Bemand notes 'mindset shift' in Irish women's game

After a fallow week, Ireland will be aiming to bounce back from disappointment in Clermont when they host Wales in Belfast on Saturday.

While Bemand said he has been "really pleased" with the opportunities Ireland have created in all three games, he wants his side to be more clinical against a Welsh side that are without a win but did score 26 points against England in their previous game.

"We just need to take our points when they're there. We did that in spades in the first half against Italy but we know there are two halves and we think there were still points out there to be gained," he added.

"We want a fast start and to keep going deeper into the game. If we can keep the performance levels, the result will take care of itself. Hopefully we give the people of Belfast something to shout about."

The 47-year-old has also praised Erin King for stepping seamlessly into the role of captain at 22 in this year's tournament.

"She's an absolute pleasure to work with. You can see the energy and passion that she brings into a media room. She's so incredibly driven," Bemand explained.

"I picked her and I used the Sam Warbuton model, we wanted a player people would follow. We wanted her to lead the charge and she's a great role model for how to get continually better. She's growing all the time and uses her leadership group really well – that's been her biggest leap.

"The amount of support she gets from Fiona Tuite is great. If Erin is the follow me, Fiona is the calm lineout caller and a voice of reason who sits behind it. One person can never shoulder all the pressure, so I'm delighted with how Erin is growing in the space and how the leadership triangle has grown too."