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.

Arnold Clark Premiership finalists Stirling County once again provide the largest number of players to the Glasgow Warriors squad, as 13 players from the Bridgehaugh outfit prepare to suit up for Smith’s squad across the 2025/26 season.

Included amongst that cohort are last season’s vice-captains Holland Bogan and Ceitidh Ainsworth, the latter of whom is joined by elder sister Ciorstaidh – a Scotland international in rugby league – for the first time.

Sky Phimister – scorer of the first try in last season’s Celtic Challenge -, Rebekah Douglas, Emily Norval, Gemma Thomson and Aicha Sutcliffe complete the cohort of returning Warriors from the Stirling setup, whilst Daisy Morrison, Samaanther Taganekurukuru and Sophie Murphy will be looking to pull on a Glasgow jersey for the first time.

Briar McNamara and Freya Walker are selected from Stirling’s opponents in the Premiership Final, Watsonians, the former returning after topping the points charts for the Warriors last season.

Hillhead Jordanhill provide six players to Smith’s setup, with new recruits Hannah Dunnett and Isla Gillan joining Eilidh MacGilvray, Abi Evans, Rianna Darroch and Millie Warren amongst the 35-strong group.

Poppy Mellanby – who became the club’s youngest-ever player when making her debut at just 17 years old last season – is one of five University of Edinburgh players selected after a strong BUCS campaign to date, the utility back linking up with Nicole Flynn, Poppy Fletcher, Imogen Spence and Emily Coubrough at Scotstoun.

Returning for a third campaign as a Glasgow Warrior, Megan Hyland is joined by Heriot’s squad-mate Gracie Ostey, whilst Shelley Main and Robyn Gibson make it a brace of players selected from Ayr RFC.

Neve Finlay is selected in the front-row after catching the eye for Wigtownshire RFC, with Robyn Allan flying the flag for Biggar amongst the backs.

Gemma Bell and Katie Lindsay complete the core squad, the former having made her Scotland debut away to England in last year’s Guinness Six Nations.

Speaking following the announcement, Head Coach Smith told glasgowwarriors.org: “I’m excited to see the development of this playing group as we look to build upon the progress of last season.

“We’ve got a good blend of consistency, with 24 players having represented the club in previous seasons, and fresh faces, with everyone keen to be involved and driving each other forwards.

“I believe this is a group with a great deal of potential, and I’m looking forward to seeing how this group comes together and fights for the badge on their chest when the Celtic Challenge kicks off.”

Glasgow Warriors core squad for the 2025/26 Celtic Challenge

Props

Neve Finlay (Wigtownshire RFC)
Poppy Fletcher (University of Edinburgh)
Isla Gillan (Hillhead Jordanhill)
Katie Lindsay (Corstorphine Cougars)
Imogen Spence (University of Edinburgh)

Hookers

Megan Hyland (Heriot’s)
Nikki Simpson (Garioch RFC)
Aicha Sutcliffe (Stirling County)

Second Row

Ciorstaidh Ainsworth (Stirling County)
Holland Bogan (Stirling County)
Daisy Morrison (Stirling County)
Sophie Murphy (Stirling County)
Ellie Williamson (Stirling County)

Back Row

Gemma Bell (Hartpury University)
Emily Coubrough (University of Edinburgh)
Eilidh MacGilvray (Hillhead Jordanhill)
Shelley Main (Ayr RFC)
Samaanther Taganekurukuru (Stirling County)
Gemma Thomson (Stirling County)
Freya Walker (Watsonians)

Half Backs

Ceitidh Ainsworth (Stirling County)
Rianna Darroch (Hillhead Jordanhill)
Rebekah Douglas (Stirling County)
Hannah Dunnett (Hillhead Jordanhill)

Centres

Robyn Allan (Biggar RFC)
Nicole Flynn (Stirling County)
Claudia McLaren (Stirling County)
Briar McNamara (Watsonians)
Millie Warren (Hillhead Jordanhill)

Back Three

Abi Evans (Hillhead Jordanhill)
Robynn Gibson (Ayr RFC)
Poppy Mellanby (University of Edinburgh)
Emily Norval (Stirling County)
Sky Phimister (Stirling County)

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

The post Glasgow Warriors announce 2025/26 Celtic Challenge squad 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.”  

