Army Women (34) vs RAF (0)
6 Apr 05

The Army Women's squad met at ATR Winchester on Monday 04th April 2005 to prepare for their 5th meeting with the RAF and the first game of this year's Inter Service Championship.

After a mornings training with Coaches SSgt Dean Lewis and Sgt Dale Jefferies, the squad had to focus with the training after lunch being taken by Giselle Mather (England Backs Coach) and Garry Street (England Academy). Director of Rugby Sgt Gareth Ivory wanted the squad to feel and understand where their rugby should be heading and the style of play against the RAF. Tuesday was started with a gentle swim taken by SSgt Martina Ashton, followed by team runs and taking the game plan to its extremes.

As always with the RAF game two days of sun followed by the rain (every one is sure the Director ordered it). So Wednesday was upon us and Hhour loomed. The squad met at Aldershot and under the watchful eye of the coaches warmed up, the squad seemed relaxed and eager to get on with the game.

So Kick off was here and what to expect a hard game as always against the RAF. The Army kicked off. As predicted the game was hard but first blood was drawn by the Army, SSgt Martina Ashton kicking a penalty. So the tempo was set, the RAF then had their first chance to strike back however then missed the penalty.

The Army then set in their ways but did not put pressure on the RAF, however built up steam with try's coming from:
  Lt Aimie Williams,
  LCpl Carice Allen (2),
  LCpl Jessica Limbert and Lt Kat Woods and Cpl Susie Nunn sharing, with SSgt Martina Ashton converting 3, making the final score 34 Army - 0 RAF.

Once again setting the tempo for the remainder of the day for the Vets and the Senior XV.

Onwards and Upwards remembering CHAMPIONS NEVER QUIT!!

The Squad now look forward to the Navy on Saturday 7th May, at Richmond College (next to the Stoop) Kick off at 110hrs.

But first must prepare for the New Zealand Army at Aldershot on Thursday 28th April.

I would like to take this opportunity not only to thank all the Army for their support but the supporters who braved the weather, including are new sponsors VT Integrated Services and Stirling may this bond long continue.

Result: Army 34 RAF 0.

The RAF described the match as "REDWASH" - read their match report at www.rafru.com