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Ellingham & Ringwood Women 1XV: Late Fightback Falls Just Short Against North Bristol

NC1 South West (East)
14 December 2025
Full time: Ellingham & Ringwood Women 25 – 27 North Bristol 2s

Ellingham & Ringwood Women produced a spirited second-half comeback at PBL on Sunday, but despite a thrilling late surge, the Ellies narrowly missed out in a 27–25 defeat to North Bristol 2s.

The hosts struck first, breaking wide early as the backs combined sharply to send Sophie Pidgley under the posts. The conversion drifted wide in the strong wind, but the early score set the tone. North Bristol responded strongly, however, capitalising on a tough spell for the Ellies marked by penalties and missed tackles to build a commanding lead by the break.

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Half time: 5–22
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The second half saw a renewed Ellingham & Ringwood side take to the field. Millicent Curtis made an immediate impact from the bench, bringing energy and physicality at the breakdown as momentum swung back towards the home side.

On 47 minutes, sustained pressure paid off. Libby Peak charged towards the line before offloading to Anja Dixon, who powered over to reduce the deficit. North Bristol struck again soon after, but the Ellies refused to fade.

Defensively, the home side dug deep — holding North Bristol up over the line, forcing crucial knock-ons, and even turning over a scrum inside their own five-metre area. Lea Mancino and Millicent Curtis were pivotal during this period, helping Ellingham regain territory and belief.

The final ten minutes delivered high drama. A huge driving maul rumbled ten metres before Catie Perry crashed over, followed swiftly by Ellie Dolbear finishing out wide to bring the crowd to life. With time running out, Sophie Pidgley crossed once more in the 79th minute to close the gap to just two points.

The Ellies pushed for a final score after the restart, earning a penalty and battering the line, but North Bristol managed to hold them up to seal the win.

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Full time: 25–27
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Despite the result, the performance showcased the Ellies’ resilience, belief, and togetherness — fighting until the final whistle in true ERRFC fashion.

?? Ellingham & Ringwood Women — never beaten until the whistle.

FOTM - Anja Dixon, life on pitch the time for the team, great carries and Defense for the full 80!

BOTM - Sophie Pidgley, super back, two excellent tries and line breaks (pictured)