Zac Ward, Darragh Murray, Cormac Izuchukwu, Stephen Smyth, and Gus McCarthy all contributed tries in the win. According to the Irish Examiner, this match marked the first of three games for the team in the southern hemisphere, with upcoming fixtures against Western Force and The Cheetahs scheduled for October 6th and 9th.

Despite early pressure from the Pumas, Emerging Ireland gradually gained control in the opposition half. After a patient buildup, they opened the scoring in the 14th minute when Ward—fresh from his appearance at the Paris Olympics with the Ireland 7s—darted in from the left wing, beating several defenders to score.

Although Sam Prendergast missed the conversion, Emerging Ireland had made a statement at the Bloemfontein venue. Captain Alex Kendellen was leading by example, while flanker Cormac Izuchukwu stood out with key contributions. Near the 30-minute mark, Izuchukwu set up Connacht lock Murray for the second try, driving through a gap near the Pumas’ line.



The Pumas responded with a well-executed try from Lundi Msenge, converted after strong lead-up play by Tino Swanepoel. However, Izuchukwu regained momentum for Ireland by scoring just before halftime.

Although the Pumas scored late tries through Eduan Swart and Swanepoel, a 76th-minute penalty try for Emerging Ireland ensured a comfortable win to close out the game.