Kilkenny women make it three from three with dominant win in Navan

The Kilkenny Women hit the road to Navan to take on long-time rivals, aiming for a third consecutive victory in the Leinster League.

Determined to start strong and keep their unbeaten record intact, the team knew they’d need to play smart, physical rugby from the outset.

With miserable weather conditions making handling difficult, both sides focused on short, controlled play to maintain possession.

Kilkenny kicked off and quickly regained possession, setting the tone early. Within minutes, both teams were locked in a tight scrum battle, the Kilkenny pack holding firm and low.

Spotting a gap in the Navan defence, Kelly Comerford powered her way over the line for the opening try. Emily Kenny added the extras, giving Kilkenny a 7-0 lead.

The game settled into a tactical kicking contest, with both sides probing for territory. Strong carries from Kate O’Neill and Caroline Quirke pushed Kilkenny forward, and despite the slippery conditions causing a few handling errors, the visitors executed several set plays with precision.

A sharp lineout led to a quick ball from Rosa Phelan, who released Megan Callanan before Emily Kenny charged through the Navan defence to score Kilkenny’s second try. Kenny’s conversion made it 14-0.

Navan struggled to find rhythm as Kilkenny continued to dominate the lineouts. With Caroline Quirke relentless in her defensive pressure, another turnover led to an attacking platform for the Cats.

What followed was a textbook team try, built on relentless work at the breakdown and quick, intelligent passing. Lieke Hoban moved the ball swiftly to Tina Wright, who fed Rachel Brickell for the finish under the posts. Kenny’s third successful conversion extended the lead to 21-0.

Despite a yellow card reducing Kilkenny to 14 players, the visitors maintained their defensive structure and intensity. Navan eventually broke through after sustained pressure, crossing in the corner to narrow the gap to 21–7.

The final stages played out as a tense back-and-forth contest, with neither side adding to the scoreboard.

The Kilkenny Women now enjoy a well-earned break next weekend before returning to action on November 2 when they travel to Ashbourne, looking to continue their unbeaten run in the league.

Kilkenny - Maria Ní Thuama, Genevieve O’Mahony, Kate Galvin, Caroline Quirke, Karen Delaney, Tina Wright, Alice Brennan, Lieke Hoban, Rosa Phelan, Megan Callanan, Kelley Comerford, Laura Delaney, Emily Kenny, Kate O’Neill, Rachel Brickell.

Replacements: Jenny Kirwan, Tara Holohan, Nicola Woodgate, Lorna McMahon, Anita St Ledger, Ciara Harte, Claire Evans.

Navan- Lauren Fitzpatrick, Róisín Watters, Anna Mennis, Kaetlin Wallace, Victoria Quinn, Keelan O’Connor, Tara Quinn, Martina O’Neill, Paula Keating, Anna McGarry, Leanne O’Neill, Aisling Kelly, Alanna Caffrey, Kym McGrath, Rosanna O’Neill.

Replacements: Mary-Louise Bridgeman, Sinead Ryan, Shaunagh Keogan, Bronagh OSullivan, Geraldine Lynch.