Royal Navy Women Taken Down in Toulon

The Royal Navy Women showed determination in a tough outing at Stade Mayol, where a dominant Marine Nationale side claimed a clear win. Despite limited opportunities, the Navy took their chances and fought hard throughout, led by captain Ellie Brightwell’s relentless effort. The result was challenging, but the resilience shown provides valuable momentum as they look ahead to the Inter Services campaign.

The Royal Navy Women were comprehensively beaten 73 – 15 by a powerful Marine Nationale Féminines side at the magnificent Stade Mayol, the iconic home of one of France’s greatest rugby clubs, Rugby Club Toulonnais. Played in perfect sunny conditions, thousands of spectators turned out to witness the latest chapter in this cross-Channel rivalry.

Amid the vibrant atmosphere, the hosts quickly imposed themselves, their forward pack laying the foundation with dominance at the scrum and in the carry. Marine Nationale controlled both territory and possession throughout the opening period, racing into a 39–8 halftime lead and leaving the Royal Navy with limited opportunities to build momentum.

When chances did come, the visitors showed determination to make them count. Fly-half Moira Douglass opened their account with a composed penalty, before flanker Elona Bythell powered over from a well-executed driven lineout — one of the Royal Navy’s few sustained attacks in the French half.

The second half followed a similar pattern, with Marine Nationale remaining clinical and efficient, punishing errors and turning pressure into points. Despite the scoreboard, the Royal Navy continued to fight, led inspirationally by captain Ellie Brightwell. The skipper delivered a tireless defensive performance, tackling relentlessly and setting the tone for her side’s effort.

Brightwell capped her display with a deserved try in the second half, crashing over from a strong scrum after sustained pressure, with Douglass adding the conversion to complete the Royal Navy’s scoring.

While the final score reflected the French side’s dominance, the Royal Navy Women showed resilience and character throughout, gaining valuable experience for the upcoming Inter Services competition from a demanding encounter in one of French rugby’s most storied venues, played out in front of a passionate and sun-soaked crowd.

FT Marine Nationale 73 – 15 RN Women

Senior Women: R Marley*, A Puttock*, L Swain; J Shaw, O Kafoa; B Wilcox* E Bythell, E Brightwell (C), J Parnaby (VC), M Douglass, F Mullett, R Dixon, J Abel, E Hart, J Banks.

Replacements: F Moore, A Baker, L Honeybell, R Addis, R Tuvou, D Leonard*, G Adams*, L Donald*.

*Denotes New Cap.

Words by Paul Clark

Images by Champagne Rugby