Sun 6 Apr 2025
Launceston Ladies fulfilled their league obligations and wrapped up their season just as they started with a convincing win over Newton Abbot at Rackerhayes. With the silverware collected over the last 2 weeks and with nothing riding on this game, motivation would be Launceston’s greatest challenge. But the Cabettes were able to muster up enough to overcome a spirited All Whites defiance 14-39.
With the Sunday sun scorching down upon the girls, Launceston immediately put themselves on the front foot. Keeping the tempo high, Amy Warman took a quick tap penalty and shipped it wide for wing Abbey Matthews to beat her opposite number and dart into the corner. Conversion missed.
An Abbie Smith unconverted brace soon followed and it looked like Launceston were about to rack up a substantial scoreline but Newton Abbot weren’t there to roll over. Coupled with some ill discipline on the Cabettes behalf, the All Whites were able to build some pressure and reaped the rewards with a score of their own. With a well slotted conversion this game began to feel like a contest. Launceston carved out some breathing room on the stroke of halftime when fly half Holly Williams scored and converted to take their lead to 22 points to 7 at the whistle.
HT: 7-22
Newton Abbot came out swinging into the second half and built some early pressure in Launceston’s half but the Cabettes were able to ride out their opposition's purple patch and were soon mounting an attack of their own. Warman spotted a gap 5 metres out that she needed no invitation to take for her score. Converted by Williams.
Launceston continued to attack and soon Jess Harrison found her way to the whitewash for her first ever score for the Cabettes. Launceston again pressed deep into Newton Abbot territory but this time a turnover found a home side speedster who ran it 80 metres for a converted score against the run of play.
The Cabettes though had the final say as Chloe Samways left it as late as possible to score her first try of the season with 3 minutes to go in the final game, bringing the curtain down on the 2024/25 season.
FT: 14-39
An incredible year for Launceston Ladies gaining back to back promotions as well as retaining the Cornwall Cup. Their reward is plying their trade in Championship South West 2, the highest league any Cornish side has competed at, traveling to the likes of Reading and more locally Ivybridge.
The Cabettes wish to thank all of their supporters and sponsors as well as their friends and family who have sacrificed their time, money and patience so these ladies can play and entertain with their skills on the rugby field. They hope and welcome the continuation for the 2025/26 season.
Back of the Match: Abigail Matthews
Forward of the Match: Jenna Arnold
Report by: Dan Pearce
