March Ladies take on composite side including players from St Ives, Deeping, Boston, and Ely

March Bears Ladies fielded a full 15-a-side team and substitutes for the first time — a huge milestone for the club.

Their opponents, the formidable St Ives Barbarians, were a composite team made up of players from St Ives, Deeping, Boston, and Ely Ladies.

The Bears took to the pitch to a guard of honour from the club’s Minis and Juniors — both girls and boys — a touching moment that set the tone for a special day, cheered on by a fantastic crowd of supporters.

The match began with March applying early pressure, though initially with little return.

But their persistence paid off when Rhianna Regan made a superb interception and ran it in under the posts.

Shayla Nicholson slotted the conversion to give March a 7-0 lead.

Unfortunately, March then lost vice-captain Karen Nichols to injury, and during the break in play, St Ives regrouped and fought back with a couple of quick tries.

They continued to press and added another just before the half-time whistle, giving them a 17-7 lead at the break.

Shortly after the restart, and following a yellow card to March, St Ives extended their lead to 22-7.

Things looked tough, especially when the Bears also lost their captain to injury.

With encouragement from coaches Dick Ward and Steven Moorehouse, March rallied.

Confidence grew and their game began to click. Camilla Tricker made a storming run, only stopped by a strong St Ives tackle.

Following an injury to a Barbarians player, both teams agreed to reduce to 14-a-side, with a March player volunteering to come off.

Regan struck again with another powerful run to the line, and the extras were added, bringing the score to 14–22. Then it was Millie’s turn to crash over, again converted by Flash.

Suddenly, it was a one-point game at 21–22 and with just minutes left, the tension was palpable.

Regan burst down the wing once more before offloading for March to secure a stunning 26–22 with a last gasp try.

Player of the Match: Rhianna Regan.

Back of the Day: Camilla Tricker.

Forward of the Day: Tracy Ranger.

The whole squad were outstanding, with special mention to two players making their rugby debuts - an amazing achievement in such a competitive match.

This wasn’t just a win for March Bears, but a brilliant day for women’s rugby. A true team performance; played with spirit, determination and joy.

Head coach Dick Ward, coach Steven Moorehouse, and team manager Casey-Rae would like to thank every player for their commitment — the future looks incredibly bright.

Thanks also go to the club volunteers for running the bar and post-match food, and to the St Ives Barbarians side for turning up in such strong numbers and contributing to a fantastic game, played in the right way and the right spirit.