Centre of Excellence talents shine

Warriors Women Centre of Excellence trio Evie Clarke, Tillie Westwood and Daisie Smith were in action during last week’s North versus South under-18s clash, which saw the South triumph thanks to a last gasp try from Westwood.

The fixture, which is an important part of England Women’s performance pathway, produced some incredible rugby with all three Warriors players impressing to gain selection in a Red versus Blues match, which took place on Saturday.

Warriors scrum-half Caity Mattinson coached the Blues, while the Reds were coached by Warriors Head of Women’s Development Benny Williams.

“The girls gave a great account of themselves in both matches,” said Williams.

“Evie and Tillie linked up really well for the winning try for the South, and Daisie showed some nice moments when she came on for the North. All three earned selection for the Reds versus Blues game the following week and the teams were a mix between the South and North.

“All three played for the Blues and thoroughly enjoyed the experience.”

Evie is the younger sister of Warriors wing Cara and comes from a big rugby-playing family having also seen Brooke and Dijana pull on the Warriors jersey.

Smith plays her under-18s rugby at Tamworth and Staffordshire County, while Westwood was brought to the attention of Centre of Excellence staff through a girls only camp day and then had a successful trial.

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