A cold, wet and windy Westmanstown was never going to allow a flowing festival of rugby but those present will attest that it certainly didn't dampen the excitement or tension.
With their tireless work rate, the Ulster girls caused Leinster numerous problems when on the attack but (perhaps more impressively) managed to repeat the outstanding defensive efforts shown in their last two games.
Although there were some fantastic individual performances it is difficult to highlight one particular player as this was truly a whole-squad effort. The progress made by all of those involved, in such a short space of time, has been immense and they deserve recognition for it.
With this being the end of this season's competition, a number of people deserve a ‘Thank You’:
- Westmanstown RFC for being great hosts
- The refs and officials for facilitating the games
- Connacht, Munster and Leinster for such competitive games
- Darren McGuigan, Neal Johnston, Neill Alcorn, David Heaps and Zoe Templeton for their coaching and organisation
- Andy Creaney for his medical expertise
- Portadown RFC for allowing the girls to use their facilities for training
- The various club coaches for their work with the girls week-in week-out
- All the parents for driving the girls around the country and making the journeys to show their support
- Lastly, the girls themselves for their commitment to training, willingness to learn and three brilliant performances.
- A final word to those girls on the bench: your contribution is vital. You are key to the future success of this squad. Keep committed, keep training, keep improving. Your opportunity will come.