Irish Rugby Dominance
March 7, 2024
With a second consecutive slam victory in sight after a commanding win over Wales, Ireland's journey through rugby union success has become a captivating narrative. The pre-match commentary echoed the unanswerable superiority of the Irish team, juxtaposed with Wales, a young team in transition. The Irish players, under the guidance of coach Andy
Farrell, have evolved into a winning machine over their five-year journey together.
The anticipation surrounding Ireland's supremacy played out as expected in the match against Wales. Despite not being at their best, Ireland comfortably defeated Wales. The bonus point, though secured in the last play of the game, reflected the team's ability. The dismantling of the brave Wales team showcased the prowess of the Irish side, setting the
stage for a crucial match against England.
Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly celebrated the victory, acknowledging the rich heritage intertwined with Irish rugby success. The implications of Ireland's triumph go beyond the field, resonating with a sense of national pride and unity. As Ireland continues to assert its dominance on the rugby stage, it becomes a source of inspiration for the nation,
reflecting the resilience and collective spirit of its people.
The focus now shifts to the upcoming clash against England in Twickenham. Unlike the passive ploy employed by Wales, England presents a different challenge. Coach Andy Farrell dismisses the notion that the first-half frustration against Wales provides a blueprint for England. The English team operates with a more aggressive approach, flying up to disrupt
the playmaker and swarming over the breakdown.
For many, the journey across the Irish Sea to witness the clash against England holds immense significance. Families, like my own, will journey to Twickenham with bated breath, fuelled by the desire to avoid a repeat of the cruel defeat to New Zealand last October.
The impending clash against England transforms into more than a rugby match—it stands as a testament to the enduring spirit defining Irish rugby. It encapsulates a nation's journey, overcoming challenges and celebrating victories with unwavering fervour. The anticipation becomes a communal experience, uniting families, friends, and communities.
Looking forward, this match signifies a commitment to uphold the legacy of Irish rugby excellence, inspiring the next generation. The values instilled on the rugby pitch—teamwork, resilience, and determination—become guiding principles for the broader community, influencing the national ethos. The enduring legacy extends beyond national borders, showcasing Ireland as a global powerhouse with rich cultural heritage and a tenacious spirit. Victories against formidable opponents affirm Ireland's place among international rugby elites.
The upcoming clash against England marks a crucial moment in the ongoing story of Irish rugby, underscoring the nation's identity and inspiring future generations. When the Irish team steps onto the field, they bear the hopes and dreams of a nation, turning each match into a part of a lasting legacy.
Article by Kate O'Mahony.
Join us on Wednesday 28 January from 11.00am-12.00pm (followed by a Ciorcal Comhrá). Discover the art of making a St Brigid’s Day cross at this bilingual workshop (Instructions in Irish first, followed by the English translation. Suitable for all levels, esp. complete beginners). All welcome, but please book a place in advance by emailing: cis@covirishsoc.org.uk Cost : £3.00 Members / £4.00 Non-Members (to cover materials & light refreshments). A Ciorcal Comhrá (an informal Irish language conversation circle) will follow the workshop (12.00 - 1.00 pm) for those who would like to stay on after the St Brigid’s Workshop and speak some Irish (or just hear it spoken) - all levels welcome!
Join poet Cathy Galvin as she invites you to find a space to look again, and more deeply, at the all-too-familiar landscapes of home. Using texts from her own work, focussed on Connemara and Coventry, she will help you consider what lies beneath and within the landscapes we think we know. Event details : Wednesday 11 March 2026 Doors Open: 5.00 pm Event start time: 5.30 pm Event finish time: 6.30 pm Admission: Free About the Writer, Cathy Galvin Poet, editor and journalist Cathy Galvin has roots in Coventry and Connemara. Her collection, Ethnology, A Love Song for Connemara, is due from Bloodaxe Books in the UK and Ireland in February 2026. Her poetry is widely published and includes the sequences Walking the Coventry Ring Road With Lady Godiva (Guillemot Press), Rough Translation and Black and Blue (The Melos Press). She is founder of the Word Factory and the Sunday Times Short Story Award. View Ethnology, A Love Song for Connemara here. You can follow her on Instagram @cathygalvinwords. Word Factory can be found on Substack How to book: Ticket only event – please book a place in advance by emailing cis@covirishsoc.org.uk , confirming the full names of all attendees.
Join us for this free event on Thursday 29 January 2026 at Coventry Irish Society. The event is free but advance booking is essential - To book, please email: cis@covirishsoc.org.uk and bring your booking confirmation reply to the event. Doors open : 6.00 pm Event discussion : 6.30 – 7.30 pm Event closure : 8.00 pm About Hen Norton: Henrietta Norton is a director, producer and writer whose work explores identity, connection and collective storytelling. Through her production company HOTFEET she develops community centred film projects across documentary, editorial and arts platforms, and is currently developing Mo & Me, a feature documentary about her late stepmother Mo Mowlam, co-produced by Underground Films and Erica Starling. Her work includes The Amber Light, which she produced and which was nominated for Best Documentary Feature Film at the Edinburgh International Film Festival, and Born and Reared, her directorial debut exploring masculinity and identity in contemporary Northern Ireland. Both films reflect her commitment to amplifying underrepresented voices and fostering understanding through story. Alongside her film work, Hen collaborates with artists, activists and community groups across the UK and Ireland. She produced The Unsung HERoes, an exhibition celebrating women peacebuilders, and founded Six Strangers, a digital discussion platform that created space for honest, human connection during Covid. Her practice centres on empathy, participation and the power of shared narratives to inspire social and cultural change. The Coventry Irish Society are proud to host this event with funding support from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade Reconciliation Fund.
