Ealing Trailfinders are recruiting a Community Coach.
Ealing Trailfinders secured their place in the Premiership Cup semi-final after an emphatic 26-43 victory over Northampton Saints.
There were tries from Lefty Zigiriadis, George Davis, Reuben Bird-Tulloch, Angus Kernohan and a brace from Tom Collins on his return to Franklin’s Gardens.
It was a dream start to the knockout stages for Ealing Trailfinders, Zigiriadis powered his way over the line inside the opening two minutes.
Just moments later, Tobi Wilson found himself in space on the right-wing and burst down the line. He popped the ball inside to Collins who scored.
However, the visitors’ lead did not last long. Tries from George Hendy and James Ramm put Saints into the lead.
Trailfinders edged back in front with a Dan Jones penalty, before some free-flowing rugby from the hosts meant Ramm had a brace.
Ben Ward’s men regrouped and had an excellent end to the first half. Patient play camped on the Northampton try line eventually paid off when Davis forced his way over the line with a pick-and-go effort.
A scrum on the halfway line allowed Trailfinders to run a training ground move. Craig Hampson looped around and put Bird-Tulloch through a gap for a clear run to the line.
Half-time: Northampton Saints 19-29 Ealing Trailfinders
After the break, Northampton’s Iakopo Mapu saw red inside the opening seconds for a high shot on Trailfinders captain Mike Willemse.
The Championship side did not take long to capitalise, Wilson was at it again with another line break and Collins found himself on the end of it for his second of the afternoon.
Kernohan was next to get himself in on the action. The winger found space on the edge and scored in the corner, putting Trailfinders in a commanding lead with half an hour to play.
Trailfinders controlled the game well for the remainder, although Northampton’s Ramm completed his hat-trick with five minutes to go.
Victory for Ealing Trailfinders means they set up a semi-final against Exeter Chiefs next week.
Full-time: Northampton Saints 26-43 Ealing Trailfinders
Northampton Saints:
Tries- George Hendy 10, James Ramm 13 27 74
Conversions- Rory Hutchinson 11 14 75
Red cards- Iakopo Mapu 41
Ealing Trailfinders:
Tries- Lefty Zigiriadis 2, Tom Collins 4 42, George Davis 30, Angus Kernohan 49
Conversions- Tobi Wilson 3, Dan Jones 31 43 50
Penalties- Dan Jones 25
Yellow cards- Reuben Bird-Tulloch 13
Trailfinders Women can confirm that Rowena Burnfield will retire from rugby at the end of the season. Her decision marks the conclusion of a remarkable career that has spanned over a decade and seen her become one of the most respected players in women’s rugby.
Burnfield’s rugby journey has taken her to some of the top clubs in the country, with her career beginning at Andover RFC, followed by stints at Richmond, Harlequins and Wasps before finishing her playing days at Trailfinders Women. Her time at Wasps was particularly memorable, as she was a key figure in their run to the Allianz Premier 15s playoffs. However, it wasn’t just her domestic success that set Burnfield apart—it was her international achievements that truly solidified her place in Red Roses history.
A stalwart of the England Rugby team, Burnfield earned 50 caps throughout her career, showcasing her incredible skill and resilience on the international stage. Tall and strong, she excelled in the lineout, an area where her presence was invaluable. Her prowess in the lineout was complemented by her exceptional scrummaging ability, where her power and technique helped solidify England’s forward dominance. Whether in tight, forward-driven play or in more open-field moments, Burnfield’s presence was felt, as she contributed in every facet of the game.
Burnfield’s final stop in her illustrious career brought her to Trailfinders Women, where she has played the last two seasons. As one of the team’s key members, she brought invaluable experience and leadership, playing an integral role in shaping the squad. Loved by teammates and supporters, Burnfield’s influence was felt both on and off the pitch. Her time at Trailfinders was a fitting end to a distinguished career, as she helped lay the groundwork for the club’s future success.
Reflecting on her career and time at Trailfinders Women, Rowena said “From Andover to Trailfinders, and every team in between, I’ve been fortunate to play with and against some of the best players in the world.
“I want to thank my teammates, coaches, and the fans who’ve supported me through every step of my rugby journey. I couldn’t have asked for a better way to finish my career than with Trailfinders Women, and I’m proud to have been part of this special group.”
Head Coach Barney Maddison added “Ro has been nothing short of incredible for us here at Trailfinders, and throughout her career. Her experience, leadership, and passion have made a huge impact, both on and off the field.
