Clifton Ladies recently defeated Nottingham Medoc Casuals 54-7 in the 2002 RFUW Rugby World National Cup Final at Franklin Gardens, played as a curtain raiser to the Northampton Saints v Gloucester men’s Zurich Premiership clash.

Clifton boasted 13 capped international players and their greater experience and fitness gave them the edge in the forwards, which in turn created an excellent platform for their impressive back line. Although Nottingham battled bravely in the loose, and former England international Kate Knight at fly-half put in an awesome defensive performance, the northerners could not compete with Clifton’s pace and power. By half time, the West Country side led by 39-0, after tries from centres Shannon Baker and Clare Flowers, wing Anne Marie Douglas, no.8 Pip Minto and a hat-trick by fullback Non Evans. Douglas started the ball rolling again with a second try just after halftime. Shortly after, however, Nottingham, after persistent pressure right on the line, put Irish international centre Maire Kerrin over for the try. Knight’s conversion brought the score to 44-7. Further Clifton tries from Douglas, to complete her hat-trick, and Fiona Britten on the other wing brought the score to 54-7 on 65 minutes. The Rugby World Player of the Match was awarded to Pip Minto.