The Royal Logistics Corps/Infantry lifted the Women’s Corps Championship trophy in Aldershot on Corps Championship finals day, making it an International Women’s Day to remember.
But while the RLC/Infantry would score the game’s only tries, they were pushed all the way by a determined Royal Artillery/Royal Armoured Corps/Army Air Corps outfit at the home of Army Rugby.
Indeed, the RA/RAC/AAC scored the only points of a first half in which opportunities were at a premium. Fly half Gnr Stratford-Dunks landed a good penalty from the 22 following some RLC/Inf comments which reversed a decision which had initially gone their own way.
Trailing 0-3 at the break the RLC/Inf maintained their composure in the second half, some patient phase play and well-chosen passing options working them upfield and over the whitewash, Pte King going over from close range.
The hooker also played an important part in setting up the RLC/Inf’s second try with a powerful run which broke through a number of tackles. Again the ball retention was key, and with straight running and well-timed passing Pte Saqanavere was over in the corner.
The RA/RAC/AAC did have the final say, Gnr Stratford-Dunks kicking a three-pointer from in front of the sticks. But they were unable to get the try they needed, and instead it was the team in blue who were celebrating when the final whistle blew.
“I’m so proud,” commented RLC/Inf Head Coach, SSgt Keith Bird. “The players have pulled out blinders all season. They’ve done everything I’ve asked, they’ve emptied the tank every single game, and it shows today the hard work they’ve put in and what it means to them.
“That horrible weather, the conditions, they did exactly what we wanted of them.
“Our season has been about getting a feel for what’s going on, and then all of a sudden we’re back in the game and smashing through.”
On International Women’s Day, SSgt Bird added that it had been an important occasion for Women’s rugby in the Army.
“It’s so huge, and that’s going to be heard loud and proud in the changing room,” he added.
Pte Jasmine Conn lifted the trophy before a well deserved retreat into the warmth to give her thoughts.
“The conditions were horrible, but the girls put in loads of graft, it was great,” she said. “It’s amazing for the girls to play in Aldershot, for us to be undefeated all season, and the atmosphere on and off the pitch is amazing.”
There is more rugby back in Aldershot on Wednesday, March 15th, when the Senior Men host the French Army. Kick off is 1900hrs, and all are welcome.
Tickets for the 2023 Inter-Services Championship are now on sale.
CLICK HERE for information about the Army v RAF at Kingsholm, Gloucester, on Saturday, April 15th.
CLICK HERE for information about Army Navy at Twickenham on Saturday, May 13th.
Words © New Dogs, Old Tricks
All images – Alligin Photography © Andrew Fosker
