With two wins to date in the World Cup qualifiers, Ireland know two more will seal a place at the 15th edition of the Women's World Cup next July in Spain and the Netherlands.
The Green Army proved far too strong for France in Pisa on Thursday. Second-half corner goals from Róisín Upton and Hannah McLoughlin settled the nerves before a flurry of late goals saw Zara Malseed and debutante Niamh Carey also get on the mark.
Chloe Watkins, a key member of the team that claimed silver at the 2018 World Cup, said that despite playing a side ranked 15 places below them in the world, it was always going to be a challenge.
"We knew France would be gunning for this, they have been building for so long," she said afterwards. "They are working towards Paris 2024.
"Ultimately, it's probably been the biggest tournament of our year. It’s been a very busy year for us with European Championships and Olympics, so after a bit of down time, which was much needed, it was great to see the girls again and get back in green."
We're here to qualify for the World Cup and that’s the most important thing
Next up is a semi-final date with Belarus on Saturday morning (11am), where Ireland will be fancied to make it through to the final of the eight-team competition.
Only the competition winner will advance to next year’s games and Watkins admits that there is also the bigger picture to think about for Irish hockey.
"It was about resetting and doing a job now that is so important for the future of our programme.
"We’re here to qualify for the World Cup and that’s the most important thing."