The post Celtic Challenge 2024/25 | Round 6 Review appeared first on Scottish Rugby.

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.”

The post Celtic Challenge 2024/25: Round 4 Review appeared first on Scottish Rugby.

Edinburgh Rugby and Glasgow Warriors will next face Brython Thunder and Wolfhound respectively, with Edinburgh hosting at Hive and Glasgow traveling to Kingspan Stadium on Saturday 4 January.

Both sides will travel for the next round with Edinburgh Rugby facing the Clovers at Virgin Media Park in Cork on Saturday 11 January (kick off 3pm), whilst Glasgow Warriors travel to Ystrad Mynach to face Gwalia Lightning on Sunday 12 January (kick off 1pm).

In Round 5, both Scottish teams will host with Glasgow welcoming the Clovers to Scotstoun on Saturday 25 January (kick off 1pm) and Edinburgh hosting Gwalia Lightning at Hive Stadium the following day (kick off 11.30am).

The following weekend Glasgow Warriors will host the Irish once again, this time, the Wolfhounds (Saturday 1 February, kick off 11.30am) whilst Edinburgh travel to Ystrad Mynach to take on Gwalia Lightning. Their game kicks off at 2pm.

Both sides will travel in Round 7 with Edinburgh returning to Wales to face Brython Thunder at Parc Y Scarlets on Saturday 8 February (kick off12.30pm). Glasgow Warriors will face the Clovers the following day at Virgin Media Park in Cork in a double header fixture which will see the Wolfhounds face Gwalia Lightning.

Glasgow Warriors and Edinburgh Rugby will face off in their Round 2 fixture on Saturday 15 February at Scotstoun Stadium (kick off 2pm). This fixture has been moved to the second reserve weekend.

The two sides will again host in Round 8 and Round 9 welcoming Gwalia Lightning and Wolfhounds to Scotland on Saturday 22 February and then the Clovers and Brython Thunder on Saturday 1 March.

The final round will see both sides on the road with Edinburgh facing the Wolffounds at Energia Park and Glasgow taking on Brython Thunder at Parc Y Scarlets.

Fixture list of both Scottish teams:
Friday 20 December: Edinburgh v Glasgow, Hive Stadium (kick off 7:35pm)
Saturday 4 January: Edinburgh vs Brython Thunder, Hive Stadium (kick off 2pm)
Sunday 5 January: Wolfhounds v Glasgow Warriors, Kingspan Stadium (kick off 2:30pm)
Saturday 11 January: Clovers vs Edinburgh, Virgin Media Park Cork (kick off 3pm)
Sunday 12 January: Gwalia Lightning vs Glasgow Warriors, Ystrad Mynach (kick off 1pm)
Saturday 25 January: Glasgow Warriors v Clovers, Scotstoun Stadium (kick off 1pm)
Sunday 26 January: Edinburgh vs Gwalia Lightning, Hive Stadium (kick off 11:30am)
Saturday 1 February: Gwalia Lightning vs Edinburgh, Ystrad Mynach (kick off 2pm)
Saturday 1 February: Glasgow Warriors v Wolfhounds, Scotstoun Stadium (kick off 11:30pm)
Saturday 8 February: Brython Thunder vs Edinburgh, Parc y Scarlets (kick off 12:30pm)
Saturday 8 February: Clovers v Glasgow Warriors, Virgin Media Parkm Cork (kick off 3:30pm)
Saturday 15 February: Glasgow vs Edinburgh, Scotstoun Stadium (kick off 2pm)
Saturday 22 February: Edinburgh vs Wolfhounds, Hive Stadium (kick off 2pm)
Saturday 22 February: Glasgow Warriors vs Gwalia Lightning, Scotstoun Stadium (kick off 1pm)
Saturday 1 March: Edinburgh vs Clovers, Hive Stadium (kick off 1pm)
Saturday 1 March: Glasgow Warriors vs Brython Thunder (kick off 3:45pm)
Saturday 8 March: Wolfhounds vs Edinburgh, Energia Park (kick off 12:15pm)
Sunday 9 March: Brython Thunder vs Glasgow Warriors, Parc Y Scarlets (kick off 12 noon)

