Wilcox Try Seals Victory for Navy

On a cold Wednesday evening, the Royal Navy Women’s Development Team produced a gritty and determined performance to secure a 17 – 14 victory over a strong Havant side.

The Navy started brightly, striking early when Jasmine Abel crossed the line for the opening try, which was calmly converted by Moira Douglas. Despite the confident start, Havant responded with long spells of sustained pressure. Their persistence eventually paid off around the 30-minute mark as they registered their first try, bringing the game back within reach.

The Navy reacted superbly. Regaining composure and momentum, they pushed back into Havant territory, culminating in a well-finished try from Rowann Sinclair, restoring their lead heading into the break.

The second half saw the Navy grow in confidence. Their attack stretched the field, moving the ball efficiently from edge to edge, while their defence held firm against Havant’s powerful ball carriers. After an extended period of defensive effort on their own line, the Navy turned defence into opportunity. Their hard work was rewarded when Beth Wilcox crashed over for a crucial try, pushing the score to 17 points.

Havant refused to fade and mounted a late surge, scoring a try in the final ten minutes to close the gap to 17–14. The closing stages were tense as Havant camped on the Navy try line, threatening a comeback. But the Navy showed exceptional resilience, digging deep to repel the attack and eventually forcing a mistake to seal the victory.

A hard-earned win and a standout display of determination from the Royal Navy Women’s Development Team. 

Dev XV: A Baker, E Thorpe, K Bark; R Staples, L Wilkie; R Sinclair, E Brightwell (C), J Shaw; J Banks, 

M Douglass, E Clack, J Abel, B Wilcox, F Mullett (VC), L Astley.

Replacements: A Puttock, L Fox, R Marley, H Cole, K Sutherland, J Parnaby, E Hart.

Words by Billi Staite

Images by Keith Woodland