Arnold Clark Women’s Premiership feature match: Heriot’s v Stirling

STIRLING, SCOTLAND - AUGUST 09: Eilidh Collins of Heriot’s and Ciorstaidh Ainsworth of Stirling County during an Arnold Clark Premiership launch day at Stirling Rugby Club, on August 09, 2024, in Stirling, Scotland.

Finishing in fifth the previous season, Heriot’s have since seen several changes to their lineup, and will be looking to get up to speed quickly in the new season.

Stirling meanwhile are looking forward to contesting for a third straight championship winning season, after clinching the previous season’s title in dramatic fashion, coming back from a 19-0 deficit to overturn league table-toppers Watsonian FC in the final.

Five things to watch out for this weekend:

• Stirling’s first and second receiver pairing of Ceitidh and Ciorstaidh Ainsworth, as sisters, have a strong connection and are looking to back up strong previous seasons
• Stirling number 8 Samaanther Taganekurukuru has also been tipped for a big season ahead. In June she was called up to the Scotland U20 squad for the Six Nations Summer Series
• Watsonian FC, who take on Cartha Queens Park this weekend, haven’t lost in the opening weekend since 2017/18
• 2024 Sarah Beaney Cup finalists Hillhead Jordanhill host 2023-24 eighth-place finishers Stewartry in their season opener
• Garioch tight-head prop Megan Riach is returning to the club game after a stint with the Scotland U18 squad for the Six Nations Festival in April.

This weekend’s matches:

Saturday, 24 August:

• Garioch RFC v Corstorphine RFC, 2PM
• Heriot’s Rugby Women v Stirling County RFC, 2PM
• Hillhead Jordanhill RFC v Stewartry RFC, 2PM
• Watsonian FC v Cartha Queens Park RFC, 2PM