The post Celtic Challenge 2024/25 fixtures announced appeared first on Scottish Rugby.

Holland Bogan

Holland started playing rugby aged 12 at Eastwood High School before joining Cartha Queens Park, where she played at youth level and in her first year of senior rugby.

“I remember I was playing football at school and I could see kids playing rugby. I wasn’t that good at football and I just remember thinking ‘that looks way more fun’, so I decided to give rugby a go and it was way more fun, so it just stuck”, said Holland.

Continuing her rugby journey at school and Cartha Queens Park, Holland later went on to be selected for the Girls Regional Game Series, where she shone for the West and was picked up for Age-grade Representative fixtures. In 2022 she featured for Scotland U18 Six Nations and the following year was made captain for the side.

“Being captain was a challenge, but I was really grateful for the experience. It taught me a lot about leadership roles and adapting to new situations and people.”

The 2023/24 season was a big one for the dynamic lock. After joining Stirling County, Holland went on to feature for them in their Premiership title winning match against Watsonians FC.

Following the thrilling final, Holland was drafted for Glasgow Warriors in the Celtic Challenge and made seven appearances for the capital side, where she made 72 carries and 107 tackles, hitting over 100 rucks and scoring one try. In June at the Warriors awards night, Holland was recognised for her talents, receiving the Coaches Player of the Season award.

Holland receives Coaches Player of the Season award.

Speaking about the Celtic Challenge, Holland said: “The Celtic Challenge has definitely pushed my development and my skillset. Playing with and against international players has been really important, it’s given me insight on what level I need to be at to get there and it’s shown me what I can strive towards.

“I think it’s just really important for the women’s game in general as well, it had a lot of media attention and the buy in from Glasgow Warriors, it was so good.”

Looking ahead to the opportunity this summer, Holland is excited for the next step in her rugby career, saying: “Playing for Scotland Women U20 means a lot and having Six Nations support does too. It’s great to have this as a structure, it means we can play against other countries, so I think it’s really good exposure for our development. I’m excited what we can do as a team.”

The post Meet the Players | Holland Bogan | Scotland Women U20 appeared first on Scottish Rugby.

Edinburgh stormed to the Celtic Challenge top three play offs, claiming a bonus point win against the Clovers after a rampant second half performance at Hive Stadium.

Inspired by Emma Orr’s attacking prowess, the home side made a thrilling comeback from 21-5 down to charge into a 35-21 win, scoring 30 unanswered points, in front of 1,012 home fans.

Whilst in the first-half, Edinburgh were reduced to 14 players after Nicole Flynn was shown a yellow card, Edinburgh were able to rally in her return and make up for the two tries conceded during her absence.

Across the game, Molly Poolman, Emma Orr, Mille Whitehouse and Lisa Thomson all crossed the whitewash for Edinburgh. Nicole Marlow and briar McNamara added a penalty each to the board.

Reflecting on the performance, Edinburgh head coach, Claire Cruikshank said: “We are delighted. We knew what we had to do to make sure of a top three spot and to go out there in the second half and play like that was really pleasing.

“There was no panic at half-time when we were behind because we’d been playing against the wind and 14 of their points came when we were a player down.

“We knew if we imposed our game on them in the second half then we would create chances and I thought it was just an all-round good team performance.

“I still feel we are growing and getting better as a group which leaves us in a good spot ahead of the second phase of the competition.”

