A combined side of St Ives, Ely and Cantabs Ladies produced an outstanding all-round performance at The Chicken Shack to secure a 43–5 victory over a combined opposition of March Bears, Biggleswade, Hitchin and Cambridge Ladies in the final Inner Warrior Series match of the season.
Played in blazing sunshine on firm, fast ground, the home side adapted superbly to the conditions, playing with width, structure and confidence. The ball was moved wide effectively to suit the hard surface, while strong support running and communication helped create momentum throughout all four quarters. A large number of supporters lined the pitch and created an excellent atmosphere for the final fixture of the campaign.
The occasion also marked captain Em Jenks’ final game, and she led from the front in a composed and organised team display that gave the side a fitting send-off on home turf. Vic Shivers took on vice-captain duties and played an influential role throughout the match with aggressive ball carrying and two conversions.
The first score came after just over two minutes when full back Ellie Tod crossed for the opening try, before fly half Gem Bacon added the conversion. The second try came from excellent team play, with Em Jenks helping create space for flanker Cheila Gomes, who attacked down the wing to finish well.
Tight scrums gave the side a strong platform throughout the opening exchanges, allowing the backs to attack with confidence. Winger Jen Parsons added another first-quarter try before Clare Brading converted to make it 19–0.
One of the standout moments of the match arrived early in the second quarter when Parsons collected possession deep inside her own half and sprinted 80 metres for a superb solo try, showing pace and determination to finish from distance. The opposition responded with their only score of the afternoon, but the home side remained firmly in control.
In the third quarter, Ellie Tod added her second try of the match, once again joining the line effectively from full back, with Shivers adding the conversion.
The final quarter produced a memorable personal milestone for prop Kate Starling, who showed real confidence to power over for her first try for the club before quickly backing it up with a second score later in the match, a deserved reward for a strong forward display. Shivers converted the first of those tries.
It was also a special day for Louise Lennox, who made her first ever appearance in a rugby match, contributing to a strong squad performance in a game where every player played their part.
Match awards:
Forward of the Match: Kat P (Ely)
Back of the Match: Crystal (Cantabs)
Player of the Match: Ellie Tod
Ellie Tod’s award reflected an excellent all-round display from full back, scoring twice and contributing strongly in both attack and defence.
Captain Em Jenks reflected after the match: “Having the honour to captain this group of incredibly inspirational women has been a highlight of my rugby journey that I will never forget. I can’t wait to see where the team goes next!”
Overall, it was a cohesive and disciplined team performance, combining strong structure, physicality and attacking intent, with a fitting winning finish for captain Em Jenks in her final appearance. The match also marked the end of the side’s Inner Warrior Series campaign before stepping up to NC3 rugby next season.