Celtic Challenge: Wolfhounds secure big win over Brython Thunder

Reigning champions Wolfhounds produced a strong display in their Celtic challenge to secure an easy 69-0 win over Brython Thunder at the Avidia Stadium.

The home side scored six tries in the first half to take a comfortable lead in Belfast and seal the bonus point.

Neil Alcorn’s side added five more tries in the second half to pass the half-century mark.

The win was the Wolfhounds’ fourth successive win in the competition and lifted them to the top of the standings.

Niamh Marley got the Wolfhounds’ first try on seven minutes, blocking two defenders for a touchdown.

A penalty try was then awarded before Vicky Elmes-Kinlan stepped up to add the third goal.

The bonus point was secured for the hosts in the 30th minute when Robin O’Connor received the ball from the right and raced home.

Linda Djogang then crossed for Elmis Quinlan to get her second goal to complete a dominant first-half display.

The Wolfhounds picked up where they left off in the second half as Stacey Flood collected a high ball from Dannah O’Brien to score a seventh try.

O’Connor finished off a brilliant break from Aibhin Reilly for the second time with substitute Meabh Clenaghan and then scored the ninth try with a quick kick.

They hit double figures in tries in the 72nd minute as Jade Gaffney finished off a sweeping move before Naoise Smyth added another late on.