Brython Thunder 22 – 12 Glasgow Warriors

Glasgow Warriors pushed their opponents all the way in Colwyn Bay, before ultimately being edged out 22-12 by Brython Thunder in round five of the Celtic Challenge.

While comfortably on top for large parts of the match, Chris Laidlaw’s squad were ultimately unable to come back from an early 17-0 deficit, despite standout performances across the field from those in black.

A sensational brace from Roma Fraser was not enough to edge out the home side, as the Warriors gave everything in pursuit of a first victory.

For Fraser and her team-mates, the result was a tough one to take, yet the winger also believes that it was a display after which the Warriors can hold their heads high.

“It’s a difficult loss to take, because we firmly believed we could have won that match,” said Fraser.

“I’m unbelievably proud of the effort of this group, though. We knew it would be a tough test as the Thunder are a physical team, but we stuck to our game plan and almost came up with the result.

“Every single one of the squad gave 100% and I’m really proud of that.”

Fraser herself was in the thick of the action, scoring two sensational solo tries to bring her side within striking distance of their Welsh hosts in Colwyn Bay.

Having scored the first from inside her own half with elusive footwork and lightning-quick acceleration, the second showcased her eye for a gap and determination to find the whitewash.

The winger was typically modest following the match, preferring instead to highlight the efforts of her team-mates in the build-up to the scores.

“Both were great play by the full team to get the ball wide, really,” she said.

“When I got the ball, it was just down to me to find the space and make the most of it really!”

Play-offs explained

The Celtic Challenge now splits for the final rounds of fixtures, with the competition now taking the form of two round-robin pools of three.

The undefeated Wolfhounds sit atop the table, with Edinburgh secured the second seed following a win against Clovers who remain in third.

Gwalia Lightning, Brython Thunder, and Glasgow Warriors occupy the bottom half of the table as they go head-to-head in the play-offs.

Glasgow’s first fixture will be their final home fixture of the tournament, as Laidlaw’s squad welcome the Thunder to Scotstoun on Saturday 17 February for an immediate rematch with their Welsh opponents.

Their second match will take place on Saturday 24 February at Kingspan Stadium, against Gwalia Lightning.

Edinburgh Rugby will host their final home fixtures on Saturday 17 February, hosting top of the league, Wolfhounds. Their final match of the competition will be played on Sunday 3 March at Parc Y Scarlets against the Clovers.

The post Edinburgh record fourth win whilst Glasgow fall short in Wales | Review appeared first on Scottish Rugby.

A battling performance from Glasgow Warriors ended in a 29-10 defeat at the hands of the Clovers at Scotstoun this afternoon, as an impressive second-half display from the home side ultimately proved in vain in round four of the Celtic Challenge.

Tries from Izzy Hannay and Beth Blacklock – on her club debut – were the least the Warriors deserved, throwing everything at their visitors until the final whistle.

Reflecting on the performance, Glasgow Warriors Head Coach, Chris Laidlaw, said: “The easy thing to do would be to look at the results on their own, but we’ve got to value performance and growth week on week, in everything from our preparation to on the pitch. That’s ultimately how we’re going to get closer on the scoreboard, and the girls are putting a massive amount of effort and energy across the full programme.

“We have to find a way of staying in the game for longer periods of time, but there are definitely elements of the game where we can see improvements each week. Our attack has come on throughout the competition, we’re just not quite able to capitalise on pressure for long enough and punish teams.

“The great thing is that there isn’t long to dwell on results in this competition, and we get another opportunity against the Thunder next week. They’ll be a totally different challenge again, the physicality we come up against week on week is a step up and we have to be ready to match that. We’ve got to be excited by the challenges though, and we’ll prepare as well as we can this week.”

With a quick turnaround before travelling to Wales to take on Brython Thunder next weekend, Garioch’s Megan Hyland is confident that results to match the displays on the field are on their way.

“It was definitely a performance that was an improvement upon last week, we’re just disappointed not to come away with the win really,” said the back-rower.

