It proved to be a fitting festive finale in Oke’s final fixture of 2025 — and a true Christmas cracker.
The opening score came after five minutes when a strong Oke scrum deep in the Winscombe 22 saw Amelie dive over from the base to claim the first try of the afternoon. Issy added the conversion to make it 0–7. Winscombe responded swiftly, slicing through the defence to level the scores at 7–7.
Okehampton hit back immediately. A stolen ball in midfield was quickly moved wide to Mimi, who crossed for her first try of the season, with Issy again adding the extras to restore the lead at 7–14. Winscombe refused to go away and soon equalised once more at 14–14.
The visitors regained momentum through a superb line break from Imogen. With defenders closing in, she delivered a perfectly timed offload to Hetty, who touched down for her first-ever try in Okehampton colours. Issy converted to make it 14–21.
Now finding their rhythm, Okehampton began to dominate possession and territory. Issy crossed for two quick tries within five minutes, extending the lead to 14–31. However, Winscombe capitalised on penalties to reduce the deficit with another try, bringing the score back to 21–31.
Before the break, Okehampton struck again. Jenna made a superb line break to cross the whitewash, sending the visitors into half-time with a 21–36 advantage.
The second half began firmly in Winscombe’s favour, as two tries within the opening 15 minutes narrowed the gap to 31–36 and put Okehampton under real pressure — a position they have not often found themselves in this season.
Showing composure and resilience, Okehampton responded with determined defence, powerful scrummaging and renewed attacking intent. Garnet added two crucial tries, both converted by Issy, to seal a 31–48 victory.
It was a contest that required Okehampton to battle until the final whistle and one that highlighted exactly what this league is about. Positives were plentiful, including dominant scrummaging, incisive line breaks and strong defensive resolve.
Head coach Tom reflected on the performance, saying:
“There's no doubt we had to dig deep for that result today. There’s a saying that ‘good teams win, but great teams find ways to win’, and it’s been so good to see you time and time again prove your resilience, grit and determination, regardless of the personnel on the pitch.”
There were plenty of nominees for players of the match however Forward of the match went to Jess Mathewson and back of the match went to Sophie Wiseman.
The win sees Okehampton Women finish 2025 top of the table, winning all six of their league matches, leading second placed Yeovil by 3 points. It is a remarkable way to close out another successful year for the team after the league and plate double earlier on in the year.
Okehampton return to action at the Showground in the new year on 11 January 2026, welcoming Yeovil in a top-of-the-table clash that could prove decisive in the NC1 title race.
New players are always welcome at Okehampton Women no matter age (18+) or abilities. Training resumes in the new year every Tuesday from 8–9pm and Thursday from 7.30–9pm at the Ashbury 4G pitches.