17 Aug Resurgent Leinster U18 Girls Deliver Victory as Emma O’Rourke Shifts to Lock
The bounce-back was emphatic at Energia Park on Saturday, 15th August, as the Leinster Under-18 Girls produced a thrilling performance to overpower Connacht 62–19 in Round 2 of the 2026 PwC U18 Girls Interprovincial Series.
Playing in the curtain-raiser ahead of the senior fixture in Donnybrook, the reigning champions put on a masterclass in attacking rugby, showcasing lethal pace, sharp handling, and a dominant set-piece platform to get their championship defense firmly back on track.
Navan RFC youth star Emma O’Rourke played a key role in setting that physical platform. Having started at Number Eight in Cork for the opening round, Emma demonstrated her impressive tactical versatility by moving into the engine room at second-row.
Her tireless work rate in the tight channels, dominant tackling, and aerial authority at the restart and lineout allowed Leinster’s dynamic backline to play with rapid front-foot ball throughout the afternoon.
Leinster laid down a marker early, building momentum through strong forward carries and swift backline execution. Despite a spirited push from Connacht, Leinster’s clinical attack highlighted by a hat-trick from wing Mary O’Hara proved too much to handle.
The win keeps Leinster’s flawless interprovincial run intact as they hunt for a third consecutive title. Emma’s continued impact at this level is a huge point of pride for everyone at Balreask Old, showcasing the fantastic talent coming through our youth structures.
Read the full match report on the Leinster Rugby website:
O’Hara Hat-Trick Inspires U-18 Girls to Statement Win Over Connacht
The occasion carried extra special significance for the Balreask Old community off the pitch as well. Senior Navan RFC Women’s player Aoife White took to the touchline at Energia Park, serving as Assistant Referee 2 for the match.
Seeing Navan RFC represented so prominently across both playing and officiating setups highlights the depth, passion, and multi-faceted pathway thriving within the club’s women’s section.
With a loss against Munster and a resounding victory over Connacht now under their belts, Leinster’s attention shifts to the third and final pool round on Saturday, 22nd August, when they travel north to face Ulster at Affidea Stadium.
The pool standings will determine the seedings for Finals Day at Mullingar RFC on Saturday, 30th August, where the 2026 PwC U18 Girls Interprovincial champions will be crowned.
Congratulations to Emma and Aoife on representing Navan RFC with such distinction on the provincial stage!