The under 17s played a Hampshire development side while the under 14s competed in a triangular tournament against Hampshire and Buckinghamshire. 

The pool of enthusiastic Berkshire players has been growing for a couple of years with players channelled into four clubs - Bracknell, Newbury, Reading and Slough - to develop a strong club base across the county.  The clubs have developed a close relationship to ensure that players get the maximum possible match experience through loaning players in need of match play for fixtures.

A club league is some way off so the establishment of a county side not only gives the players match experience but also provides the important link between club and regional rugby that already exists in several other counties. 

With more exposure the message will also reach schools that rugby can be a game for girls too, teaching coordination, transferable athletic agilities and strong team skills as well as developing general fitness and building individual confidence. 

“All the girls from each county team must be applauded for a great display of rugby,” said Berkshire head coach Nicola Eames. “The ability, ball handling, running skills and the grit and determination they played with was at a very high standard.

“It was clear that all the players thoroughly enjoyed the day and Berkshire’s thanks must go to all the match officials and to the host club.

“It is hoped that this will be the first of several inter-county matches.  Berkshire will look back on December 4th 2005 as the day Berkshire County rugby for Girls was born.”

Match results:

Hampshire U14   27    Berkshire U14   0
Berkshire U14   20     Buckinghamshire U14   5
Hampshire Development U17   5      Berkshire U17   15

Ends…