From breathtaking tries to hard-fought battles, this weekend’s home derbies across Scotland and Wales offered the drama, energy and passion they are known for.
Edinburgh Rugby 31-25 Glasgow Warriors
Edinburgh Rugby claimed their first Celtic Challenge victory of the season with a hard-fought 31–25 win over Glasgow Warriors in an entertaining derby at Hive Stadium.
Glasgow made the early running, enjoying strong territory and possession, but Edinburgh’s defence stood firm through the opening quarter. The pressure eventually told when Beth Blacklock opened the scoring for the Warriors, before Hannah Smyth finished well in the corner to extend the visitors’ lead.
Edinburgh responded through their forward pack, with Aila Ronald grounding the ball from close range and Hannah Ramsay converting to bring the hosts back into contention. Glasgow struck again through Sky Phimister, but a missed conversion kept the game finely balanced. Just before half-time, Edinburgh capitalised on sustained pressure as Molly Poolman forced her way over, Ramsay’s conversion narrowing the deficit to 15–14 at the break.
The hosts carried that momentum into the second half. Captain Hannah Walker crossed early on to give Edinburgh the lead for the first time, with Ramsay again accurate from the tee. Edinburgh then stretched the game, as Cieron Bell and Nicole Marlow both finished well out wide to build a 31–15 advantage.
Glasgow showed resilience in the closing stages, with co-captain Holland Bogan crossing twice to set up a tense finish. However, Edinburgh’s defence held strong in the final minutes to secure a 31–25 victory in a closely contested Celtic Challenge encounter.
Player of the Match: Holland Bogan (Glasgow Warriors)
For the full Edinburgh Rugby match report: Click here
For the full Glasgow Warriors match report: Click here
Gwalia Lightning 36-10 Brython Thunder
Gwalia Lightning claimed a dominant victory over Brython Thunder in the first Welsh derby of the expanded Celtic Challenge at Cardiff Arms Park, taking the spoils 36–10.
The Lightning made a fast start, with centre Kelsie Webster crossing twice in quick succession to give the visitors an early lead. Brython responded through Gabby Healen’s long-range try, but Gwalia soon regained control as Alaw Pyrs, Nia Fajeyisan, and Molly Reardon added scores, with fly-half Hughes converting several times to secure a 24–7 half-time advantage.
The second half remained competitive, with both sides showing strong defensive effort. Gwalia capped the win with a final try from captain Bryonie King, ensuring a comprehensive bonus-point victory.
The result marks Gwalia Lightning’s first win of the season and underscores their attacking flair, disciplined defence, and leadership on the field, continuing their strong record against Welsh rivals in the Celtic Challenge.
Player of the Match: Alaw Pyrs (Gwalia Lightning)
For the full match report: Click here
