Edinburgh Rugby travel to Parc y Scarlets this Saturday to “right the wrongs” of their narrow 14-7 defeat to Brython Thunder just two weeks ago, as Head Coach, Claire Cruikshank noted. Despite a solid scrum and late try from captain Hannah Walker, Edinburgh fell to a clinical Welsh side at the Hive last time out.

However, Edinburgh have been boosted by the return of Scotland international centre Rachel Philipps, who missed the previous meeting through injury. She joins fellow international Hannah Ramsay in a reinforced midfield, while Emily Love comes in to start at scrum-half. In the pack, Catriona Moody is the sole change, coming in at number eight to join Natasha Logan and Alex Stewart.

Cruikshank has been vocal about the importance of this fixture: “We’re into the business end of the season now, so it’s crucial we start picking up points in the lead-up to the play-offs.”

Brython Thunder v Edinburgh Rugby Saturday 14 February | 12.30pm | Parc y Scarlets | Live on BBC Sport

Glasgow Warriors: Six Changes for Wolfhounds Encounter

On Sunday, the focus shifts to Scotstoun as Glasgow Warriors host the unbeaten Wolfhounds. Head Coach Lindsey Smith has made six changes to a side that has shown grit in recent rounds, notably so in a high-scoring battle against the Clovers where they claimed a vital four-try bonus point despite a 31-38 defeat.

The lineup sees Millie Warren and Briar McNamara continue their promising midfield partnership, while Aicha Sutcliffe moves to loosehead prop in a reshuffled front row that welcomes Megan Hyland at hooker. The back-three features a new look with Scotland U20’s Emily Norval and Claudia McLaren promoted to the wings. Smith is looking for her side to match the clinical edge shown by the Irish leaders: “Wolfhounds have been on an impressive winning streak, but we showed in Cork that we can challenge them. We need to ensure we come out firing in the first half.”

Glasgow Warriors v Wolfhounds Sunday 15 February | 2.00pm | Scotstoun Stadium | Live on YouTube

The Play-off Push

This weekend serves as a vital test for both Edinburgh Rugby and Glasgow Warriors as the race for the post-season intensifies. With every point now critical for seeding, these cross-border clashes are important in deciding who earns the right to compete in the final at Hive Stadium this March.

The post Celtic Challenge Preview: Scottish sides in action this weekend appeared first on Scottish Rugby.

Head Coach Claire Cruikshank confirmed the 35-player group following a period of training with an extended group, with several familiar faces returning to capital action.

The capital’s core squad of eight players, who will all be supported through the centralised Scottish Rugby programme, include Scotland internationals Alex Stewart and Adelle Ferrie, as well as last year’s Player of the Season Hannah Walker.

The complete squad also includes the return of star winger Cieron Bell – Edinburgh’s first-ever try scorer – who will look to continue her impressive scoring record in capital colours.

On the squad, Cruikshank said: “It’s great to have our final squad confirmed for the Celtic Challenge. There’s a lot of talent in the squad, with some that the fans will be familiar with, but also a few youngsters that will be looking to impress in their first involvement in the tournament.

“We’re buzzing to get going, and we’re particularly excited to for the derby day double header against Glasgow on the 27^th. We’ve always had big crowds against the Warriors, so hoping for another big support this year!”

Edinburgh Rugby Women’s squad 2025/26

Forwards

Adelle Ferrie (Corstorphine Cougars)
Aila Ronald (University of Edinburgh)
Alex Stewart (University of Edinburgh)
Alina Prokopenko (Heriot’s)
Alison Wilson (Heriot’s)
Angharad Hopwood (Stirling County)
Cat Moody (University of Edinburgh)
Ellie Moffat (University of Edinburgh)
Faye Sutherland (Heriot’s)
Hannah McMahon (Watsonians)
Kay Lusby (Heriot’s)
Kaylee Fraser (Corstorphine Cougars)
Lauryn McGrotty (Corstorphine Cougars)
Lottie Russell (Watsonians)
Merryn Gunderson (Corstorphine Cougars)
Millie Whitehouse (Watsonians)
Molly Poolman (Watsonians)
Natasha Logan (Stirling County)
Nicola Howat (Watsonians)
Talei Tawake (Watsonians)

Backs

Ami Conchie (Watsonians)
Bethan Mathieson (Heriot’s)
Cieron Bell (Watsonians)
Emily Love (Watsonians)
Hannah Ramsay (Watsonians)
Hannah Walker (University of Edinburgh)
Helen Frater (Heriot’s)
Lisa Brown (University of Edinburgh)
Lucy MacRae (University of Edinburgh)
Morven Thomson (Heriot’s)
Niamh Waters (University of Edinburgh)
Nicole Marlow (Watsonians)
Pip Benson (Corstorphine Cougars)
Scarlett Haddow (Stirling County)
Tamzin Rosie (Heriot’s)

Tickets for all Edinburgh Rugby home matches in the 2025/26 Celtic Challenge are on sale now – click here to secure your seat!

