USA Women's 15s Head Coach Rob Cain has made nine changes from last week’s game with Canada as the USA faces Ireland on Friday at 2:15 PM ET.

The game will be shown live on FloRugby.com.

This will be the first-ever women's test match at the RDS Arena (Royal Dublin Society).

Catie Benson starts at prop with Nick James named to the reserves while Alycia Washington returns to start at lock. Rachel Ehrecke is in at flanker with Elizabeth Cairns named to the reserves and Megan Foster suits up at flyhalf. Amy Bonte starts at center with Tess Feury in at wing for Alev Kelter and Ilona Maher, who return to sevens residency.

Kayla Canett will start at fullback with McKenzie Hawkins named to the reserves. Kathryn Treder, who hasn't been capped in two years, is on the bench, while Sarah Levy comes back to the roster and is also among the reserves.

This is a big game for the USA coming off a series loss to Canada. With the USA ranked #6 in the world and Ireland #8, the USA have a bit of a statement to make with a win. Ireland last played in September when they lost narrowly to Scotland in the European World Cup qualifier.

While the USA lost the Pacific Four Regional Series to Canada, Cain’s side showed some improvement. In what was their first test rugby since the pandemic, the Eagles lost by only 19 points on aggregate compared to 44 points just two years prior. Still, there were too many errors in finishing and support work especially.

“Thank you to the players and staff who were part of our first two matches," said Cain. "To the players who left us, you will all be missed. It is always especially hard to say goodbye to people who leave through injury and we hope to see them back soon. The group remaining are under no illusions as to how strong a test Ireland will present. The fact that they’ve played seven test matches through the pandemic gives us another great platform to challenge where we are.

“The Canada series allowed us to get some positive answers individually and collectively both in our technical and tactical execution. The players’ effort has been incredible as they’ve changed so much in terms of their rugby. That said, it has also been a frustrating two weeks, especially when this hard work and evolution hasn't always translated in real time.

“To have momentum and the opportunity to win both test matches slip away at crucial times after some real positive moments prior has shown the progress being made but also highlighted how, at critical times, our focus, execution and precision needs to always be at the highest level. We are excited at the prospect of this squad bringing those key learnings to life this Friday.”

Ireland runs out an experienced team.

“We have had two good weeks of preparation for the Autumn Tests and the group are excited to get back out on the pitch and put that hard work into action," said Head Coach Adam Griggs. "A first Test at the RDS under Friday night lights will be a special occasion and we’re looking forward to having family, friends and our supporters back in the stands to get behind us.”