“It’s been an absolute pleasure to have her as part of the squad. She’s been here since the start and helped shaped this team into what it is today, we’re proud to be apart of her journey. Rowena will always have a place in the Trailfinders family.”
Burnfield’s final appearance will be at Franklin’s Gardens in Trailfinders Women’s clash with Loughborough Lightning on Friday.
Trailfinders Women name their lineup as they travel to Franklin’s Gardens to play Loughborough Lightning in their final PWR match of the season.
Head Coach Barney Maddison makes five changes to the starting XV that played Leicester Tigers at Trailfinders Sports Club last weekend.
Alivia Leatherman and Rori Wood retain their places, Paige Stathopoulos joins them in the front-row.
Shya Pinnock starts alongside Tyson Beukeboom in the engine room.
Grace Moore moves into the back-row, with Rowena Burnfield starting at blindside flanker, and Captain Kate Zackary at number eight.
Caity Mattinson moves from the bench to start at scrum-half and Julia Schell keeps her place at fly-half.
The centre partnership remains unchanged with Lisa Thomson and Jess Cooksey.
It’s all change on the wings with Grace White and Rosie Inman coming into the side, Chloe Rollie completes the starting lineup.
Shannon Ikahihifo is among the replacements and in line for her first PWR appearance of the season.
Trailfinders Women to face Loughborough Lightning:
15. Chloe Rollie
14. Rosie Inman
13. Jess Cooksey
12. Lisa Thomson
11. Grace White
10. Julia Schell
9. Caity Mattinson
1. Alivia Leatherman
2. Paige Stathopoulos
3. Rori Wood
4. Tyson Beukeboom
5. Shya Pinnock
6. Rowena Burnfield
7. Grace Moore
8. Kate Zackary (c)
16. Kat Evans
17. Kie Tamai
18. Cassandra Tuffnail
19. Shannon Ikahihifo
20. Sara Seye
21. Ella Amory
22. Liz Musgrove
23. Vicky Laflin
Ealing Trailfinders are thrilled to announce a landmark partnership with Motion Fitness Education, one of the UK’s leading fitness education providers.
This collaboration will provide players with exclusive access to high-quality qualifications, supporting their careers both during and beyond their playing days.
As a trusted training provider and CIMSPA Enhancing Status Education Partner, Motion Fitness Education offers fully accredited qualifications through Active IQ and Focus Awards. Available courses include Personal Training, Strength & Conditioning, Sports Massage Therapy, and Nutrition, equipping players with valuable skills to build careers in Fitness, Health, and Wellness.
Through this partnership, players will be take advantage of exclusive discounted rates on Motion Fitness Education’s courses. Motion Fitness Education is also providing three course places free of charge to Trailfinders Women as part of their commitment to supporting female athletes.
These courses are designed to fit around players’ busy schedules, helping them develop professionally while pursuing their rugby careers.
Chris, Co-founder of Motion Fitness Education, said:“We’re delighted to be partnering with Trailfinders Women RFC and Ealing Trailfinders RFC. This partnership is about more than just education; it’s about giving players the tools to succeed off the pitch, whether that’s alongside their playing careers or as part of their transition to life after rugby. We’re excited to support them every step of the way.”
This partnership is just the beginning, with plans to introduce further opportunities and courses in the future.
For more information, please contact Chris Chester on chris@motionfitnesseducation.com
About Motion Fitness Education:
Motion Fitness Education is one of the UK’s top training providers, offering fully regulated qualifications and CPD courses in fitness, health, and wellness. With a passion for delivering high-quality education, the organisation is trusted by leading institutions and is dedicated to helping individuals achieve their career aspirations.
Ealing Trailfinders can confirm that Scott Buckley has joined the club on loan from Munster until the end of the season.
Following the mid-season departure of Henry Walker to Northampton Saints, Buckley has joined up with the squad and has been training over the past couple of weeks.
Buckley has made 27 appearances for Munster, having come through their youth system and represented Ireland at U18 and U19 levels.
The hooker had a stellar debut for the province, where he scored a try and won Player of the Match in Munster’s 35-17 away win at Wasps in the 2021 Champions Cup.
Joining Trailfinders, Buckley said: “I’m very grateful for the opportunity to join Ealing Trailfinders until the end of the season. The coaches and players have all been very welcoming and made the transition easy for me, it’s a top-class setup with great people. It’s a great opportunity for me personally, and I’m really excited to get stuck in to this new challenge.”
