A difficult final shouldn't take the shine off a great season. On a blustery day afternoon at Myreside, a bright start by Watsonian Women was eventually dampened as Stirling County overcame a 19-0 deficit to defeat Watsonians 26-19 and retain the Women's Premiership rugby title. Playing at Watsonians' home ground after they topped the regular season standings, the hosts utilised the wind to build a commanding lead in the first half. In the 2nd minute, the home team managed to cross the line after a scrum in the centre of the park. Some quick hands and nimble feet sent Shannon Macey over. Ten minutes later, it was Molly Poolman who finished a similar move. After the County backs slowed an attack, the Sonians forwards took over, recycling the ball, and Poolman smashed over. This time, McNamara added the extras. Then, at the 20-minute mark, Lucy Winter finished another promising attack from the forwards. McNamara kicked to touch this time, and the forwards calmly went through the phases, inching forward until Winter dropped over the line. Again, McNamara added the extras. However, County showcased their resilience to get on the board through stand-out fly-half Ceitidh Ainsworth, cutting the deficit to 19-7 at halftime. Stirling continued to apply pressure after the break, with relentless carries up the middle.
Image: N50 Sports
Tries from Chloe Brown and another from Ainsworth swung the momentum in County's favour at 21-19. In a frantic finale, Watsonians built a promising attack and looked like they'd socred before the referee deemed them short. Then, within minutes, Fi Keys sealed the victory for Stirling with a late try in the corner. While Watsonian Women will lament not capitalising on their bright start, credit has to be given to Stirling County for an incredible comeback.
But not all is lost.
Watsonian Women played a fantastic season, and despite a loss in the final, they will take pride in their performance over 14 games, with 13 wins and a draw rounding out an unbeaten season. As a further positive, the side had ten players called up to play for Edinburgh and Glasgow in the newly expanded Celtic Challenge, showing the quality of players the team has produced. If you are interested in joining Watsonian Women contact women@watsoniansrugby.com.
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