Women's Rugby - It's the final for the Rascasses!

Just like last year, the women’s championship final will pit Entente des Iles du Nord against Good Luck de Gosier, the regional champions for over a decade. This final will once again be played in Goyave, just like last year, at the Stade de la Rose. Beyond the tactics that will be employed to win, there is an important factor to consider for this season’s final match. When playing away, the players from Saint Barth and Saint Martin struggle to field a full roster. “This is a factor to consider, both in terms of team composition and the style of rugby we’ve enjoyed playing since the start of the season,” explains Fabien Maurel, coach of Entente Iles du Nord.
Another factor not to be overlooked is Entente’s 40-35 victory in Bellevue, Saint-Martin, against this same Good Luck team two weeks ago, on the final day of the regular season. A win that gives hope and guarantees, without a doubt, a spectacular final this coming Saturday. Elise Howard, the team’s top try-scorer, believes even more strongly than before in her team’s chances: “From the outside, our victory against Good Luck may have surprised some people, but we knew we were capable of competing with that team. And for the final, by keeping possession for extended periods, putting in a lot of effort, when an opening presents itself, we’ll see it through. We’ll have to stay focused from the start until the final whistle, because it could go either way.”
So for two seasons now, the Entente des filles du Nord has been shaking up the hierarchy to make it to the regional final—something never seen before. Marine Cantatore, one of the Rascasse leaders, explains the team’s progress: “Every year, we try to add more joint training sessions and strengthen the bond between neighboring islands so we can grow together. The players are motivated, and we try to maintain that mindset. We must also highlight the important work of our coaches, who go above and beyond to help us succeed as best we can.” These comments are echoed by Elise Howard: “This season, the team’s strength really lies in our collective spirit. There’s a lot of solidarity among us, and each of us brings something to the group. Even in tough times, no one gives up.” The results of this commitment are clear, as reaching two finals in two consecutive years is no small feat. This is what Célyne Galibert, one of the driving forces behind this rugby team, implies: “We’re heading into this final with a larger roster than last year, with players who’ve gained experience and have already played in a final. Mentally, we know what to expect now.” And the keys to the game? “Don’t panic, play together, spread the ball around, and have a strong, aggressive defense,” concludes Célyne “Galib’” Galibert.
Now it’s time to take the field—the game kicks off at 6 p.m. this Saturday at Stade de la Rose in Goyave.