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Both Edinburgh Rugby and Glasgow Warriors will start their campaigns away from home on Saturday 20 December, with Glasgow facing Brython Thunder at Parc Y Scarlets, whilst Edinburgh travel to Ireland to face the Wolfhounds at Energia Park.

They will then look to build momentum early in the competition with the traditional festive derby on 27 December 2025 at Hive Stadium and the season finale rematch on 7 March 2026 at Scotstoun Stadium.

At the conclusion of the 10-round regular season, the top four teams will progress to the play-offs. The two highest-ranked sides will host the semi-finals, with 1st vs 4th and 2nd vs 3rd battling for a place in the inaugural Celtic Challenge Final, where they will compete for the honour of becoming the Celtic Challenge Champions.

Building on the success of last season, every Celtic Challenge match will be broadcast live. This will give fans the chance to follow the competition whether in the stands or from home. Broadcast partners will be announced in the build-up to the competition, ensuring comprehensive coverage for fans across all three nations and beyond.

Gemma Fay, Scottish Rugby’s Head of Women & Girls Strategy said: “The Celtic Challenge continues to play a crucial role in developing the depth and quality of talent in Scotland. This is underpinned by the continued growth of the women’s programmes at Edinburgh Rugby and Glasgow Warriors, where both sides have created strong identities whilst providing opportunities for players to thrive.

Coming off the back of a record-breaking Women’s Rugby World Cup, this season represents another exciting milestone in the growth of women’s rugby in Scotland and across the Celtic nations.”

The post Celtic Challenge fixtures for 2025/26 season announced appeared first on Scottish Rugby.

Following three seasons of impressive growth, rising stars, and record-breaking performances, the Celtic Challenge has established itself as a pivotal competition in the women’s rugby calendar. With planning already underway for further growth over the coming years, the League has high ambitions.

The 2024/25 season proved once again that the Celtic Challenge is a true talent incubator, with 44 players selected across Women’s Rugby World Cup squads, 73 players making the leap to the Guinness Women’s Six Nations last season, and 64 players named in the U20’s Six Nations Women’s Summer Series back in July.

Gemma Fay, Scottish Rugby Head of Women & Girls Strategy said: “The continued evolution of the Celtic Challenge shows the vital contribution this competition plays in connecting our club game to the international stage. We have already seen the impact that both Edinburgh Rugby and Glasgow Warriors have had on the Scotland team and this will only grow as the Celtic Challenge does.”

Off the pitch, momentum continues to build. Last season matches broadcast live on BBC, TG4, RugbyPass TV, and YouTube drew record viewership figures, while crowd numbers and digital engagement surged across all channels.

Full details for the 2025/26 season, including team announcements, fixtures, and broadcast coverage, will follow the conclusion of the Women’s Rugby World Cup in October.

The post New Look Celtic Challenge Finals Reflect Rising Women’s Rugby World Cup Influence appeared first on Scottish Rugby.

Edinburgh Rugby suffered a heartbreaking 38-32 defeat to Brython Thunder in a thrilling Round 7 clash of the Celtic Challenge at Parc y Scarlets. Despite showing resilience and scoring five tries, the Scottish side was undone by a dramatic late double from Wales centre Hannah Bluck.

Edinburgh started brightly, with wing Hannah Walker—who continues to impress as the league’s top try-scorer—crossing early in the corner. Their pack showed dominance, as prop Hannah McMahon powered over, and Lucia Scott added another try before halftime, keeping them in the contest. Fly-half Hannah Macrae’s reliable kicking ensured the visitors remained in contention throughout.

After the break, Edinburgh regained control through a Macrae penalty and two well-executed tries from replacement wing Amy Conchie and number eight Merryn Gunderson, putting them ahead 32-26. However, defensive lapses late in the game proved costly.

Bluck’s decisive brace in the dying minutes left Edinburgh stunned, denying them the victory.

Clovers 41 – 19 Glasgow Warriors

Glasgow Warriors fought hard but fell short in a 41-19 defeat to Clovers in Round 7 of the Celtic Challenge in Cork. Despite a promising start, defensive lapses and Clovers’ relentless attack left the Scottish side unable to overturn the deficit.

