Richmond Women are set to grace the hallowed turf of the Allianz Stadium, Twickenham on 18th May 2025, following a hard-fought 31–19 triumph over Cheltenham Tigers in the semi-finals of the Women's Championship Play-off. This victory marks not just a major milestone in a memorable season, but a return to the big stage for the first time in years - with silverware now just one game away.

Dominant Start Sets the Tone
From the first whistle, Richmond stamped their authority on the game. Fly-half Emma Mundy launched a pinpoint kick-off deep into Cheltenham territory, pinning the Tigers back and establishing early control. For the first 10 minutes, Richmond camped in the opposition half, applying relentless pressure and testing the structure of the Cheltenham defence.

That early dominance was rewarded with the opening try, scored by Lock, Eleanor Hunt-Pain, setting the tone for a composed and confident first half. Captain Gabby Spencer led by example throughout, her aggressive carries continually breaking the gain line, setting the platform for Richmond's attacking shape. Jordan Heil was again ever dependable, bringing tenacity in defence and calm in possession when it mattered most, putting in a fantastic Player of the Match performance as she and Rebecca Kembell both scored the final tries of the first half.

Richmond’s organisation and physicality saw them go into the break with a commanding 19–7 lead, a scoreline that reflected our grip on the game and the tempo we controlled it with.

Cheltenham’s Second-Half Resurgence
The second half brought a renewed challenge. Cheltenham came out firing, their forwards raising the intensity and breaking through the gainline. Within 15 minutes of the restart, they’d clawed their way back into the match, levelling the score and threatening to turn the tide.

But this Richmond side doesn't crack under pressure. A composed rebuild followed. Richmond steadied themselves, reasserted territory, and struck twice - centre Vicki Jackson and winger Catherine Teyssier both crossing with clinical finishes to re-establish a two-try cushion by the 61st minute.

That cushion was tested soon after. Two consecutive yellow cards saw Richmond reduced to 14 players for the final 15 minutes, but the squad’s character shone through. The bench brought fresh energy, and every single player dug deep. Despite Cheltenham throwing everything forward, Richmond’s defensive line held strong. No points were conceded in the final quarter. a gritty, determined effort that sealed a deserved 31–19 win.

A Final Showdown at Twickenham
Awaiting Richmond in the final are the formidable Old Albanians. 19 games played. 1,570 points amassed. These two powerhouses will clash for a third time this season, this time under the lights of the Allianz Twickenham Stadium in the Women's Championship Play-off Final.

Old Albanians secured their place in the final with a commanding 45–7 win over Lichfield, and having topped the Women’s Championship South 1, finishing just two points ahead of Richmond - they arrive brimming with confidence and hungry to close out a stellar season.
But history favours Richmond. We beat them 25–21 earlier this campaign and played out a 28–28 thriller just last month. With scores to settle and silverware on the line, this final has box-office drama written all over it. A true heavyweight encounter awaits, and Richmond are determined to finish the job in style.

Join Us at Twickenham
This final promises to be a showcase of elite women's rugby, and Richmond Women invite every supporter, past and present, to be there. It’s FREE ENTRY for all, with a full day of rugby to enjoy – and Richmond headlining as the final game of the day at 5pm.
Wear your Richmond colours, and make some noise, let’s paint Twickenham in Richmond red, black and gold as we chase silverware under the lights on May 18th.