Ireland retain the Trophy after a four day battle at Carrickmines. 

 Matches between Ireland and USA began in the 1990s but have lapsed of late, since USA became a Tier 1 nation with a place in the McRobertson Shield, so this year's match was the first since 2011. A new format was agreed, whereby both AC and GC would be played and each side looked to have equal participation of genders.  
USA sent a team of 5, there being one late withdrawal for health reasons, so Alan Looney agreed to play as a sub on the US side. The Irish squad was Danny Johnston, Simon Williams, Sandy Greig, Fred Rogerson, Jane Morrison, Nathaniel Healy and Clair Whyms. Play was planned for 4 days, with equal amounts of AC and GC, both singles and doubles. All matches were to be best of three.  
Ireland tended to come out on top of the AC matches but USA held its own in GC. By Wednesday evening, when a 6pm guillotine on play was enforced, Ireland held a 14- 7 lead and USA needed a strong morning on Thursday to extend the match. Although they won 3 of the morning's AC matches (reduced to single games) this was not enough to deny the Irish an unassailable lead, so Ireland was declared the victor at 16 - 10. 
 All matches were played in a thoroughly sporting atmosphere and the Americans proved to be both tough opponents and gracious guests. Many thanks to Carrickmines and all who helped make the occasion a success.