The Warriors began well, gaining an early penalty, but a knock-on halted their momentum. Clovers capitalised on turnover ball, with Anna McGann opening the scoring. Amee Leigh Costigan quickly followed with a second try, putting Glasgow under pressure. The visitors suffered a blow when Sky Phimister was forced off injured, disrupting their defensive structure.

Despite Clovers’ aggressive kicking strategy, Glasgow remained competitive. McNamara’s kicking gained territory, and a determined defensive effort held up a Clovers try attempt. However, Emily Lane broke through before halftime, extending the hosts’ lead.

Glasgow found their rhythm just before the break, with Roma Fraser finishing off a well-worked overlap for their first try. In the second half, Holland Bogan powered over the line for their second, and Briar McNamara’s late solo effort added a third. However, Clovers’ clinical finishing, particularly from Costigan, sealed their victory.

Reflecting on the match, Glasgow Warriors’ head coach Lindsey Smith, said:

“We did not show our best game in the first half, the wind was against us and we just did not have much possession. However, in the second half we really turned it around. Scoring just before half time gave us a push and shifted the mindset of the squad.

“We definitely performed really well in that second half in our set piece, scrum and lineouts provided us a solid platform to attack, this was one of our really positives from today. Out of our work ons from today the key one is probably build those phases and turn this type of performance into an 80 minutes one, which is something we need to fix for next week’s fixture.”

Postponement of Round 5 Fixture, Glasgow Warriors vs Clovers

Following the postponement of the Round 5 fixture between Glasgow Warriors and the Clovers, originally scheduled for Saturday 25 January 2025, a meeting of the Organising Committee was held to determine the appropriate action.

After reviewing all relevant facts, the Organising Committee reached the following decision:

Due to severe weather, neither team was deemed responsible for the postponement. Upon review of the available reserve weekends and current fixture schedule, the committee concluded there was insufficient space to re-arrange the fixture. As a result, the match will be recorded as a 0-0 draw, with both teams awarded 2 League points.

The post Celtic Challenge 2024/25: Round 7 Review appeared first on Scottish Rugby.

Edinburgh Rugby endured a tough afternoon in Ystrad Mynach as they fell to a 26-5 defeat against a confident Gwalia Lightning. Despite an encouraging start, the Scottish side struggled to contain the attacking prowess of their Welsh opponents, who secured a bonus point victory.

The visitors got off to the perfect start when winger Hannah Walker crossed for the opening try after an excellent spell of phase play, showcasing Edinburgh’s intent to take the game to Gwalia. However, the hosts responded swiftly, with scrum half Sian Jones darting over to give Lightning a narrow 7-5 lead at halftime.

The second half proved to be a challenging one for Edinburgh as their defensive resilience was tested repeatedly. Skipper Bryonie King powered over from close range, before Wales international Caitlin Lewis demonstrated her pace with a stunning solo effort from halfway. A late fourth try from Courtney Greenway sealed an emphatic win for the Welsh side.

Despite the defeat, Edinburgh showed glimpses of their attacking ability and defensive grit. They will look to regroup and build on their positives as they continue their Celtic Challenge campaign, aiming to turn promising performances into victories in the coming weeks.

Aila Ronald in action against Gwalia Lightning.

Glasgow Warriors 21 – 64 Wolfhounds

Glasgow Warriors faced a formidable challenge at Scotstoun, succumbing to a 64-21 defeat against a clinical Wolfhounds side. Despite the scoreline, the Warriors demonstrated resilience and attacking intent, scoring three well-worked tries.

The hosts struck first through Briar McNamara, who powered over for a try and added the conversion. However, the Wolfhounds responded swiftly, with Leah Tarpey leveling the score after a well-executed move from a scrum. Glasgow remained competitive early on, with strong defensive efforts from Sky Phimister and Roma Fraser keeping the Irish attack at bay.

As the first half progressed, the visitors found their rhythm, exploiting defensive gaps to run in further tries through Eve Higgins, Aoife Wafer, and Linda Djougang, taking a commanding 26-7 lead into halftime.

Glasgow battled hard in the second half, with Ceitidh Ainsworth and Emily Coubrough crossing for impressive tries, showing the Warriors’ determination to fight until the final whistle. Despite their efforts, Wolfhounds continued to capitalise on opportunities, with Higgins completing a hat-trick and further scores from Katie Corrigan and Katie Whelan sealing the result.

Poppy Mellanby, try scorer for Glasgow.

Lindsey Smith, Glasgow Warriors’ head coach shared her post match thoughts: “Obviously the scoreline does not flatter us but, positives compared to the last time we played Wolfhounds were we scored more tries, we defended better at times but there is definitely work to be done in that area. 

