Priory girls make Preston rugby history

Priory girls made actual history on Tuesday evening as they took part in the first girls' rugby league game to be played in Preston!

The game was kindly hosted by Ashton Community Science College and each school was represented by a mixture of Year 7 and 8 pupils all with varying levels of rugby experience, from complete newcomer to those who play often. 

The game was organised and refereed by Ryan, Priory's rugby coach, who has provided rugby taster sessions to both schools in lessons to Key Stage 3 pupils and at afterschool clubs. 

Priory kicked off the match. The girls took a little time to settle in as a new team, but soon found their feet. Scoring two tries within minutes of each other, with Solange P used her sprinting talent to fire down the right wing, weaving in and out of her opponents. Also Ruth W using her rugby experience to score down the left wing. 

The first half finished 10-12 to Ashton who were putting up a good fight. 

Priory gained a lot of confidence and game tactics from the first half and did not hold back in the second half - Lexi S leaving no prisoners with some fantastic tackles, backed up by Summer P and Megan B. 

Lilly E also demonstrating great teamwork and skill. 

The game finished 16-16 which was quite apt as both teams were equally matched. 

Lexi S was voted woman of the match by Ashton players which was well deserved for the energetic performance she displayed. 

Proud PE teacher, Miss Beesley, gushed, "Well done ladies I am super proud of you, for working as a team, getting stuck in and making history!"

Jonathan Dowler, Education Officer at the Rugby Football League, said, "Thanks to both schools for all the work prior to the event to make it a great game, played in good spirit. As the game went on, I could see the girls grow in confidence and show some real raw talent and skill. It was a pleasure to be apart of and is testament to the work that Ryan has done. I hope that the girls thoroughly enjoyed representing their school in the first inaugural girls school game of Rugby League in Preston."

Team: Lilly E, Megan B, Ruth W, Summer P, Lexi S, Alexa G, Sophie P, Georgia R, Solange P, Harriet H,