After three consecutive postponements and limited preparation time on grass, Ellingham & Ringwood Women made a determined return to league action with a gritty 17–10 victory away at Supermarines. Facing a home side who had built momentum with four January fixtures, the Ellies delivered a performance built on defensive steel, clinical finishing, and relentless work rate.

The opening exchanges were tightly contested, with most of the play taking place around midfield. Supermarine enjoyed early possession, applying pressure and forcing turnovers, but the Ellies’ defensive line stood strong. The breakthrough came on eight minutes when slick hands across the backline sent Helena Sinclair down the wing to open the scoring.

Following a brief injury stoppage, Ellingham capitalised on field position. From a penalty and lineout inside the Supermarine 22, Rosalind ‘Swanny’ Reed powered over for the second try, with Molly Hadfield adding the conversion to stretch the lead.

Supermarine responded with sustained pressure close to the Ellies’ try line. After several defensive stands, the hosts eventually forced their way over just before the break, leaving the visitors leading 12–5 at halftime.

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The second half began with Supermarine pushing hard for territory, but Ellingham absorbed the pressure well. Fresh legs from the bench helped maintain intensity, and the visitors soon struck again. Strong phase play released Ellie Dolbear, who crossed for the Ellies’ third try to extend the advantage.

Injury disruptions continued to test the squad, including a forced reshuffle following a knock to Jazz McLean and debuts for Lula Rees and Emma Frampton, both stepping in confidently to maintain structure and momentum.

Supermarine refused to back down and added a late try to close the gap, setting up a tense final few minutes. The Ellies’ defence once again proved decisive, forcing a crucial knock-on from the restart to seal the victory and secure an important return to winning ways.

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Five-star defensive effort, clinical finishing, and a squad performance full of character saw the Ellies claim a deserved away win after a disrupted start to 2026.

? FOTM – Maria East: Outstanding 80-minute performance, relentless defensive effort and powerful carries throughout.
? BOTM – Helena Sinclair: Impressive all-round display, combining excellent defence with a clinical opening try and strong handling.