Wales Women endured a tough start to their 2017 Rugby World Cup campaign yesterday as they were beaten 44-12 by one if the tournament favourites New Zealand in Billings Park, Dublin.

Frustratingly for Rowland Phillips' team, after weathering an early storm from the Black Ferns, they enjoyed heavy spells of first half pressure that came to nothing, and the ruthless nature of their opponents paid dividends as they ran in five unconverted tries to lead 25-0 at the break. 

Glen Moore's side went on to score three more times after the break - but when Wales did finally cross the whitewash, it was through Whitland Ladies No 8 Sioned Harries, who capped an impressive personal display by powering over from close range.

Second row Mel Clay also went over for Wales from a late forward drive.

Welsh winger Jasmine Joyce made her World Cup bow, with the Olympian and former Haverfordwest and St Davids RFC player solid in both defence and attack, despite limited opportunities with ball in hand.

And there was a golden moment for 17-year old flanker Lleucu George, who won her first full international cap when she came on as a second half replacement.

And the Pembrokeshire College student immediately looked at home on the World stage - and along with Harries and Joyce, will have high hopes of being involved when Wales play their second Pool C game against Canada on Sunday, with a 5.15pm kick off at the UCD Bowl, Dublin.

That game will again be live on the S4C Chwaraeon Facebook page.