The second round of the Celtic Challenge delivered high-intensity action, with historic wins and standout performances from Gwalia Lightning and Clovers.
Gwalia Edge Out Rivals Brython in Llanelli Battle
Final Score: Brython 0-10 Gwalia
Gwalia Lightning secured a landmark 10-0 victory against Welsh rivals Brython Thunder in a fiercely contested derby at Parc Y Scarlets (the home ground of Brython Thunder).
Prop Maisie Davies and fly-half Carys Hughes were instrumental, contributing all of Gwalia’s points. Davies powered over for a decisive second-half try, while Hughes maintained her flawless kicking record with a penalty and conversion.
The game was a physical and tense encounter, marked by staunch Gwalia defense that held firm against Brython’s late first-half onslaught. More than 600 fans turned up to witness Gwalia claim their first-ever away win over Brython, avenging last season’s 30-5 defeat in Llanelli.
With this win, Gwalia climbs to the top of the points table. Both Welsh teams now turn their focus to away games on January 4th, with Brython heading to Scotland to face Edinburgh, while Gwalia travels to Ireland to challenge the Clovers.
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Clovers Dominate Wolfhounds in Five-Try Display
Final Score: Clovers 31-10 Wolfhounds
Clovers bounced back emphatically from their first-round loss to claim a 31-10 triumph over the Wolfhounds at the UCD Bowl. Bolstered by the inclusion of three Ireland internationals, their forward pack dominated the defending champions, driving them to a five-try victory.
Despite an early 10-point deficit from Wolfhounds tries by Alma Atagamen and Vicky Elmes Kinlan, Clovers found their rhythm. Ivana Kiripati and Beth Buttimer struck late in the first half to edge the Clovers ahead 12-10 at the break.
A relentless second-half performance saw Clovers add three more tries, including a bonus point effort from Jane Neill and a well-taken intercept by Hannah Clarke. Nicole Fowley’s accurate kicking added crucial conversions to seal the win.
This commanding result sets up an exciting clash next Saturday, as Clovers host Gwalia Lightning at Kingspan Stadium. Meanwhile, the Wolfhounds aim to rebound against Glasgow Warriors.