Higgins strikes as Ireland see off Japan in Women's Rugby World Cup

Japan were on the attack and pressing for another try, at 28-14 down, before inside centre Higgins picked off a floating pass and ran the length of the field to score.

Her try left Japan with too much of a mountain to climb in this Pool C clash after Ireland wing Amee-Leigh Costigan's fifth-minute try had broken the deadlock.

Ireland's physical superiority was rewarded by a maul try from Neve Jones before Japan, playing well with ball in hand, deservedly got on the scoreboard with a close-range score from Haruka Hirotsu.

But Ireland wings Costigan and Beibhinn Parsons combined expertly for a fine try before Fiona Tuite was the willing recipient of Higgins' slick footwork in midfield.

Japan's maul made an impact in the second half, paving the way for a try from flanker Masami Kawamura, before Higgins's interception put the result beyond doubt.

Ireland replacement Enya Breen added another try late on.

Elsewhere in Pool C, reigning champions New Zealand begin their title defence against Spain later Sunday, with newcomers Brazil -- the first South American nation to feature at a Women's Rugby World Cup -- in action against South Africa.