The ladies faced their final league game of the season against top of the table Guernsey and although the result didn’t go our way, the performance was nothing short of outstanding.

With an early start, a flight to get there and scorching hot conditions to contend with, the team could have been forgiven for feeling the effects before the game even began. Instead, they produced one of their best performances of the season, full of heart, grit, commitment and pride for the game of women’s rugby. With powerful unrelenting scrums from the start, accurate lineouts and amazing tactical play throughout.

Guernsey showed exactly why they sit at the top of the league, bringing intensity and quality across the pitch. But our ladies met them head on. Every player stepped up, worked for each other and refused to give up, putting in a performance that truly showed the spirit of the team and such promise for the future. Successfully holding them back for the first 15 minutes of the first half and again for the second.

It’s difficult to single out individuals when the whole squad played so well, but there were some standout moments. Issy Carrick was immense throughout, putting in a great tackle and making several try saving tackles when Guernsey looked certain to score. Dibs also produced brilliant try saving tackles, showing real determination and defensive strength.

Emilia brought huge physicality with some big hits and incredible commitment from start to finish, while Sophie Day made some excellent runs that helped push the team forward. Sophie Harvey chased everything with full commitment throughout the game, never giving Guernsey an easy moment.

The final score may not have reflected the effort, but this was a performance the whole team should be hugely proud of. Against the strongest side in the league, in difficult conditions and after a demanding journey, the ladies played the game of their lives.

Player of the Match: Issy Carrick
Back of the Match: Emilia Byrne
Forward of the Match: Amy Muggeridge

Sian Lewis was taken to hospital with a broken ankle and now has a fancy boot to wear, this suspension and padding too, we all wish her a speedy recovery. Millie Wilson took one of the biggest tackles which knocked the wind out of her sails in the second half, hopefully some R&R will sort her out.

A tough result, but an incredible team performance to end the league season. The effort, heart and commitment shown by every player was something special.