Saracens will face Ealing Trailfinders in the Premiership Women's Rugby final after a historic upset saw Trailfinders defeat three-time defending champions Gloucester-Hartpury 29-26. This result is one of the biggest shocks in PWR history, ending Gloucester's three-year title reign. Saracens, who beat Exeter 40-38 in their semi-final, now have an ideal path to a fourth title, having never lost to Trailfinders, unlike their poor record against Gloucester.
Thrilling Semi-Finals
Both semi-finals were highly competitive, with the upset at Gloucester and a seesawing match in north London. Exeter led until the 75th minute, but Saracens' PWR player of the season, Olivia Apps, inspired a comeback with two tries. Her half-back partner, Zoe Harrison, was near-perfect in goal-kicking, missing only one of six attempts. The decisive moment came from full-back Jess Breach, who scored a solo try with five minutes left to seal the win.
Exeter's Near Miss
Exeter's USA international Hope Rogers scored two tries in the first half, giving them a narrow lead at the break despite Saracens scoring four tries. The second half was tense, with momentum swinging frequently. Rogers expressed disappointment, saying, "It was in our hands to win and to lose it at the end, just overwhelming feelings of disappointment."
Final Preview
Saracens will play Trailfinders on 28 June, a side they have never lost to. Apps acknowledged Exeter's superiority on the day but is excited for the final: "Trailfinders are a really strong side... It is going to be a really great match-up." She noted the growing competitiveness of the league, with many international players sometimes not even making the matchday 23.
