ACT Women finish third at National Championship

The ACT has taken third place at the National Women’s Championship after defeating Western Australia 17-7 in their third/fourth play-off at Tallebadgera Active Recreation Centre on the Gold Coast today.

The ACT led 10-0 at the break courtesy of a try to fullback Rachael Fletcher, and conversion and penalty goal to inside centre Ash Hewson.

The West Australians struck back in the second term, running in a converted try of their own before flyhalf Tegan Meredith sealed the 10-point win with a try in the final minute.

In a fast and physical affair, lock Shellie Milward and blindside flanker Nikki Ayers were the pick of the ACT players, while Hewson finished the tournament with a personal haul of 17 points.

ACT Women’s Head Coach Andrew Crozier said today’s win completes a successful tournament for the ACT side.

“Finishing third is a magnificent achievement,” he said. “Given the disrupted preparation we had with injuries and unavailability, to put together the performances we did is a great reflection on the attitude and determination of this squad.

“We had a great mix of youth and maturity and I’d like to think we’ll have the majority of the squad return next year to build on this great result.”

A Wallaroos squad – to contest the World Cup qualifier against Samoa in Apia – will be selected on the completion of the tournament.

MATCH DETAILS
ACT 17 (Rachael Fletcher, Tegan Meredith tries; Ash Hewson 2 conversions, penalty goal) defeated Western Australia 7 at Tallebadgera Active Recreation Centre, Gold Coast