Royal Navy Ladies v Plymouth Albion Ladies

By Webmaster
April 25 2006

 

Plymouth Albion ladies will be looking to emulate their male counterparts on Wed 26 April at 7pm when they take on the Royal Navy Ladies at the Keyham rugby ground in a traditional friendly encounter.

Albion’s men defeated the Navy 37-7 a week ago so Albion Ladies are hoping they can complete a notable double over the senior service by winning tonight.

Both sides are using the match to prepare for important dates to come this season – the Royal Navy Ladies are about to contest their Inter Services Championship while Albion take on Worcester Ladies next Sunday in a National Cup semi final.

 As well as being a prestige friendly the match also celebrates the ongoing links between Albion Ladies and the Royal Navy, and in the naval side tonight will be at least two of Albion’s current first team squad – Club Captain Paula Bennett-Smith and Pat Garrett, both of whom are also women's Combined Services players.

 “This is a fixture we are always honoured to accept – both sides always take it seriously and this year will be no exception,” says Albion Head Coach Tony Boyle.

 Albion have generally held the upper hand as far as results have been concerned over the years, but Boyle says that he expects a tough encounter tonight.

 “As more and more women take up rugby around the country, services’ rugby is getting stronger and stronger, and with several of the Navy side normally involved with Albion there will doubtless be some interesting moments during the match,” explained Boyle.

 “Obviously the Navy selectors will be looking to see who shines for them ahead of their championships while I am looking to see who puts in a strong claim for a starting shirt against Worcester, so there is plenty of motivation for all the players taking part,” said Boyle.

 “Hopefully there will be a decent crowd to watch the game tonight and I am confident that the side I select will put on a good show and come away with a win,” concluded Boyle.

 

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