The Goulbun Stockmen open women’s rugby team started their season in an outstanding fashion, defeating the Valley Dragons 28-10 at the Workers Arena on Saturday night.
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Kicking off the Open Women’s Tackle competition, it has been 15 years since a competition of this nature has run in the district.
Seven teams will be participating in the Canberra Raiders Open Women’s Tackle competition this year.
The Stockmen had a first strong opening half keeping possession.
Despite a handful of tall and dominating Dragon players, adding forceful pressure to the defensive line, the Stockmen were able to push through with low, key tackles throughout the game.
An overall strong defensive and forwards allowed drives through the middle with the women able to play wide and execute much needed tries.
Players Maccie Whittick and Kylie Mills, who returned to the field after a number of years away from the sport, led the attack and kept the opposition on the back foot.
Standout was seen in Talisha Baxter and Leah Watterson. The speed and determination of Grace Marshall, who scored two tries, was also a highlight of the game.
Coach John Thomas described the rugby women’s competition as a semi-professional sport he hopes will grow in the future.
“Before, the girls could only have a chance to represent the Canberra Raiders once a year in Sydney,” he said.
“Now the Raiders have their first open women’s team. The opportunities are similar to the men. There is a definite pathway for these young girls coming through, which is great.”