Ballymena Women RFC prepare for Suzanne Fleming Cup final this Saturday

BALLYMENA Women RFC bid to make history this Saturday at Kingspan Stadium (5pm).

They tackle Clogher Valley in the Suzanne Fleming Cup final with the aim of bringing the coveted award to Eaton Park for the first time.

Ballymena Head Coach, Scott Dowds-Moffatt saw his side bring the Suzanne Fleming Shield home last season, a major first for the town club.

Clogher Valley were runners-up in the Suzanne Fleming Cup, losing out to Banbridge.

Head Coach, Dowds-Moffatt, told Guardian Sport they are delighted to have reached this Saturday’s final.

“As part of our pre-season objectives our key goal was going deeper into the main competition, which we have achieved,” he outlined. “Having been promoted from Championship B to Championship A this season, we also called out a Top 4 League finish which we look to be on course to achieving and we resolved to increase our playing numbers which we have done.”

Dowds-Moffatt said irrespective of the result on Saturday, the class of 2024-2025 has had a successful season.

But he pointed out that they have beaten higher level opposition before - “And we can do so again,” he declared.

The Head Coach said they are well aware Clogher Valley are an excellent side.

“They have big ball carriers, skilled play makers, sure footed kickers and fast finishers and so represent a threat no matter where they are at on the pitch with the ball in hand,” said Dowds-Moffatt.

“They play their rugby in the Premiership, the League above ours and the highest league within Ulster.  They are plain favourites to win.  But we are not without talent, and anything can happen in a Cup final.”

Captain Millar

Meanwhile, Ballymena Womens captain Hannah Millar said success in rugby can be measured in many ways – building friendships, improving fitness, enjoying the game, and of course, winning matches.

“This season, the Ballymena Women’s 1XV has achieved all of these, making it a truly memorable season,” Millar told Guardian Sport.

“As captain, I have been extremely proud to have been given the opportunity to lead this team. I look forward to leading us out to play in Saturday’s Cup Final at Kingspan Stadium. It will be a moment of personal significance, as different members of my family have had the privilege of playing there before me. I take great pride in following in their footsteps.”

Friends and family

The captain said they hope to see many friends, family, and Ballymena Rugby Club supporters in the stands, cheering them on as they give our all in this final challenge of the season.

Women & Girls Convenor Áine Fraser said she could not be more proud of “this incredible team of ladies.”

“Their dedication, resilience, and sheer determination on the field are truly inspiring. Every tackle, every try, and every hard-fought game is a testament to their strength and teamwork,” said Aine.

“After starting out only three seasons ago, winning the Suzanne Fleming Shield last season, getting promoted up a League this season, and now heading to the Suzanne Fleming Cup Final, they continue to break barriers, defy expectations, and show everyone in the rugby community what they’re made of.”

The Women and Girls Convenor said she feels so proud when she sees the Girls Youth “progress up into this amazing squad and feel welcomed by all the team, as they begin their Senior Rugby Journey.”

“Our Senior Women are inspiring role models to all our younger players and represent the spirit of rugby that we value so much in Ballymena RFC,” she said.

“I wish the team all the best this Saturday at Kingspan and hope to see all our family, friends and club supporters out cheering the team on.”