TWRUFC Ladies 1st XV 24 vs Folkestone 10

9th Nov 2025, KO 14:00

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Match Report

Match Report: Thanet Wanderers Ladies 24 – 10 Folkestone RFC

Sunday 9th November 2025 | St Peters

Photos: Ade Davies

A good crowd turned out at St Peters on Sunday to watch a hard-fought contest between Thanet Wanderers Ladies and Folkestone. Both sides battled fiercely in a match full of strong tackles, scrummaging power, and determined running rugby.

Thanet kicked off and were immediately tested, as Folkestone broke through the line early, but solid defensive work from Neave Evans, Georgia Elks, and Shannon Cook set the tone for a committed defensive display. Thanet's forwards led by Emily Williams, Rebecca Hewitt, and Hollie Callaghan were immense in the scrums, driving Folkestone off the ball and providing a strong attacking platform.

After sustained pressure and several close calls held up over the line, Thanet's persistence finally paid off. Excellent build-up play saw Neave Evans power through the tackles to score the opening try, converted by Alexandra White to make it 7–0. Thanet continued to control territory, with great link play from Georgia Elks and Helen Hollinsworth keeping the tempo high. Before half-time, Neave Evans again showed her strength and pace, breaking through for her second try under the posts. Tabs Raymonde added the extras to make it 14–0 at the break.

Folkestone came out firing in the second half, finding a gap through Thanet's defensive line to score and reduce the deficit to 14–5. But Thanet responded in style. Helen Hollinsworth led a strong carry deep into Folkestone's 22 before the ball was moved wide to Shannon Cook who sprinted clear to finish in the corner 19–5 to Thanet.

With the crowd urging them on, Thanet's relentless pressure paid off again when Gee Cordell spotted space on the blind side from a penalty tap. She darted through two tackles and dived over in the corner for Thanet's fourth try, extending the lead to 24–5.
Folkestone managed a late consolation score out wide, but Thanet's defence held firm until the final whistle to seal a well-earned 24–10 victory.

Building Momentum Under New Leadership

Thanet's win reflected not only their determination on the day but also the growing unity within the squad. Under the guidance of head coach Liz Cokayne-Delves and the wider coaching team, the players are really coming together, learning, adapting, and building confidence every week.

Despite missing several key players through injury and personal circumstances, the squad continues to show tremendous commitment and spirit, giving everything at training and on match days. The coaching group have introduced new ideas and fresh approaches to help the team build on the progress made over the last four years, and to push themselves to achieve even more.

There's a renewed energy around the group, a sense of pride, purpose, and belief that's clearly showing on the pitch. The players are embracing the changes, working hard for each other, and proving that Thanet Wanderers Ladies are very much a team on the rise.

Head Coach Liz Cokayne-Delves reflected on both the performance and the progress being made this season: “This season, we've put a real focus on sharpening our rucking game, especially around the speed of support and efficiency at the breakdown. While it hasn't always been flawless, the progress has been clear week after week. Facing Folkestone, undoubtedly the strongest breakdown unit we've encountered, was a true test, and we adapted impressively. What stood out most was the way this team plays for each other. That unity and commitment were on full display.”

Back of the Match: Neave Evans; great runs, strong carries, and tireless work at the ruck, capping it off with two superb tries.
Forward of the Match: Helen Hollinsworth; carried powerfully, supported well, and was influential across the park.

Debut: Congratulations to Kate Chaplin and to Liz Cokayne-Delves for pulling on the Thanet shirt both making a big impact in a memorable win.

A special mention to Coach Liz Cokayne-Delves, who quite literally led from the front; lacing up her boots to step onto the pitch and replace an injured player, showing the same passion and commitment she asks of her team.