The Wallaroos' win against Japan was the first at Test level for many, including star No. 8 Grace Hamilton.
The 29-15 win was reward for hard work, as this is a markedly better team than the one that lost three Tests in New Zealand as World Cup preparation.
"I think that's what we needed," Hamilton said.
"We really needed some positivity and that's the first time I have ever won in this jumper.
"It's massive and I didn't want to go home without the win today."
Hamilton's side showed fighting qualities through the win, as Japan again showed they have also taken big strides.
They pushed Ireland to the very end and today, they made the Wallaroos work very hard for their first World Cup win.
"We just kept fighting," Hamilton said.
"Japan were all over us in some stages, they're speedy little girls but we came out with a win in a physical match."
The win is extra special for women such as Hamilton, who have had family and friends make the trip to Ireland.
"Having mum and dad here, my brother and the rest of my family has just been amazing," she said.
"I can't believe they have come all this way.
"Mum actually leaves after today so that was really special for me.
"I really wanted to win so she could see us win."
The team will now head to Belfast, where they will fight for a fifth place finish.
"We just have to keep moving forward and build on what we have now," Hamilton said.
"We have a platform now so we just have to keep getting better."
