Gorey RFC Senior Ladies delivered a strong and determined performance to secure a 31–10 victory over New Ross RFC in a fiercely contested encounter.

Gorey began the game receiving the ball, but an early handling error handed possession to New Ross. The opposition quickly applied pressure deep in Gorey’s half and looked threatening, but resolute defending saw Gorey hold firm, twice preventing tries by holding the ball up over the line. New Ross eventually broke through to open the scoring, leading 5–0.

Gorey responded well, building phases and maintaining pressure before a moment of brilliance turned the tide. Ailbhe Byrne intercepted a pass just inside the New Ross half and raced clear to score, with Alex Byrne adding the conversion to give Gorey a 7–5 lead at halftime.

With everything still to play for, Gorey came out for the second half with clear intent. Their determination paid off when a high tackle from New Ross resulted in a yellow card and a penalty try, extending Gorey’s lead to 14–5.

Momentum firmly on their side, Gorey continued to press. After sustained attacking phases, the ball was worked wide for Blaithnaid Kenny to cross the line, pushing the score to 19–5. Just five minutes later, Ailbhe Byrne struck again, intercepting another New Ross pass to claim her second try of the match and widen the gap to 24–5.

Gorey’s dominance grew as the game progressed, with improvements at the breakdown proving crucial. Strong rucking and effective jackling earned valuable penalties, allowing them to maintain control. This pressure resulted in another try, with Robyn Cousins touching down under the posts, converted by Alex Byrne to make it 31–5.

To their credit, New Ross never relented and were rewarded with a late try following a series of Gorey handling errors. However, it was Gorey who had the final say, closing out the match 31–10 as the final whistle blew.

What makes this result even more significant is that this marks the return of Gorey RFC’s first Senior Ladies squad in several years. Their performance is a testament to the strength of the club’s Youth Girls Development pathway, with many players making an impressive transition into senior rugby. Blending this emerging talent with a core of experienced players—and even a number of women who, until this year, supported from the sidelines as parents—the squad represents the very best of club spirit. It’s a powerful reminder that it’s never too late to step onto the pitch and represent your club.

This was a game defined by intensity, resilience, and determination from a Gorey side that has laid down a strong marker for the season ahead.

Player of the Match: Ailbhe Byrne

Thank you to all our Players, Coaches (over the years), Club & Squad Sponsors, Match Officials, Portlaoise RFC for hosting, Leinster Branch and all the supporters (some of who got to return the cheers their mothers gave them over the years). We are so PROUD OF YOU ALL!

Next big day out will be the Senior Men who will contest the Provincial Town Plate tomorrow (Sunday 26 April) v Enniscorthy hosted by Arklow RFC.