Navan Senior Women's 1st team kicked off their 2024/25 campaign with a solid 19-10 win against fellow promoted side, Athy, at home in Balreask Old. After a successful previous season where Navan secured a league and cup double, they were determined to make a strong start in Division 2.

Navan started the match with intensity, bolstered by some fresh faces who had recently come up from the youth ranks. Their high tempo play helped the home team dominate the early stages, resulting in two tries and a conversion to establish a commanding 12-0 lead. However, Athy responded well, utilising their wide play to exploit gaps in Navan's defense. The visitors clawed back with two unconverted tries, narrowing the gap to 12-10 at halftime.

The second half was marked by tough, attritional rugby, exacerbated by rain showers that made handling tricky. Navan’s defensive discipline was key, with inside-centre Michelle Stafford making impressive carries, earning her the player-of-the-match title. Debutante fly-half Lillian Brady also shone, distributing the ball effectively. The decisive moment came when Navan scored the only try of the second half, converting it to seal a 19-10 victory.

This valuable win gives Navan a promising start to their league season, with the team looking to build on the momentum.

Navan next travel to College Park in Trinity College Dublin next Sunday (6th October) to face Dublin University with a 1pm kick-off.

Navan Women's 1st XV Squad "Sponsored by P. Bermingham's Bar":

Emily Jo White, Kayleigh Crinion, Racheal Browne, Áine Nangle, Emma Looby, Ava Galvin, Aoife Ryan (Capt), Rosie Searle, Anita Lennon, Lillian Brady, Alanna Caffrey, Michelle Stafford, Molly Fitzgerald, Isabelle Brereton, Maria Smith,Niamh McManus, Kelly Brady, Aisling Kelly, Rhiannon Hoey, Anna Bolger, Louise Crinion, Áine Castles.