament."