Bronze for Scotland Women 7s in Rugby Europe Trophy

Scotland Women 7s finished third in the Rugby Europe Sevens Women’s Trophy following tournaments in the Czech Republic and Hungary.After their second place finish in Prague, where they enjoyed an undefeated run to the final, the Scots topped their pool in Esztergom with wins over Norway, Czech Republic and Romania.The final match on day one against Romania was a close affair with the Scots clinching a 10-7 victory in the final play.They opened their second day with a brave 12-5 win over the hosts with tries from Megan Gaffney and Jenny Maxwell and captain Mhairi Grieve stepping up with the boot.After giving it their all to make it to the final four, they were defeated by Poland (31-0) and Germany (20-12) to finish third overall.Head Coach Graham Shiel said: “The competition was very high in the Czech Republic and the changes we were forced to make ahead of Hungary created challenges, but the players stepped up and competed against very tough opposition.”Given the circumstances, I’m pleased with our performances and the players can be proud of their efforts.”Five new players joined the squad in Hungary – four of whom were uncapped – for the second leg of the Trophy.Shiel, who was appointed Head Coach earlier this season, added: “Eleven of the 17 players who played in both legs of the Trophy were uncapped.”These players now have experience playing European nations and for some this was the highest level of rugby they had ever played.”This exposure and our training camps, including two preparation tournaments in Amsterdam and London, has helped them improve as individuals.”The squad has been incredibly good to work with. Their work ethic has been exemplary.”Sevens is a very unforgiving environment and they have worked very hard, put their bodies on the line and have got the rewards for that.”