Prop Ellena Perry says Spain pushed Ireland “right to the end” in her side’s 43-27 win at Franklin’s Gardens.
Barring a Japan miracle win over New Zealand, a seven-try victory should send Ireland into the Women’s Rugby World Cup quarter-finals for the first time since 2014 after a tough test in Northampton.
Perry, named player of the match on her first start, told BBC Two: “They really did [test us]. We knew all week they would come out firing and fair play to them, it was a tough game.
“We knew they were going to be tough competitors all game, and they pushed us right to the end.
“We just needed to get front-foot ball and make sure we kept possession; it was difficult but pleased to get the win.”
After beating Japan in their opener, Scott Bemand’s side have now won both their two Pool C games to almost certainly reach the knockout stage with a game to spare.
They face New Zealand next Sunday in their final pool game in Brighton, aiming to secure top spot.
And the fixture against the World Cup holders is one Perry will relish.
“Two bonus-point wins which we can’t fault but plenty of learnings this weekend and we’re really excited for a big game in Brighton next week,” she added.
