Wigtownshire Ladies produced a determined and ultimately commanding performance to overcome Dundee Ladies on Sunday 15th March, in a match that tested both sides to their limits in truly atrocious and ever-changing weather conditions.

With driving wind, heavy rain, bursts of hail and even spells of sunshine all playing their part, it was never going to be a day for free-flowing rugby. Instead, it became a battle of resilience, physicality and composure — qualities that Wigtownshire showed in abundance as the game wore on.

The hosts were slow out of the blocks, struggling initially to adapt to the swirling conditions and allowing Dundee to settle into the contest early. However, it was Wigtownshire who eventually broke the deadlock, with Carla Campbell crossing the line after a period of sustained pressure to give Shire a 5–0 lead.

The advantage was short-lived, as Dundee responded almost immediately with a try of their own to level the scores at 5–5, capitalising on a lapse in concentration from the home side.

That response seemed to spark Wigtownshire into life.

What followed was a dominant spell from Shire, who began to impose themselves physically and territorially. With their forward pack laying a solid platform, the backs were able to capitalise, and the tries began to flow. Lydia Downie was first to add to the tally, followed by Laura McNeil, Kaylin Young and Sophie Mann, as Wigtownshire ran in four unanswered tries to take control of the game.

In extremely difficult kicking conditions, Sophie Hall showed great composure to slot two conversions, stretching the lead to 29–5.

Dundee refused to go away and managed to pull a score back before the interval with a converted try of their own, reducing the deficit to 29–12 and giving themselves a glimmer of hope heading into half-time.

Wigtownshire, however, had the final say of the half. DJ Birkhead powered over to secure another try, ensuring the hosts went into the break with a strong 34–12 advantage.

With the wind now at their backs in the second half, Shire would have been hoping to push on and add further scores. However, the game became increasingly fractured, with injuries disrupting momentum and forcing positional changes across the team.

Credit must go to Dundee, whose defensive effort in the second period was both organised and relentless, making it difficult for Wigtownshire to find their rhythm.

Despite these challenges, the home side did manage to add further gloss to the scoreboard. Holly Murdoch crossed for a well-worked try, before Carla Campbell grabbed her second of the afternoon to cap an excellent individual performance. Sophie Hall once again added the extras on both occasions, rounding off the scoring for Wigtownshire.

It was, in many ways, a hard-fought victory in difficult circumstances, underlining both the physical demands of the contest and the character within the squad.

Forward of the Match went to Neve Finlay, who made a huge impact on her return to the side. Having missed the early part of the campaign, she delivered an outstanding performance — organising the pack, carrying strongly, and leading from the front throughout.

Back of the Match was awarded to Carla Campbell, whose all-round contribution once again proved invaluable. Clinical in attack and dependable in defence, her consistency and work rate continue to set the standard for the team.

Opposition Player of the Match was awarded to Kaylin Young, who, for the third consecutive week, impressed with her versatility and power. Moving seamlessly from the second row into the backline, she proved a constant threat, breaking the gain line time and time again.

Attention now turns to the final match of the playoff campaign, as Wigtownshire prepare for a long trip to Garioch following Highlands’ withdrawal from the competition. With promotion to Scotland’s top flight within touching distance, the stakes could not be higher.

Victory in Inverurie on Saturday 4th April would secure a historic first promotion for Wigtownshire Ladies — and they will be hoping for a strong travelling support to help them over the line on what promises to be a landmark occasion for the club.