Hunger and desire
Virginia rugby women on the push for Affidea Park
Virginia RFC Women made an emphatic statement in their pursuit of silverware with a commanding 22–0 victory over Carrickfergus in the opening round of the Suzanne Fleming Cup. Playing at home in Deer Park, the hosts displayed a brand of rugby that was not only disciplined and dynamic but also reflective of a new tactical identity under coach Cillian Cahill.
At 30 years old, Cahill is steering Virginia Rugby Women. Having fallen heartbreakingly short in last year’s competition - losing to the eventual champions in the semi-final - there is a renewed sense of hunger and desire this season.
“Progression is what we talked about from day one,” Cahill explained. “We were devastated to miss out on Belfast last year. That’s the goal now - to make it to that final. It is every rugby player’s dream to play in Affidea Park.”
Despite a rocky start to the season due to scheduling changes that forced Virginia to concede their opening league fixture, the team has regrouped impressively. With several fresh faces joining from neighboring Cavan Rugby (which recently folded its women’s side) and others transitioning from GAA, Cahill has built a squad rich in both athleticism and enthusiasm. “The atmosphere is brilliant,” he said. “There’s a real hunger and desire to be here. The girls come from all over - Belturbet, Kingscourt, you name it. Training nights are sharp, competitive, and full of energy.”
That energy was on full display on Sunday. From the first whistle, Virginia pressed aggressively, dominating territory and possession. Their forwards controlled the collisions, while the backs executed Cahill’s new 1–3–3–1 structure with precision. The system - popularized by professional sides like Connacht and the Ulster women - focuses on spreading forwards across the field to create width and attacking opportunities for the backs. It suits Virginia perfectly, particularly on their wide home pitch.
“We wanted to start fast and put pressure on Carrickfergus early,” Cahill said after the match. “And the girls did exactly that. The scrums and lineouts were solid, our backs moved the ball well, and we got the rewards.”
Among the standout performers was No. 8 Danika Doran, whose powerful ball-carrying continually broke the defensive line.
“Danika’s a serious weapon for us,” Cahill noted. On the wing, newcomer Kaioni Tuipulotu (11) - playing just her third game for Virginia - was another revelation.
“She’s incredibly quick,” said Cahill.
“She comes from a big rugby family and has adapted so fast. She’s an exciting addition to the squad.”
Despite difficult, slippery conditions, Virginia’s handling and composure held firm.
“It was very wet out there,” Cahill admitted, “and because we play such a fast, passing game, that can make things tricky. But the girls handled the ball superbly for such a day.”
Carrickfergus proved a tough, physical opponent, but Virginia’s defensive organization ensured a clean sheet. Even in the closing minutes - when a potential fifth try went begging due to a handling error - the home side maintained complete control.
“That one would have been the icing on the cake,” Cahill laughed, “but I can’t complain. Four tries and a place in the next round- I’m delighted.”