“Late pressure tested structure and patience, but execution held firm when it mattered”
Trailfinders reached their first Premiership Women’s Rugby final after a thrilling 29-26 win over defending champions Gloucester-Hartpury at Kingsholm.
Gloucester-Hartpury started well and scored first through Tatyana Heard. However, Trailfinders responded strongly and took control with four unanswered tries before half-time through Maya Montiel, Meg Jones, Isla Norman-Bell, and Emma Uren to lead 24-7 at the break.
After the restart, Gloucester-Hartpury came back with real intensity, as Rachel Lund and Georgia Brock scored tries to close the gap and put pressure back on the visitors. Still, Trailfinders stayed composed under pressure and managed the game well.
Isla Norman-Bell then scored her second try of the match to extend the lead to 29-21, giving her side crucial breathing space in the final stages.
Although Gloucester-Hartpury added a late try through Hannah Dallavalle, Trailfinders showed strong defensive discipline to hold on and secure a famous victory, booking their place in the final.
In the other semi-final, Saracens edged Exeter Chiefs 40-38 in a tight and high-scoring contest, setting up a final between Saracens and Trailfinders on 28 June.