“We were slow to get going, but we rallied well and we spoke at half-time about keeping the momentum going from the try from Izzy [Hannay] just before half-time. We stuck at it and now we just need to keep building.

“The two Welsh teams are very physical squads, so we know we need to keep our physicality levels high. I’ve got full faith in this group, though, from everyone from the coaches to the players.

“Training this week was focused on putting our skills under pressure and making sure they stay at a high level. Next week is going to be another big challenge, but we know what we can do as a group.”

Glasgow Warriors return to action in the final round of action before the play-offs, facing Brython Thunder at Stadium CSM on Saturday 3 February at 2.30pm.

Gwalia Lightning 19 – 20 Edinburgh Rugby

Edinburgh Rugby continued their impressive form in the Celtic Challenge, making it three wins from four after a dramatic 20-19 win away against Gwalia Lightning.

Edinburgh claimed a bonus point win in Cardiff, through tries from Millie Whitehouse, Cieron Bell, Poppy Fletcher, and a last-gasp winner from Panashe Muzambe, sealing a 20-19 win on the road.

Head Coach, Claire Cruikshank, was filled with pride after her side’s Celtic Challenge triumph, saying:

“We are buzzing after that, we are absolutely delighted because that was a very hard fought win. I am proud of the team for the way they kept their composure once we went behind in the second half.

“We were happy with the way that we played in the first half, but we felt that we maybe left a couple of tries out there because we had one held up in the corner and dropped the ball near the line on another occasion.”

The win was Edinburgh’s third in four games, and second away win in Wales on the bounce – having triumphed against Brython Thunder at Parc y Scarlets.  Currently sat in second place in the table, the capital side can seal a top three spot with a win against the Clovers this weekend.

“Wales is a tough place to come for any Scottish side these days and it tends to have been over the years, so to have come down twice in recent weeks and headed back up the road with full points is great and the players should take confidence from that.

“We now have one more game to come against the Irish Clovers on Saturday, and we want to build from here and make sure we are in the top three after the split.”

Edinburgh Rugby return home to Hive Stadium as they battle out to stay within the top three as they take on the Clovers on Saturday 3 February at 12.30pm.

The post Battling performances from Glasgow and Edinburgh | Celtic Challenge Round 4 Review appeared first on Scottish Rugby.

On Saturday, 13 January, Glasgow Warriors Women played their first home game at Scotstoun against the Irish outfit, Wolfhounds.

Despite two debut home tries for Phaedra Snailham and Louise McMillan the Glasgow side lost 12-40.

Scrum-half, Mairi McDonald spoke to glasgowwarriors.org after the game on how it was on the pitch.

“From the whistle, I think the girls worked really hard and pulled together well.  There were highs and lows throughout the game.

“I thought we were really good when we were on the front foot with ball in hand but the Wolfhounds were really strong and played really well.”

Stewartry Sirens, Phaedra Snailham’s try was a team effort as the Warriors worked the ball from one corner to the other along the Wolfhounds defence.  Speaking of this McDonald said, “Seeing Phaedra going over to score that try, was a highlight. Her first Glasgow Warriors try, it’s just so class to see.”

Phaedra Snailham (centre) celebrates her score.

The Warriors now have a weekend off after three weeks of games. Heading into this short break but slightly longer turnaround is a positive for McDonald.

“There is a lot to build on and we know that as a group.  There are definitely a few things to work on and take on going forward.  We are looking forward to the short rest and then playing again in two week’s time.”

905 people turned up to support the squad in their first ever game. Speaking on what the atmosphere was like at the game, McDonald said, “The crowd, the smoke and running out that tunnel was just unreal.  To see that crowd at home is class! Everyone coming together for is just great!”

Glasgow Warriors next fixture will see them take on the Clovers on Saturday 27 January, once again at their home ground of Scotstoun. Tickets can be purchased HERE.

