IVYBRIDGE’S under-16 girls’ team are regional finalists after overcoming a strong opposition and hurricane-like weather to knock out North Bristol.

Their 27-24 away win at the Bristol side’s ground on Sunday took place in the grip of Storm Isha, making conditions challenging. 

Despite each team scoring and counter scoring right up until the final whistle, Ivybridge held firm to secure their place in the regional final of RFU National Cup.   

“Two teams going hammer and tongs against each other in weather of biblical proportions produced a semi-final worthy of modern girls’ rugby, “said Mark Malone, Ivybridge under-16 girls lead coach.   

“Hats off to both teams, who produced a display of highly skilful rugby.”  

He added: “Two contrasting styles of rugby were on show from two traditional rugby clubs with Ivybridge taking the honours on the day.  

“Girls’ rugby was the real winner on this occasion.” 

Ivybridge meet Oxfordshire team, Gosford All Blacks in the final on Sunday, March 3. The venue has yet to be decided.  

The South Hams team also continue their campaign in the RFU Devon Cup with a crunch decider against Devonport Services at the Rectory on Sunday, February 4. 

The girls’ section at Ivybridge hope the under-16s’ recent success, combined with interest off the back of the Six Nations Tournament, will encourage more girls to give rugby a go.  

A free ‘turn-up-and-train’ taster session for girls aged between 11 and 18 is on offer on Tuesday, February 13 from 7pm to 8:30pm on the main pitch at Ivybridge Rugby Club.  

Anyone interested in finding out more about girls’ rugby at Ivybridge can contact nikkimoss245@gmail.com.