In the world of women's rugby, the unexpected can always happen, and the 2023 Premiership Women's Rugby (PWR) final is a testament to that. The stage is set for an epic showdown between Saracens and Ealing Trailfinders, with the latter having pulled off a stunning upset against three-time defending champions Gloucester-Hartpury. This game is not just about the result; it's about the narrative, the momentum, and the potential for a new era in women's rugby.
The Rise of the Underdogs
Ealing Trailfinders' victory over Gloucester-Hartpury was more than just a win; it was a statement. The team, led by the formidable duo of scrum-half Olivia Apps and full-back Zoe Harrison, showcased the power of collective effort and tactical brilliance. Apps, named PWR Player of the Season, was instrumental in her team's success, scoring two tries and inspiring a comeback win. Her partner in crime, Harrison, was equally impressive, missing only one of six kicks at goal, a display that highlighted the team's depth and consistency.
The Battle of the Giants
The final pits two powerhouses against each other: Saracens, seeking to reclaim their dominance after a commanding era from 2017-2022, and Ealing Trailfinders, determined to prove that their upset against Gloucester-Hartpury was no fluke. Saracens, who defeated Exeter 40-38 in their semi-final, had a far from convincing win, with Exeter leading until the 75th minute. This game is not just about the result; it's about the narrative, the momentum, and the potential for a new era in women's rugby.
The Road to the Final
The semi-finals were a testament to the league's competitiveness, with both games being see-sawing affairs. Exeter, despite falling short, showcased the depth of talent in the league, with players like Apps and Harrison leading the charge. The USA international, Hope Rogers, scored two tries in the first half, giving her team a narrow lead at the break, despite Saracens scoring four tries of their own. The second half was a tense affair, with momentum swinging back and forth, leaving fans on the edge of their seats.
The Final Word
The final is set to be a thriller, with both teams having their own stories to tell. Saracens, seeking to reignite their dominance, will be looking to overcome their recent poor record against Trailfinders. Trailfinders, on the other hand, will be looking to prove that their upset against Gloucester-Hartpury was no fluke. The game promises to be a showcase of the league's growth, with phenomenal players coming in and out, and the women's game continuing to evolve and captivate audiences worldwide.
In my opinion, the PWR final is not just about the result; it's about the journey, the resilience, and the potential for a new era in women's rugby. The league has grown so much, with internationals sometimes not even making the matchday 23, and the final is a testament to that growth. It's a chance for the sport to celebrate its progress and look forward to an exciting future. Personally, I can't wait to see what unfolds on June 28th, as the stage is set for a thrilling showdown between two teams with their own stories to tell.
