Wolfhounds and Clovers kept their title dreams alive with crucial victories. In a weekend of high drama, Wolfhounds battled past Gwalia Lightning in a high scoring clash, while Clovers made a statement against Edinburgh Rugby proving why they are in the title race. Brython Thunder battled to a hard-fought away victory in a tightly contested match, with pride on the line, the two sides will face off again next week in what promises to be another intense showdown.
Wolfhounds Dominate as Gwalia Lightning’s Title Hopes Fade
Final Score: Gwalia Lightning 41-17 Wolfhounds
Gwalia Lightning suffered a tough 41-17 defeat against reigning champions, Wolfhounds, in Round 9 of the Celtic Challenge at Ystrad Mynach. Gwalia unbeaten at home this season found themselves pointless at half-time and down 39-0 after an impressive first half display by the Irish side.
The Wolfhounds have been the pacesetters in the Celtic Challenge and won last year’s competition and had only lost only game so far this season before this trip to Wales. The Lightning came into this game with all to play for with only four points between the top three sides in the table. The Welsh side were the only side that could end the Irish dominance of Wolfhounds and Clovers in the competition.
Despite second-half tries from Rhodd Parry, Bryonie King, and Caitlin Lewis, Gwalia couldn’t close the gap. Wolfhounds, who have been the competition’s frontrunners, showcased their strength with multiple tries, including a hat-trick from Claire Boles.
📖 Read the full match report
▶️ Watch the highlights
Clovers Not Taking Their Foot Off The Gas as They Charge Through Edinburgh
Final Score: Edinburgh Rugby 18-60 Clovers
Despite a spirited second-half fightback, Edinburgh Rugby fell to an experienced Clovers side at Hive Stadium.
Clovers set the tone early, racing to a commanding lead with multiple first-half tries, capitalizing on an Edinburgh yellow card and clinical finishing. By halftime, the visitors held a dominant advantage, leaving Edinburgh with a mountain to climb.
The hosts showed resilience after the break, adding tries through Hannah Walker and a late effort from Giselle in the final minute. However, Clovers remained in control, continuing to rack up points and ultimately securing a convincing 60-18 victory.
A tough result for Edinburgh, but they battled to the end in their final home match of the season.
📖 Read the full match report
▶️ Watch the highlights
Brython Thunder Edge Glasgow Warriors in Tight Battle on Scottish Soil!
Final Score: Glasgow Warriors 17 – 33 Brython Thunder
Brython Thunder secured a victory against Glasgow Warriors in Round 9 of the Celtic Challenge at Scotstoun Stadium. After a previous defeat to Clovers, the Welsh side responded strongly, with second-row Gwen Crabb scoring a hat-trick of tries.
Thunder started the match aggressively, creating early opportunities before Crabb opened the scoring. Glasgow’s Briar McNamara and Abi Evans responded with tries, but Thunder maintained control, leading 21-7 at halftime. Despite a breathtaking late Glasgow try from Roma Fraser, Crabb’s third try secured the win.
This was the first of two consecutive matches between the teams as the season nears its conclusion.