Garioch are now almost assured of being in the women’s Arnold Clark Premiership again next season after an excellent 50-5 bonus point win over Wigtownshire in an important Regional Play-Off Series match.
On Saturday, the Inverurie side were hosting Wigtownshire in their penultimate play-off clash knowing that a good result would put them the top of the standings.
In recent weeks – since Highland dropped out – regional league winners Wigtownshire and Dundee Valkyries have been battling it out in the play-offs with Garioch, who finished bottom in the 2025/26 Premiership table to see who would be in the top flight come 2026/27.
And, after this Kellands Park victory, Garioch are now ahead of Wigtownshire on points difference at the top of the standings. It means that Garioch just need to get one match point – or not lose by a big margin – at home to third placed Dundee at home this coming Saturday to make sure of winning the mini competition.
When Garioch and Wigtownshire met previously they drew 19-19, but this was a different story as the former put the latter, who could only travel with 15 players due to a long injury list, to the sword.
Young Saba Alexander led the way with four tries and five conversions with Ella Johnson, Lesley Davis, Nikki Simpson and Bronwen Mullinor also scoring tries.
“This win nearly secures our place in the Premiership for next year so we are all buzzing,” experienced player Sammy Ross said.
“We are now getting ready for another big game against Dundee.”
Sophie Mann scored the Wigtownshire try on the day and they have been excellent throughout this competition, the fact that they were only 7-5 down at the break here showing their battling qualities of which they can be proud.
Garioch are pictured celebrating their important win over Wigtownshire – thanks to Gareth Falls
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