THE NEDLANDS and Allies rugby girls took Sydney by storm in the 7s All Girls Tournament.
The under 14s were undefeated, and the under 16s finished fourth at the end of the finals.
Coach Alan McFillin said it was the toughest test so far for all players involved, and he, Tina McFillin, fellow coach Freda Black and manager Tina Scott were very proud and happy to see the girls play so well against sides from the eastern seaboard.
Get in front of tomorrow's news for FREE
Journalism for the curious Australian across politics, business, culture and opinion.
READ NOW“The 14s win was just so exciting and with all our supporters present who could be there, plus having no reserves, the tenacity shown by these girls was and is legendary,” he said.
Young player April Alan scored three tries in the grand final against the Renegades, which the Allies took out 20-19, and was awarded player of the tournament.
Shiane Kani and Grace McFillin both played up to help the under 16s in their fixtures, and Mr McFillin said Keira MacAskill’s game-changing efforts boosted both age groups.
The team was assisted by a familiar face over east, with Rueben Cherrington’s big sister Kennedy, who plays for New South Wales in the women’s national 15-a-side union competition, helping out the group.
Mr McFillin said after success in Hong Kong and now Sydney for the under 14s, New Zealand has been mentioned as the next challenge.
“The experience would be invaluable, although the preparation would need to be extended and on point,” he said.
The coach said there would be two issues to deal with – playing against teams in a country where rugby union is the national sport, and funding.
“These tours were only reached by dedicated parents willing to sell raffle tickets, cook sausages, and support their wonderfully talented children 100 per cent,” he said.