In a thrilling encounter at Ystrad Mynach, the Wolfhounds showcased their dominance to end Gwalia Lightning's Celtic Challenge title aspirations with a resounding 48-17 victory. The Irish side's clinical first-half performance set the tone for the match, as they raced to a commanding lead with seven tries before the break.

First-Half Fireworks

The Wolfhounds wasted no time asserting their authority, with captain Claire Boles opening the scoring. Her leadership was pivotal as she completed a hat-trick of tries before halftime. Leah Tarpey and Vicky Elmes Kinlan added to the tally, while Eve Higgins and Katie Corrigan also crossed the line, leaving Gwalia Lightning trailing 41-0 at the break.

Gwalia's Second-Half Resilience

Despite the overwhelming deficit, Gwalia Lightning displayed commendable spirit in the second half. Rhodd Parry broke through for their first try, followed by captain Bryonie King and Caitlin Lewis, who added consolation scores. However, the Wolfhounds' lead was insurmountable, and they comfortably secured their place in the Celtic Challenge final.

Post-Match Reactions

Wolfhounds' captain Claire Boles praised her team’s execution:

"We came here with a clear game plan, and the girls executed it brilliantly. This result is a testament to our hard work and focus."

Gwalia Lightning captain Bryonie King reflected on the match:

"We’re disappointed with the first half, but the second half showed our character. We’ll regroup and prepare for our next challenge against Clovers."

What’s Next?

The Wolfhounds will face Edinburgh in Dublin, aiming to defend their Celtic Challenge title. Meanwhile, Gwalia Lightning will host Clovers on March 8, hoping to end their season on a high note.

Line-Ups

Gwalia Lightning:

• Fullback: Jenny Hesketh
• Wings: Courtney Greenway, Caitlin Lewis
• Centres: Kelsie Webster, Molly Anderson-Thomas
• Fly-half: Carys Hughes
• Scrum-half: Sian Jones
• Forwards: Maisie Davies, Molly Wakely, Cana Williams, Paige Jones, Alaw Pyrs, Lily Terry, Catrin Stewart, Bryonie King (capt)

Wolfhounds:

• Fullback: Amy Larn
• Wings: Vicky Elmes Kinlan, Katie Corrigan
• Centres: Eve Higgins, Leah Tarpey
• Fly-half: Dannah O'Brien
• Scrum-half: Jade Gaffney
• Forwards: Niamh O'Dowd, Maebh Clenaghan, Christy Haney, Fiona Tuite, Cliodhna Ni Chonchobhair, Claire Boles (capt), Molly Boyne, Brittany Hogan

This emphatic victory solidifies the Wolfhounds’ status as the team to beat in this year’s Celtic Challenge.