Hay Magpies Rugby League Club made a mark on the long history of the sport in Hay, when the first Magpies woman’s league side took to the field in Young.

The side has been bolstered by solid recruiting by the club and despite most players playing their first competition game of the contact sport coach Jessie Carter was pleased with the showing.

“I was really impressed with the girls first game,” Carter said. “Our team did very well in defending such an experienced side, in last year’s premiers the Queanbeyan Blues.

“Imah Ga Navoto, Wendy Gonevulavula and Kiji Vanunino were a great to have on the side bringing their experience from the emerald tigers to light.

“Hannah Stewart was a stand out in defence putting her body on the line whenever she could. Kayla Barrett was the speed of team breaking the line in every chance she could. Zoe McRae and Lily Weymouth proved to be the workhorses in the middle of the field.”

Carter said by the second game of the regional women’s 9s competition the Hay side was much more confident in their abilities and it showed in the results.

“The girls had improved immensely!” she enthused.

“The hits were harder and the runs stronger. Our Magpies looked great in attack, we spread the ball and found space against opponents Young.

“Each and every one of the players stepped up on the day and I couldn’t be prouder of the efforts from them all.

“I can only see the girls improving from here and I can’t wait to see what the season offers.”

Players of the day were Wendy Gonevulavula and Hannah Stewart.

Results: Game 1 Queanbeyan Blues 24 Hay 8. Tries Wendy Gonevulavula, Hannah Stewart. Game 2 Young Cherrypickers 16 Hay 12. Tries Wendy Gonevulavula, Zoe McRae, Kiji Vanunino.

This article appeared in The Riverine Grazier, 20 March 2024.