Director of Rugby Ben Ward said: “Scott will add some important depth, and we were pleased to add a player of his quality to our front row. He has made a good impression in training, and we are looking forward to seeing him make an impact on matchday.”
Ealing Trailfinders are recruiting an Athletic Performance Coach – Men’s First Team Rehab.
Click here to find out more and how to apply.
Click here to find out more and how to apply.
See Premiership stars in action as Ealing Trailfinders take on Harlequins in Round Five of the Premiership Cup
The Premiership Cup returns to Trailfinders Sports Club on Saturday 8th February, kick-off 3pm.
Ealing Trailfinders are thrilled to announce that High Wycombe RUFC will be the first Community Partner Club Programme member.
The initiative means High Wycombe RUFC will receive support in their community programme, coaching visits, rugby camps and ticketing initiatives. Members of the club will be able to earn cash back on tickets to Ealing Trailfinders games, which the club can then use to reinvest.
High Wycombe RUFC has a thriving minis and youth membership. As a partner club, they will be able to reinvest the funds in growing the game at a youth level, which is something that Ealing Trailfinders is very passionate about.
We know the programme will help grow the community game by giving kids access to some of the best rugby in England and developing their training facilities.
Ian Isham, Head of the Community Department said: “We are delighted to partner with High Wycombe RUFC as part of our new partner club programme. These connections are a key element of our community initiatives, allowing us to highlight the fantastic work happening in grassroots rugby while providing support to help their continued growth.
“Every club has its unique strengths and challenges, and by collaborating closely, we can tailor our approach to create mutually beneficial opportunities. In working with Michael Fradgley, Mini & Junior Chairman at High Wycombe RUFC and learning about his dedication to the club, it’s evident that the club is proactive in its development.
“If we can contribute in any way to their progress, it’s something we take great pride in. We look forward to a successful partnership with High Wycombe RUFC this season and into the future.”
Michael Fradgley, Mini & Junior Chairman of High Wycombe RFC said: “I’m delighted that our club is going to be building a partnership with Ealing Trailfinders. Ealing Trailfinders continue to be on an exciting journey and for us to be aligned to this brings many benefits to our club and our young players.
“In particular I’m excited by the opportunities to improve coach education and to further enhance our school holiday camps with input from Ealing players and coaches. I already know that our players and parents will love the opportunity to “take over” on one of your match days, see high quality rugby in action and build memories as they take part in the match day activities.
I look forward to seeing what this fabulous opportunity brings and to developing the relationship as we continue to grow the minis and juniors section at HWRUFC.”
As part of our partnership, we are pleased to announce that Ealing Trailfinders Community Team will be running a camp at High Wycombe RFC during the February half-term. The camp will take place on Wednesday 19th and Thursday 20th February, catering to U7–U12 players, with specialised masterclass sessions in the afternoons. The masterclass on Wednesday will be for U13–U16 boys, and on Thursday, we will host a session for U12–U16 girls. For more information visit www.ealingtrailfinders.org.uk/camps
To find out more or to get in touch about our partner community club programme visit www.ealingtrailfinders.org.uk/partner-clubs
Premiership Women’s Rugby can confirm that the 2025-26 league season will start on the weekend of 25-26 October four weeks after the Rugby World Cup Final is played before a world-record crowd at Twickenham.
The PWR Final will take place on the weekend of Saturday 27-28 June 2026, after 18 rounds of competitive action, and two semi-finals.
We can also confirm that there will be PWR action during the Rugby World Cup with the return of the PWR Cup. The Cup was won last April by Saracens on an unforgettable occasion against Bristol Bears and this year we will see games held across the country to help build the legacy of the World Cup and give fans club rugby to attend between international matches.
* PWR Cup kick off – mid-August
* PWR Cup Final – Weekend of 11-12 October
* PWR league kick off – Saturday 25 October
* PWR league semi-finals – 13-14 June 2026
* PWR Final – Weekend of 27-28 June 2026
Amy Walmsley, PWR’s League Operations Manager: “We know that the Rugby World Cup is a generational moment for women’s rugby and will create a huge opportunity for both PWR and our clubs to grow and celebrate with their fans.
“We need the most effective season structure to do that, with the optimum time between the Rugby World Cup Final and our first league match to ensure we capitalise on what we already know will be the biggest and best World Cup ever, whilst also ensuring player welfare with adequate rest across the season.”