Wolfhounds have cemented their place in history winning back-to-back Celtic Challenge titles. They delivered a commanding performance throughout the competition and capped off their journey with a stunning final victory scoring 102 points. Their relentless attack, defensive resilience, and unmatched team cohesion saw them dominate the tournament from start to finish, proving they are the team to beat in women’s rugby.
A Strong Start Sets the Tone
From the opening whistle of the competition, the Wolfhounds established themselves as the front-runners. Their first match set the tone for what was to come, with a resounding 35-10 victory over their Irish rivals, Clovers. Their attacking flair was on full display, with explosive backline movements orchestrated by their fly-half and 9, whose pinpoint accuracy and game management were key to the team’s success.
As the competition progressed, the Wolfhounds continued to dismantle opponents with their structured yet dynamic style of play. A 28-12 triumph over Gwalia Lightning showcased their adaptability, with the forward pack taking centre stage, dominating scrums and mauls to control possession. The team’s depth was evident, with impact players off the bench making crucial contributions in every match.
The Final Game: Wolfhounds at Their Best
Needing a ninth victory of the campaign to stay clear of the chasing Clovers, Neill Alcorn’s side sealed a top of the table finish with an ultra-clinical 16-try performance against a young, injury-hit Edinburgh outfit.
Flying full-back Amy Larn scored the pick of the first-half tries, running back a kick from almost 80 metres out as she left her opposite number Hannah Ramsay for dead. The hosts led 50-0 at the break.
Talented teenage lock Alma Atagamen had touched down inside the opening two minutes, and Molly Scuffil-McCabe, Vicky Elmes Kinlan, Leah Tarpey, Maebh Clenaghan, and Linda Djougang also crossed, along with a penalty try from a maul.
Centre Tarpey finished with a hat-trick of tries – a tally matched by Katie Corrigan during just 25 second-half minutes – and Aoife Dalton, captain Claire Boles, and replacement Lauren Farrell McCabe added to the try haul as Edinburgh leaked 102 unanswered points.
Farrell McCabe landed four conversions to add to Dannah O’Brien’s six successful kicks, while the Wolfhounds looked most pleased to maintain their defensive shutout.
A Victory for Women’s Rugby
The Wolfhounds’ Celtic Challenge win is not only a milestone for the team but also a significant moment for women’s rugby. Their success in the Celtic Challenge highlights the growing competitiveness and talent within the sport as Clovers and Gwalia Lightning were keeping the chase on all season. All teams have inspired the next generation of female athletes to pursue rugby at the highest level. Wolfhounds players secured an incredible 17 spots in this years 2025 Guinness Women’s Six Nations Ireland Squad showcasing the talent they have across the pitch.
As they celebrate their historic triumph, the Wolfhounds have set a new benchmark in the Celtic Challenge, leaving fans eager to see how they will build on this success in the seasons to come. One thing is certain, this team has proven they are a force to be reckoned with, and their journey is only just beginning.
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