This weekend, six talented players from Barnsley RUFC’s women’s team are set to make history by competing in a cup final for Yorkshire at the iconic Twickenham Stadium. The highly anticipated match against Surrey will take place on Saturday at 5 PM, marking a significant milestone for the athletes and their club.
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Path to Twickenham
The Shaw Lane club, which competes in the second tier of women’s rugby in England, has seen a remarkable journey to the final, thanks to the exceptional performances of its players. The squad members set to represent Yorkshire include:
- Beth Arnold (Prop, 25)
- Danie Green (Full-back, 27)
- Alix Taylor-Roberts (Fly-half, 34)
- Lauren Bolger (Centre, 30)
- Jasmin Brankin (Flanker, 22)
- Becky Patrick (Number Eight, 30)
Each of these players has shown tremendous dedication and skill, contributing significantly to their team’s success throughout the season.
Player Perspectives
Danie Green: Fulfilling a Lifelong Dream
For Danie Green from Cudworth, playing at Twickenham is the culmination of a lifelong ambition. “It has always been a dream of mine to play at Twickenham since starting rugby,” Green shared. “I can’t believe it’s happening. I am super excited to play.”
Alix Taylor-Roberts: A Treasured Experience
Alix Taylor-Roberts from Royston, who has previously played at Twickenham with her university team, expressed her excitement about the upcoming match. “I have been lucky enough to play at Twickenham twice before, which was amazing. But to be able to play there for Yorkshire and with some of my club-mates will be something to truly treasure.”
Becky Patrick: A Dream Come True
Becky Patrick from Grimethorpe is equally thrilled about the opportunity. “To play at Twickenham is my ultimate dream. I cannot wait. I haven’t even thought about winning there, just playing, but that would just put the icing on the cake.”
Club and Coach Support
Barnsley RUFC’s head coach, Will Smith, has been a pivotal figure in the team’s journey. He expressed immense pride in his players’ achievements.
“I am proud of the players representing Yorkshire who have played consistently well and earned their county recognition. It’s been great to see them performing well for the county too.”
Smith also highlighted the strength of the club’s roster and their competitive spirit in the challenging second tier of women’s rugby.
“They are part of a good group of players we have at the club. It’s a big challenge playing in the second tier of the women’s game nationally, but the team are competitive in most games. We wish our players all the best for what promises to be a great occasion at Twickenham.”
Road to the Final
Yorkshire’s journey to the final has been nothing short of spectacular, with impressive victories over formidable opponents:
- Warwickshire: 43-0
- Gloucestershire: 70-19
- Lancashire: 30-19
These commanding performances underscore the team’s capability and determination, setting the stage for an exciting showdown against Surrey at the national rugby stadium.
The Impact of the Players
The contributions of Arnold, Green, Taylor-Roberts, Bolger, Brankin, and Patrick have been instrumental in Yorkshire’s successful campaign. Notably, Lauren Bolger serves as the captain of Yorkshire, bringing leadership and experience to the team.
Meanwhile, Jasmin Brankin’s rapid development in the sport, having taken it up only three years ago, highlights her exceptional talent and dedication.
Anticipation and Aspirations
As the Barnsley players prepare for this monumental match, the excitement and anticipation are palpable. The opportunity to play at Twickenham is a dream come true for many, and their collective journey symbolizes the dedication and hard work invested in their rugby careers.
With the support of their coach, teammates, and the wider Barnsley RUFC community, these six players are poised to make their mark on one of the biggest stages in rugby. Their story is not just about a game; it’s about passion, perseverance, and the pursuit of excellence.