“I think we have improved but there is still work that we need to do going into our game next weekend against Clovers.

“Some individuals that performed really well Poppy Mellanby, came in and made a difference to the game. Especially for that third try where she showed her foot work skills to get us out of the 22m deep into the other half with the support of Aicha Sutcliffe and Emily Coubrough going the distance. 

“We showed glimpses of what we can do in attack but we need to be better than we were today to get the results desired.”  

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The experienced Irish outfit showcased their quality from the get-go and led 21-5 at the break after a strong opening 40 minutes. Vice-captain and winger Hannah Walker continued her fine form with Edinburgh’s only score of the first-half.

Edinburgh continued to fight in the second period, and were able to grab further scores from Lauryn Walter and Cieron Bell however Clovers were too strong and ultimately ran out 40-19 winners.

It’s Edinburgh’s first defeat after three round rounds of action having picked up back-to-back bonus point wins over Glasgow Warriors and Brython Thunder.

Head Coach Claire Cruikshank said: “We always knew it was going to a battle coming to Cork and hats off to Clovers, they are a really strong outfit with a lot of experience, and they certainly took their chances this afternoon.

“I’m really proud of how we stayed in the fight and although the full-time scoreline might not suggest it, I saw plenty of growth and maturity in the way we battled, and we can really take the positives out of some our attacking play.

“This year’s Celtic Challenge is so competitive, and teams are continuing to improve week on week. We feel like we’re in a good place as a squad and we’re excited to return home for Round 4 as we take on Gwalia Lightning at Hive Stadium at the end of the month.”

Gwalia Lighting edged a 31-26 victory over Glasgow Warriors. The closely contested match in Wales saw both teams deliver high-quality rugby, with Gwalia clinching the win in the final moments.

The home side struck early, with Rhodd Parry crossing the try-line just three minutes in, converted by Carys Hughes. Glasgow responded at the 15-minute mark, as Briar McNamara finished a strong attack initiated by Mairi McDonald and Ceitidh Ainsworth. Gemma Bell and Sky Phimister added tries for Glasgow, with McNamara converting twice for a 19-7 halftime lead.

In the second half, Gwalia mounted a comeback. Alaw Pyrs scored early, followed by Courtney Greenway’s two late tries, earning Gwalia a bonus point. Glasgow’s McNamara added a fourth try for her side, but Gwalia’s relentless pressure paid off as Bryonie King’s last-minute try, converted by Hughes, sealed their victory.

Despite the loss, Glasgow earned two bonus points for scoring four tries and losing within seven.

Glasgow’s captain for the match Mairi McDonald shared her thoughts: “I thought the game today was a good showcase of how we can play. It was a physical game and Gwalia brought it to us, we adapted well and managed to score some nice tries. We have a week break now, so it’s a good time for us to review the game, look at what we can work on and continue to build on our performances. 

To get 2 bonus points is a great positive for us and now we have to keep improving as a full squad and we will look forward to seeing Gwalia again when they come to Scotstoun.”

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Number 8 Sam Taganekurukuru opened the scoring for Edinburgh after breaking through wide channels, followed by vice-captain Hannah Walker’s fourth try of the season. Scrum-half Rhea Clarke’s quick tap set up winger Cieron Bell to extend the lead, with Lucy MacRae converting to make it 17-0 at halftime.

Brython Thunder responded strongly in the second half. Full-back Hannah Lane crossed the try-line early, and Hannah Bluck followed with a powerful run to narrow the gap to 17-10. This resurgence jolted Edinburgh into action, and they regained momentum with quick hands and sharp execution in the Thunder 22, allowing Bell to grab her second try and secure the crucial bonus point.

Despite Bluck’s late second try, Edinburgh held firm to seal a 22-15 victory. Claire Cruikshank’s team showcased resilience and attacking flair, winning key physical battles and capitalizing on scoring opportunities.

The victory keeps Edinburgh in contention at the top of the table, setting a strong tone for the season as they continue their unbeaten run.

For Glasgow Warriors, Round 3 ended in defeat. Wolfhounds claimed a dominant 48-7 victory.

Wolfhounds struck early, with Linda Djougang opening the scoring in the fourth minute after Eve Higgins broke through Glasgow’s defense. Dannah O’Brien’s successful conversion made it 7-0. Katie Corrigan added a second try at 15 minutes, finishing a well-executed lineout and attack on the right wing, with O’Brien again converting. Erin King extended the lead, exploiting gaps on the left wing for another try, though the conversion hit the post.

