Women’s Final Preview

The chance to finish a career decorated in club rugby success beckons for UC’s Sophie Anderson. 

Anderson will sign off after Saturdays Bascik Transport Metro Premier Women’s Final against Christchurch with over 200 club rugby caps to her name

“It would be fantastic to finish with the win, but it’s really about the team this week. We have quite a young team, so for them to experience a win would be great.” Said Anderson.

After playing for HSOB Anderson switched to UC forging a legacy that will take some filling. 

“Soph is a stalwart of not only UC Rugby, but women’s rugby across Waitaha Canterbury.”  Said UC Coach Josh Sprott.

“Her role in protecting the heritage and history of our great club has been incredibly valuable as we transition towards the next generation of players. On the field she is the fiercest competitor who knows how to find her way to a meaty or two too.”

With the ledger sitting at once a piece in during round robin, Anderson says splitting the two will likely come down to who’s the most disciplined. “We have to be careful, Izzy (Waterman) has a great boot on her and can kick from anywhere, so we need to be tidy and do things right.”

Defending champions Christchurch will have home ground advantage, also looking to celebrate Captain Kaylee Tavendales 100th cap for the club.

“It’ll be a big game for her,” said fellow forward Steph Te Ohaere Fox, “she does anything and everything for the club, she’s a great hearty player. She does everything for the team and leads from the front.”

With rain set to persist throughout the weekend Te Ohaere Fox is expecting the battle up front to be the deciding factor. ‘We are a bit light on front rowers at the moment, so fingers crossed we can get through. They took the game to us when we played them last and got success, so we will need to do the same on Saturday.”