Following two exhilarating semi-final clashes, both of Loughborough University’s teams emerged victorious, earning themselves places in the National Championship Finals at Saracens’ StoneX Stadium on Wednesday 17 April 2024.
The first of two Loughborough semis belonged to the Women’s National League (WNL), with Loughborough Students journeying to the southwest to take on Exeter in a top-of-the-table clash.
In a fiercely contested match, both teams battled hard for victory, having exchanged wins during the season.
Loughborough surged to a 24-17 lead at half-time with three impressive tries, extending their advantage to nine points in the 62nd minute with a try from England Under-20s international, Lilli Ives Campion.
In an end-to-end contest, Loughborough emerged triumphant with a 38-34 win, securing their place in the Women's National League final, where they will face defending champions Hartpury.
The second semi-final saw Loughborough Rugby Men’s welcome Hartpury University. The match promised to be tightly contested between two teams separated by just two points in the league standings.
Hartpury dominated the first half, leading 11-3 at halftime. However, the African Violet staged a remarkable comeback in the second half, clinching a 37-26 victory as the final whistle blew.
Loughborough’s victory over Hartpury sets up a rematch against Exeter for a repeat of last year’s nail-biting BSR showdown.
Martin Webdale, Men’s Head Rugby Coach at Loughborough University, commented, “The BUCS Rugby Union National Championship Finals day at the StoneX Stadium certainly promises to be an exciting one for Loughborough University Rugby.
We are delighted that both the men’s and women’s teams have made their respective finals. The men’s team face Exeter University in a repeat of the 2023 final, dubbed one of the greatest games ever. I hope this year’s final is equally exciting and showcases the quality of student rugby.
We have developed as a squad throughout this season and feel we are carrying some real momentum into the final. Hopefully, we can turn the StoneX Stadium African Violet on Wednesday.”
In what promises to be an extraordinary day of rugby, we wish both Loughborough teams the best of luck.
Tickets are priced from £10 and can be purchased via the BUCS website. Additionally, both games will be available for live viewing on YouTube.