Selby Girls travelled to the annual Sandal Festival in great spirits, bringing a strong squad of 18, welcoming back Emily and giving a big debut to Lilly. A brilliant turnout of parents and grandparents lined the pitches, praying for dry weather and ready to cheer the girls on. Bags full of sweets, sandwiches and hot dogs set the tone for a fun-filled day of rugby!

The girls kicked off against Cleckheaton and started strongly, edging a tight match two tries to one. A couple of key decisions went Selby’s way, but as they say — you make your own luck! The win gave the team early confidence. Next up was Aire & Wharf, where Selby really hit their stride. With too much power up front and electric pace out wide, Emily, India, Corey and Grace were unstoppable in attack, while Isla and Anya kept the ball moving at speed. Up front, Mollie and Lucy Moyes battered their way through the middle to seal another great win.

Game three brought the hosts, Sandal — and after their recent National Cup defeat, Selby had a score to settle. They did it in style! Lilly, Leila and Izzy were outstanding at the ruck, turning over ball after ball, and slick play between forwards and backs saw Selby run out 3–1 winners. Three from three and flying high!

Next came Wolds Warriors, and Selby were simply rampant. Grace Rawson showed great pace to grab her first try of the season, and Emmi Buckle powered over for another cracking score. The girls were loving it!

The local derby followed against old friends Cas/Hull — always a fiery one! With one try apiece and tempers flaring, a Hull forward saw red for a punch, but Selby stayed calm and pulled together to score a superb last-minute winner. Unfortunately, fly-half Anya Bayfield suffered a nasty injury and was taken to hospital — but we’re happy to report she’s recovering well (and celebrating with Haribos!).

That made it five wins from five, and Selby saved their best rugby for last against Rotherham. Fast, flowing, confident — the girls ran in seven tries and showed real class to finish the day unbeaten and lift the Sandal Festival Trophy 2025!

Every single one of the 18 girls played their part — strong defence, teamwork, and amazing spirit throughout the day. The confidence and togetherness in this group are growing every week, and they’ll take that into next week’s Yorkshire Cup clash with Thorne.

Huge thanks to everyone who supported — to Richard for refereeing, Sean for first aid, Sarah for keeping the team organised, and our fantastic sponsors for backing Selby Girls Rugby. What a day, what a team — well done girls! ??❤️