Edinburgh Rugby 22 – 17 Brython Thunder

Edinburgh Rugby women’s claimed an historic first win on the road, winning 22-17 against Brython Thunder at Parc Y Scarlets in Round 3 of the Celtic Challenge.

The side’s first-ever away match finished in perfect fashion, with Edinburgh claiming a bonus-point win having come from 12-0 down after an initial onslaught from the hosts.

With momentum all going the way of the hosts, Edinburgh turned on the screw at scrum time to wrestle back control. Building well, and with sustained pressure, the first score for the capital eventually came through loosehead prop Panashe Muzambe, the Scotland internationalist crashing over from close range.

Edinburgh quickly made it two tries through debutant Caity Mattinson. With her side firmly in the ascendancy decided to quick tap a penalty from five metres out, catching the home defence unawares to score.

After an end to end first half, Edinburgh entered the second with a renewed sense of purpose to dominate the half. Camped in the Thunder for the first 10 minutes of the half, the pressure finally told. Mattinson again quick tapped a penalty, before Edinburgh went through the hands to give number eight Freya Walker a simple finish in the corner.

Shortly after the try the hosts were reduced to 14, with Tromans seeing yellow for a deliberate knock on. Edinburgh made the advantage count immediately, with Cieron Bell running round the defence for a stunning score – her third in as many matches.

With the BP secured, Edinburgh were able to close out the game, with Emma Orr and Nicole Flynn showing sparks of brilliance to keep the pressure on the hosts.

Scottish Rugby Regional Training Centre supported players, Aila Ronald (University of Edinburgh) and Sophie Murphy (Stirling County), who both made their debuts for the club from the bench.

Edinburgh Rugby following their win against Brython Thunder.

Reflecting on the performance, Head Coach, Claire Cruikshank, said: “We are really pleased. I can’t say it was the prettiest of games, but when we had ball we did look dangerous. We didn’t manage momentum too well last week [against the Wolfhounds], but when Thunder went 12-0 up in this game nobody panicked and everyone was calm.

“Getting back to 12-12 was important and although they went up 17-12 at half-time, to turn things around and play pretty well in the second half was pleasing.

“[Two wins from three] is a brilliant start and then we will go again in a couple of weeks down in Wales again. The newer players to this level will have learned a lot in the last few weeks.

“We have talked about how much we have all learnt in that period and the exciting thing is there is so much more to come from this group once we really click.”

Edinburgh Rugby will return to action on Sunday 28 January when they face Gwalia Lightning at Cardiff Arms Park.

The post Edinburgh earn first-ever away victory whilst Glasgow make debut at home | Celtic Challenge Round 3 review appeared first on Scottish Rugby.

The lineup includes a potential Glasgow Warriors debutant in the form of Phaedra Snailham, the Stewartry Siren set to run out for Laidlaw’s squad for the first time in front of the Warrior Nation.

Scotland internationalists Louise McMillan and Mairi McDonald are also named in the line-up, following agreement from their club sides Saracens and Exeter Chiefs.

Speaking following selection, Head Coach Laidlaw told glasgowwarriors.org: “As a group, we’re excited about the opportunity to play our first ever home game at Scotstoun.

“We were happy with the progress last week in certain parts of our game; however, we know that will need to improve even more this week along with other parts of our game to be competitive against a strong and experienced Wolfhounds team who come off the back of two positive results.

“We’ve remained fairly consistent with selection this week, as we welcome back Louise McMillan to the team this week and also a well-earned debut for the Warriors for Phaedra Snailham.

“With this being the last game in this block, we are looking to continue our progress as a squad and take some momentum from this game into the rest of the competition.”

Glasgow Warriors team to face Wolfhounds at Scotstoun, Saturday 13 January, kick-off 2.30pm. Tickets are still available at glasgowwarriors.org, and the game will be broadcast live through the BBC Sport website, BBC iPlayer and RugbyPass TV.

