DRYBROOK Ladies have won the National Challenge South West One at the weekend.

The ‘squirrels’ played away at Cullompton, in Devon, where they won 7-5 and secured the top of the league spot.

Manager James Smith said: “Drybrook needed a win or a draw to finish top however Cullompton needed to win with a bonus point to secure the title. Both teams had entered South West One at the beginning of 2015/2016 season so have achieved a lot to be competing for the title.

“Drybrook kicked off playing away from the club house. Jess Hunt immediately applied pressure to the catcher from the off, you could feel the pressure from both sides as a lot was at stake. Both sides were carrying well through the forwards with both playing well-structured rugby – there was not much between the two sides.

“The second half kicked off and once again neither side were prepared to give in, Drybrook had to defend frantically as Cullompton seemed to keep gaining possession and continued to attack. Drybrook worked very hard indeed to defend and managed to hold strong with a massive tackle from Ellie (Underwood) into touch to close the game. Drybrook are now South West One champions.”

Forward of the match went to Julie Ann Norbury and back of the match went to Sarah Beven.