The U14 Spitfires have had a busy start to 2026 two games already under their belts in January.
First up after the Christmas break on the 11th of January, was a game away to New Milton, who are an emerging team similar to the Salisbury U14 squad. Although down on players due to injuries and illness the game was played in true rugby spirit, with New Milton able to lend 3 of their girls to take it to 12 a side and to make sure all the players could get the most from the opportunity.
In true British January weather style, just before KO the wind and rain came in making the game a cold and wet affair; however, the players were not put off and took to the pitch with enthusiasm and spirit whilst proving their resilience throughout the game.
There was good attacking play from the Spitfires with good running from Flick Smith, arching around the New Milton defence. With grit and determination, the Spitfire forwards showed their mettle with great ball carrying, giving the team a real drive forward and making good strides up the pitch.
The Spitfires took the win with a 7 – 49 score line, however the biggest win came from both clubs working together in the true sense of the rugby community to ensure that their respective girls sections grow for the future.

For our 2nd game of 2026 on the 18th of January (and only the 3rd match the girls had ever played together) we hosted our good long standing partners from Bath Girls at Hudsons field. This time our numbers improved with 11 Spitfires available to play, and with the weather warmer and drier than the previous week, Prairie pitch was the setting for some really brilliant rugby.
From the KO the ball ended up in Flick Smith’s hands, and in true Flick style, literally took it her stride and ran in the 1st try, this gave the team confidence, though with their growing skill levels, they didn’t need it.
With impressive team play and all the players interacting well, Flora Stewart was over the try line. With the Bath girls beginning to find their stride, they crossed over for their 1st try. As with the previous week the Spitfire forwards showed their prowess carrying the ball well and defending the rucks. This time Sophie Earley had the ball: saw the gap and through she went from the Bath 10m line straight under the posts scoring her 1st Spitfire try.
With the 3 smallest girls on the pitch Nell Cooke, Mabel Randall and Flora Stewart showed huge heart and stamina in their defensive efforts, keeping Bath from breaking the line. Especially when Salisbury were conceding penalties bringing Bath up to our try line.

From the 2nd half restart, this time into Sophie Earley’s hands making another one of her determined runs to be tackled, great supporting play from Flick Smith gained another try straight under the posts. With Bath having the downward slope they were able to cross the try line. With the game advancing some of our quieter girls grew even more in confidence, and when getting the ball in their hands making good strides up the pitch.
Next up is a visit to Lambridge training ground and a return game against Bath girls. Always an enjoyable experience and great hosts.
Hugh congratulations to coach Matt Aldridge for all the hard work this season in ensuring that the players have the opportunity to develop their rugby and team manager Martin Earley for ensuring that things run smoothly.
Two fantastic games from the U14 Spitfires whose determination and dedication to rugby shows all the signs of future success for the SRFC Girls Squad for many seasons to come.