Glasgow showed flashes of strength in scrums and lineouts but struggled to convert opportunities into points. Wolfhounds capitalized, adding three more first-half tries from Niamh O’Dowd, and second efforts from Corrigan and King. O’Brien converted two of three, giving the hosts a commanding 36-0 halftime lead.

After the break, Glasgow’s defense improved, and captain Ailie Tucker scored their lone try off a strong scrum. Briar McNamara added the conversion. However, Wolfhounds continued their dominance with second-half tries from Higgins and Corrigan, completing her hat trick.

Glasgow impressed in scrums and tackles, with standout performances from Sky Phimister and Orla Proctor, but couldn’t match Wolfhounds’ clinical attack.

The post Celtic Challenge 2024/25: Round 3 Review appeared first on Scottish Rugby.

Glasgow struck early, with Sky Phimister scoring under the posts, converted by Lisa Martin, who also added a penalty to make it 10-0 within 15 minutes. Edinburgh responded through Hannah Walker’s try, converted by Lucy MacRae, before Walker capitalized on a well-executed lineout to add another. MacRae’s conversion gave Edinburgh their first lead.

Edinburgh seized control with three more tries before halftime from Aila Roland,  Cieron Bell and Scotland international, Lucia Scott, heading into the break 34-10 up.

The second half began with another Edinburgh try, Bell completing a move initiated by Walker. Glasgow’s strength in the scrum paid off when Erinn Foley crossed the line, though the conversion hit the posts.

Edinburgh dominated the closing stages, showcasing their attacking depth with tries from Shona Campbell, Walker, Talei Tawake, and Faye Sutherland. Despite Glasgow’s efforts, Edinburgh’s balanced defense and relentless offense secured a commanding victory.

The final whistle marked a thrilling contest, setting the tone for the Celtic Challenge.

Watch highlights, here.

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Celtic Challenge Fixtures and Results

Squads

Edinburgh Rugby’s Head Coach, Claire Cruikshank has confirmed a 30-player roster featuring a blend of returning talent and emerging prospects.

Notably, several players have been involved in Scotland women’s squads since last season’s Celtic Challenge including Alex Stewart, who earned her first cap against Wales in the 2024 Guinness Women’s Six Nations, and Aila Ronald, who traveled to South Africa as part of Scotland’s WXV2 squad.

Additionally, Hannah Walker, who captained Scotland U20 during the summer, returns to action in the back-three. Other returning faces from the U20 squad include Molly Poolman (tighthead), Natasha Logan (lock) and Merryn Gunderson (back-row).

Glasgow Warriors Head Coach, Lindsey Smith has also named a 30-strong core squad.

10 of the playing group that will kick off their campaign against Edinburgh in just under a fortnight’s time return from the squad’s inaugural season, with nine clubs represented across the cohort selected by Smith and her coaching team.

The club’s 2023/24 Coaches’ Player of the Season and Players’ Player of the Season both return for 2024/25, as Holland Bogan – who trained with the senior Scotland setup ahead of their recent WXV2 campaign – and Ailie Tucker are included amongst Smith’s playing group.

Arnold Clark Premiership finalists, Stirling County, contribute the most players to the squad with seven, including returning Warriors in the form of Bogan, Ceitidh Ainsworth, Sky Phimister and Aicha Sutcliffe.

Sarah Murdoch and Maia MacDonald join their Bridgehaugh club-mates in the Glasgow setup, as does former Scotland winger Abi Evans after impressing following her move to Stirling County from Saracens.

Evans’ former Scotland team-mate, Lisa Martin, is also included, the fly-half/centre bringing over 50 caps of international experience to the Warriors for the 2024/25 season.

Scotland U18 standout Poppy Mellanby is the youngest member of the squad, the fly-half joining Biggar squad-mate Poppy Clarkson in the 30-strong squad.

About the Celtic Challenge

Celtic Challenge Tickets

The Celtic Challenge is the first Women’s domestic Cross-Border Competition. The League is played between 6 Teams across 3 nations over 10 rounds. At the end of the season, the team with the highest table standing will be crowned Champions.

The League is designed to develop and inspire World Class performance through elite Competition, it is the highest form of domestic rugby across Wales, Scotland, and Ireland and acts as a pathway for current and future International Talent.

All Celtic Challenge fixtures will be streamed live in the UK on BBC iPlayer and the BBC Sport website. In addition to the live broadcasts, the BBC’s coverage across platforms will include results, news stories, analysis, and highlights of key moments throughout the season.  In addition, RugbyPass TV will broadcast one featured match per round of the Celtic Challenge, giving supporters around the world free access to the league’s most compelling fixtures.

Celtic Challenge Fixtures

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