Historic day for Strabane RFC as Lionesses host first home fixture

SATURDAY was another proud day for Strabane RFC as its Lionesses side took to the pitch for their first-ever home fixture - and the first women's home rugby game in the history of the club.

Held on the grounds of Strabane Academy on Sunday, the ladies marked the milestone by hosting the Women’s Conference Blitz with teams from Letterkenny, Cooke, Ballymena and Virginia, in front of a large crowd.

A club spokesperson said: "The girls took on a strong Letterkenny side, battling hard in contact and gaining a bit of momentum but in the second half a strong performance from Letterkenny led to a defeat in the first game.

"They soon took on the Ballymena/Virginia/Cooke team.

"Both teams displayed brilliant skills and physicality leading to a win for the Strabane girls.

"We want to take the time to thank all of the supporters who came to cheer on the teams, the amazing girls who set up a brillaint refreshment stand keeping spectators warm and fed, the referee and of course Ulster (Rugby) for creating a brilliant pathway for new senior women players.

"All in all it was an amazing day and we look forward to what 2026 brings.

"Wishing all those who were injured a speedy recovery and hope to see you on the pitch again soon."

Elsewhere, it was a busy weekend of action for the club's senior and youth teams.

The 1st XI were away against Cavan in the Gordon West Cup and progressed to the next round following an 18-3 victory.

There were also commanding wins for the U14s and U16s who defeated Finn Valley 40-0 in their respective U14 West and U16 West matches.

Carrickfergus were the visitors to Bradley Way on Saturday afternoon in a U18 Division Two encounter, edging out the Strabane side on a 33-31 scoreline.

For further coverage, see pages 34 and 35.