01 Feb Women 2nd/J1’s Push Ashbourne in Derby Clash
Leinster Women’s League Division 3
Navan 0 Ashbourne 12
Thursday 29th January 2026 | Balreask Old
Navan RFC Women’s 2nd/J1 XV produced a hugely committed and encouraging performance despite a 12–0 defeat to Ashbourne in Thursday night’s rescheduled Leinster Women’s League Division 3 Meath derby at Balreask Old.
Played in truly testing conditions, with relentless rain and a biting, freezing wind, the contest was a physical and attritional affair that showcased the character and growing strength of this Navan squad.
Ashbourne struck early with a try in the opening minutes, but Navan responded superbly. From that point on, the home side applied sustained pressure, pinning Ashbourne deep inside their own half for much of the first period. Strong work at set-piece and impressive defensive organisation saw Navan dominate territory, and they were unfortunate not to be rewarded on the scoreboard for their efforts.
Ashbourne emerged with renewed intent after the break, but once again Navan’s defence stood firm. Tackle after tackle was made as the home side showed immense grit and determination, repeatedly forcing errors and denying the visitors clear scoring opportunities.
A late try in the corner during the final ten minutes eventually sealed the result for Ashbourne, but it did little to dampen the spirit or pride of a Navan side who battled to the final whistle.
This performance marks significant progress for the Women’s 2nd team. The previous meeting between the sides ended in a 41–7 defeat, underlining just how far this squad has come in a short space of time. Improvements were evident across the park, with scrums, lineouts, attack and defence all showing real development, and maximum effort on display from first minute to last.
“The Central Navan” Player of the Match: Louise Coyle – a deserved award after a standout performance.
With just four games remaining in the Division 3 campaign, the squad now turns its attention to their next challenge against Barnhall on Sunday 8th February, part of an exciting senior women’s home triple-header at Balreask Old. Supporters are encouraged to put the date in their calendars and come along to enjoy a fantastic day of women’s rugby.
Navan RFC would like to thank all Women’s team sponsors, with special thanks to main team sponsor P. Bermingham’s Bar for their continued support.
Navan RFC Women’s 2nd/J1 Squad:
Lauren Fitzpatrick, Mary-Louise Bridgeman, Anna Mennis, Tara Quinn, Mairead Carty, Keelan O’Connor, Louise Crinion, Martina O’Neill, Paula Keating, Ciara Quinn, Kym McGrath, Anna McGarry, Louise Coyle, Molly Egan, Leanne O’Neill, Anna Marchant, Lisa O’Neill, Victoria Quinn, Shannon Mead, Alanna Kelly, Geraldine Lynch, Sorcha Love.