Navan Women’s 1st XV closed out 2024 in style, maintaining their perfect record with a hard-fought 33-22 victory over second-placed Athy. The result strengthens their grip at the top of Leinster Women’s League Division 2, extending their unbeaten run to seven matches and opening up an eight-point lead heading into the festive break.
Navan showcased attacking flair and resilience, outscoring Athy five tries to four. Prop Emily Jo White and scrum-half Alex Connor both crossed the whitewash twice, while number eight Rosie Searle added another try to underline the team’s clinical finishing.
Place-kickers Anna Bolger and Lillian Brady contributed with two conversions each, helping Navan keep the scoreboard ticking.
Athy pushed Navan throughout the match, crossing for four tries of their own, but the Meath side’s overall composure and ability to capitalize on scoring opportunities proved decisive.
Their dominance and consistency shone through in a high-stakes contest. Team Captain Aoife Ryan was pivotal in Navan’s success with a commanding performance, showcasing her experience and leadership in a crucial match, earning the “Player of the Match” accolade for her stellar display.
Navan’s victory solidified their position as the leading team in Division 2, with an eight-point lead over Athy who are in second place.
Navan will kick off 2025 with a home match against Dublin University at Balreask Old on Sunday, 12th January, with a 1pm kick-off.
Player of the Match “Sponsored by The Central”: Aoife Ryan
Navan Women's 1st XV Squad "Sponsored by P. Bermingham's Bar":
Emily Jo White, Ava Kiechler, Lauren Fitzpatrick, Áine Nangle, Emma Looby, Louise Crinion, Aoife Ryan, Rosie Searle, Alex Connor, Anna Bolger, Maria Smith, Michelle Claffey, Molly Fitzgerald, Áine Castles, Aisling Kelly.
Replacements:
Kelly Brady, Kayleigh Crinion, Shona White, Ava Galvin, Anita Lennon, Lillian Brady, Molly Egan.
Navan showcased attacking flair and resilience, outscoring Athy five tries to four. Prop Emily Jo White and scrum-half Alex Connor both crossed the whitewash twice, while number eight Rosie Searle added another try to underline the team’s clinical finishing.
Place-kickers Anna Bolger and Lillian Brady contributed with two conversions each, helping Navan keep the scoreboard ticking.
Athy pushed Navan throughout the match, crossing for four tries of their own, but the Meath side’s overall composure and ability to capitalize on scoring opportunities proved decisive.
Their dominance and consistency shone through in a high-stakes contest. Team Captain Aoife Ryan was pivotal in Navan’s success with a commanding performance, showcasing her experience and leadership in a crucial match, earning the “Player of the Match” accolade for her stellar display.
Navan’s victory solidified their position as the leading team in Division 2, with an eight-point lead over Athy who are in second place.
Navan will kick off 2025 with a home match against Dublin University at Balreask Old on Sunday, 12th January, with a 1pm kick-off.
Player of the Match “Sponsored by The Central”: Aoife Ryan
Navan Women's 1st XV Squad "Sponsored by P. Bermingham's Bar":
Emily Jo White, Ava Kiechler, Lauren Fitzpatrick, Áine Nangle, Emma Looby, Louise Crinion, Aoife Ryan, Rosie Searle, Alex Connor, Anna Bolger, Maria Smith, Michelle Claffey, Molly Fitzgerald, Áine Castles, Aisling Kelly.
Replacements:
Kelly Brady, Kayleigh Crinion, Shona White, Ava Galvin, Anita Lennon, Lillian Brady, Molly Egan.