Match Report | Lismore RFC v Orkney Dragons 28-2-26

Women’s National Plate
Edinburgh, Saturday 28 February 2026
Lismore RFC 55, Orkney Dragons 12

The Dragons made the journey south to face Lismore RFC in their latest Women’s National Plate fixture, building on the momentum and lessons taken from the previous week’s contest against Lenzie Women.

Lismore, playing on home soil, proved clinical when opportunities presented themselves. From the outset, the match was physical, with both sides committed in contact. The Dragons worked hard to establish territory, with early carries from Skye Taylor setting the tone and the forward pack fronting up to the challenge.

Up front, Cady Denoon, Sandra Davey and Vanessa Linton embraced the physical exchanges, laying a solid platform in defence and around the breakdown. Jessica Thomson made an important impact over the ball, securing a key turnover at a crucial stage and halting Lismore momentum.

Lucy Flett led with her usual physical presence, putting in big tackles and offering calm decision-making under pressure. Alanna Smith and Antonia Ridell added work rate and defensive steel, while Ealasaid Nicleoid worked tirelessly at scrum-half to keep the Dragons organised.
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In the backs, Cailynn Williamson managed territory and communication effectively. Catherine Green and Caitlin Critchley held their width and worked hard defensively, while Natalie Timberlake added strength in midfield. Vice-Captain Aleisha Womack once again led from the front, crossing for a well-earned try and adding the conversion.

Freya Laurenson produced one of the defensive moments of the afternoon with an outstanding try-saving tackle, underlining the Dragons’ commitment when under pressure. Skye Taylor was also rewarded with a try from close range, reflecting the collective effort of the forwards. Sara Higgins added energy from the bench, maintaining intensity as the game progressed.

As the match wore on, injuries began to take their toll. Vanessa Linton, Cailynn Williamson and Freya Laurenson all carried knocks, forcing positional changes and leaving the Dragons stretched. Despite this, the team refused to let their heads drop. Players stepped into unfamiliar roles, defensive lines reset time and again, and the work rate never dipped.

While Lismore were able to extend their lead as the game unfolded, the Dragons continued to compete until the final whistle. Even when numbers were reduced, the commitment in contact and the willingness to carry into heavy traffic remained unwavering.

Though the result did not fall in Orkney’s favour, the performance was defined by resilience and grit. Finishing the match short-handed, the Dragons showed real character and togetherness — qualities that will serve them well in the fixtures ahead.

The squad will regroup and look to build on the positives as preparations continue for the remainder of the campaign.

A big thank you to the Shetland lasses; Caitlin, Freya, Antonia, Ealasaid and Natalie. With the big tackles and bringing the team together. Also, thank you to the injured players who travelled down to be coach, medic, linesmen and support.

TW