This match will be remembered not for the scoreline, but for the sheer emotion it carried. For long spells it was heartbreaking to watch our girls pushed back under wave after wave of Burton’s excellent, clinical rugby — but right at the death, the girls delivered a moment of pure pride that lifted the coaches, the supporters, and the players themselves.

Burton came into the match with a reputation for outstanding breakdown work and quick, accurate play. We’d spoken all week about the need to tighten pod support, ice rucks, and use line speed to disrupt flow. But as honest as we must be — we didn’t execute the plan.

Yes, we iced the rucks… but without the defensive line set behind it, Burton were gifted space and time, and a team that good does not need asking twice.

Defensive Contrasts:
One of the hardest parts to watch was the huge contrast in defensive commitment.

We have several girls who are relentless in defence — tackle after tackle, no hesitation, no fear, whilst others were less determined.

The team will continue to work on its game understanding, and that will improve performances, all players need to continue their development and challenge themselves harder to assert pressure onto the opposition.

Individual Brilliance:
Despite the struggles, there were moments of brilliance, specifically:
Izzy set the tone early with a bone-shaking tackle on Burton’s biggest carrier.

Constance and Stephanie quickly followed — both delivering a masterclass in committed, determined defence.

G’s try-saving tackle and steal on our own line was astonishing — easily one of the moments of the match.

Willow, playing out of position at fullback, was superb under pressure — tracking back, fielding awkward kicks, and organising the defence.

And all of this while several girls played unfamiliar roles due to injuries and absences. They stepped up without complaint. That alone earns respect.

The 50-Point Question:
Burton hit the 50-point mark in the second half, the referee, coaches and players all discussed the options and with the result confirmed 0-50 a friendly format was agreed and game time continued.

Pride Restored:
The final charge toward the Burton try line will live long in the memory.

Runs from Constance, then Siteri — who came inches from scoring herself — pushed Tamworth right onto the 5m line.

We earned a penalty, and before Burton could reset, Stephanie made a brilliant decision to tap and go.

She released the ball perfectly to a charging Izzy, who charged through the defence and crashed over the line — greeted by a roar from both sets of supporters.

A try that meant everything.
A try that restored pride.
A try that showed exactly who these girls really are.

Does last try win?

Dames of the Game:
Forwards – Constance
Captain Fantastic. A leader in every sense — aggressive, relentless, and inspirational. Huge defensive work and strong carries all match.

Backs – Stephanie
A defensive general. Brave, smart, and unshakably committed. Controlled play superbly and made the key decision that led to the try.

Post-Match Reflections:
Despite the heartbreak, pride shone through. These girls have talent, resilience, and heart — and days like this help shape great teams.