15. Carla McDonald (Hillhead Jordanhill)*
14. Sky Phimister (Stirling County)*
13. Claudia McLaren (Stirling County)
12. Lucy MacRae (Edinburgh University)*
11. Phaedra Snailham (Stewartry Sirens)
10. Ceitidh Ainsworth (Stirling County)*
9. Mairi McDonald (Exeter Chiefs)

1. Ailie Tucker (Watsonian FC)
2. Nikki Simpson (Garioch)*
3. Eilidh Fleming (Stirling County)*
4. Emma Turner CO-CAPTAIN (Corstorphine Cougars)
5. Ellie Williamson (West of Scotland)*
6. Louise McMillan (Saracens)
7. Lucy Winter (Watsonian FC)
8. Alex Love (West of Scotland)

Replacements

16. Karis Craig (Watsonian FC)*
17. Kaylee Fraser (Corstorphine Cougars)
18. Chloe Brown (Stirling County)
19. Sophie Anderson (Watsonian FC)
20. Izzy Hannay (Durham University & Harlequins)**
21. Holland Bogan (Stirling County)*
22. Rhea Clarke CO-CPATAIN (Edinburgh University)*
23. Giselle Chicot (Heriot’s Blues)

Scotland internationalist Caity Mattinson is in line for her Edinburgh Rugby debut in Round 3 of the Celtic Challenge against Brython Thunder at Parc Y Scarlets this Sunday (14 January, kick-off 1.30pm).

Head Coach Claire Cruikshank has made five changes to the starting XV for the side’s first away trip, with Millie Whitehouse, Freya Walker and 18-year-old Nicole Flynn all making their first starts alongside debutant Mattinson.

Hooker Aila Ronald (University of Edinburgh) and Sophie Murphy (Stirling County) could make their debut for Edinburgh from the bench.

Edinburgh are looking to bounce back after defeat against the Wolfhounds at Hive Stadium last weekend, currently sitting in fourth place in the league standings.

On the selection, Cruikshank said: “After two games at home we now have the chance for the team to have its first game on the road, for what will be a big challenge against the Thunder in Llanelli.

“It’s a pretty consistent team, with a number of key partnerships getting the chance to solidify, with the cohesion and understanding growing each game.

“It’s a good opportunity for Nicole Flynn, who impressed off the bench against the Wolfhounds last week. I’m also excited to see Caity Mattinson make her debut for Edinburgh at scrum-half.”

Edinburgh Rugby team to face Brython Thunder at Parc Y Scarlets (Sunday 14 January, kick-off 1.30pm) – Live on RugbyPass TV.

15. Nicole Marlow (Cardiff Met)**
14. Nicole Flynn (University of Edinburgh)*
13. Emma Orr (Heriot’s Blues/Biggar RFC)*
12. Briar McNamara (Watsonian FC)
11. Cieron Bell (University of Edinburgh)*
10. Sarah Denholm (University of Edinburgh)*
9. Caity Mattinson (Gloucester-Hartpury)

1. Panashe Muzambe (Exeter Chiefs)**
2. Millie Whitehouse (University of Edinburgh)
3. Molly Poolman (Watsonian FC)*
4. Fiona McIntosh (Saracens)**
5. Natasha Logan (University of Edinburgh)*
6. Merryn Gunderson (Corstorphine Cougars)
7. Alex Stewart (Corstorphine Cougars)*
8. Freya Walker (Watsonian FC)*

Replacements

16. Aila Ronald (University of Edinburgh)*
17. Poppy Fletcher (University of Edinburgh)*
18. Katie Lindsay (Corstorphine Cougars)*
19. Adelle Ferrie (Corstorphine Cougars)
20. Sophie Murphy (Stirling County)*
21. Leia Brebner-Holden (Gloucester Hartpury & Cheltenham Tigers)**
22. Hannah Ramsay (Corstorphine Cougars)
23. Rachel Philipps (Watsonian FC)*

*Scottish Rugby Regional Training Centre supported players
**Transitional SQ Player

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