Match Report | Orkney Dragons v Peterhead - 22-11-25

Orkney Dragons 21 v Peterhead 58
Pickaquoy, 22 November 2025

After a month-long break while the league split was finalised, the Orkney Dragons returned to action seeded in the top three.

Their first fixture was a much-anticipated home clash with Peterhead—particularly after the previous away fixture was forfeited due to travel issues. .

With both teams chasing a league title opportunity, the stage was set for a fiercely competitive afternoon.

The Dragons ran out with a team sheet reminiscent of their 2016 squad, backed by what could only be described as a “bomb squad” bench. The Dragons also saw the return of scrum-half Charlene Nicolson, lining up beside her daughter Cailynn Williamson at fly-half--for a first family pairing.

Also returning after injury was Katie Allison, reclaiming her spot at flanker.
It was another team of changes with a front row of Cady Denoon, Natalie Rose, back in hook and Sandra Davey, Tyla Whitehead and Alanna Smith back in second row with Jess Thomson back as other flank and Nikita Scollie in her normal 8 position

Sara Higgins one of the newer members of the team starting on wing with Nicole Work back having been solid in the wing in previous games. Captain Angie Shearer back in inside centre with Catherine Green outside centre and Aleisha Womack in full back and a bench consisting of Laura Baillie, Stacey Tualasea, Naomi (Buff) Bremner, Yvonne Rendall(Helga) and Skye Taylor.
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Orkney kicked off and the early exchanges were physical, but Peterhead were first to strike.

Despite strong defensive efforts from Sandra Davey, Aleisha Womack, Angie Shearer, Catherine Green and Cady Denoon, the visitors managed to move the ball wide and score the opening try. Moments later, a Peterhead injury led to both teams dropping to 14 players under “game on” rules, with Alanna Smith leaving the field.

A turnover inspired by tackles from captain Angie Shearer and vice-captain Nikita Scollie gave Orkney a foothold, with strong carries from Aleisha Womack and Natalie Rose. However, Peterhead regained control and, after a series of phases, crossed again in the corner.

The Dragons’ defence continued to work tirelessly--Tyla Whitehead, Charlene Nicolson, Cailynn Williamson, Jess Thomson and Katie Allison all putting their bodies on the line—but Peterhead’s physical pack forced their way over for a third try.

In the midst of the action, Jess Thomson took a knock to the nose, with Stacey Tualasea replacing her, and Skye Taylor coming on for Sara Higgins. The fresh legs paid off quickly: from an Orkney scrum, Stacey broke away, popping toAleisha. After several strong carries from the forwards and a near-score from Nikita, it was Aleisha Womack who finally broke the line for Orkney’s first try. Cailynn Williamson added the conversion.

Momentum began to swing. Errors from Peterhead gave Orkney more possession, and strong runs from Angie Shearer, Laura Baillie (on for Sandra Davey) and Stacey Tualasea pressed the visitors back. Even after Peterhead added another try late in the half, Orkney responded brilliantly.

With reshuffles across the backline--Aleisha Womack to 9, Charlene Nicolson to 10 and Cailynn Williamson to fullback—Orkney mounted a superb multi-phase attack. A turnover from Nikita Scollie sparked quick hands through Womack, Williamson, Green, then back to the forwards. Finding space once again, Aleisha Womack cut through the defence for her second try. Williamson slotted the conversion, closing the half at Orkney 14 – Peterhead 22.

Second Half

The Dragons emerged fired up, but early turnovers gave Peterhead dangerous opportunities. Injuries to Tyla Whitehead and Natalie Rose forced Sandra and Jess back onto the field. After repeated warnings for high tackles, Orkney were reduced to 13 when Nikita Scollie was shown a yellow card for the teams’ cumulative infringements—an advantage Peterhead capitalised on to extend their lead.

Still, the Dragons refused to fold. Strong carries from Cady Denoon, Skye Taylor and Katie Allison pushed deep into Peterhead territory. After sustained pressure, Cady Denoon powered over the line for Orkney’s third try, again converted by Williamson.

As the Dragons surged again toward the tryline, a heavy tackle winded Alanna Smith, leading to another turnover. With Alanna and Katie off, Yvonne Rendall entered the fray alongside the returning Sara Higgins, Yvonne immediately making her presence felt with dominant ruck work.

Despite Orkney’s grit, Peterhead capitalised on a loose kick and added another try. In the closing stages, their pace and forward power exploited gaps in the tiring Dragons’ defence, allowing them to score five more tries and secure a commanding win.

While the final scoreline favoured the visitors, the Dragons displayed enormous heart, adaptability and determination throughout the match—refusing to give up despite injuries, reshuffles, and playing ‘game on’ rules with reduced numbers.

The Dragons would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Laura, Stacey, Buff, and Helga for coming out of retirement to lend their strength and experience to the game. Still showing sheer determination, exceptional tackling, relentless rucking and counter-rucking, and unmatched game knowledge was greatly appreciated by the team.

The Dragons extend their thanks to Peterhead for making the overnight trip north; to Jo Inkster for stepping in to referee; and to John Cairns for his coaching support.
A final thank you goes to our match sponsors: Kirkjuvagr Gin and NorthLink Ferries.

Auld Prop