The commencement of the current PWR season might have appeared swift to some, following the conclusion of the Women’s Rugby World Cup, but the Bristol Bears, having been spectators in the initial round, are eager to participate.
Since the arrival of Scottish back-rower Evie Gallagher and her international colleague Lana Skeldon, after the dissolution of Worcester Warriors, the Bears achieved a spot in the finals in 2023/24 and reached the semi-finals in the previous season. Consequently, they are once again anticipated to vie for a position among the top four in the nine-team league this year.
Their inaugural match is away against Leicester Tigers this Sunday, and Gallagher, the 25-year-old who distinguished herself for Scotland as they progressed to the quarter-finals at the World Cup, is highly enthusiastic.
“Each year since I relocated to England to compete in 2022/23 with Worcester, the league has grown more competitive, and I believe this season will be even more challenging than before, particularly following the World Cup,” remarked the player, who boasts 40 international caps.
“Throughout the summer and leading up to the World Cup, the movement of international players between clubs and the entry of other internationals into the PWR was noticeable and stimulating.
Leicester Tigers Women
Bristol Bears Women
“I consciously sidelined it during the World Cup, concentrating on Scotland, but returning to Bears training a few weeks ago and reconnecting with the team after the PWR Cup campaign was exceptional.
“Observing the round one league matches of the other clubs was intriguing, allowing us to assess the current status of each team and how the revamped squads are integrating.
“It’s evident that the standard of this league is continually improving, and every match poses a challenge. Vigilance is essential, as any lapse in concentration will be punished.
“There will be numerous closely contested matches, which is precisely what I desire as a player and where I thrive.”
Regarding alterations at the Bears, there have been some.
Head coach Dave Ward, now with Ampthill men, departed during the summer and was succeeded by former Scotland men’s hooker Scott Lawson, while players like Courtney Keight and Holly Aitchison left to join Sale Sharks, and Ellie Marston-Mulhearn retired. Amber Reed also retired, but now serves as an assistant coach.
Scotland international Rhea Clarke and Welsh players Maisie Davies and Gwennan Hopkins have joined, and Gallagher humorously noted, “It’s fantastic to have Scott and Rhea here as it maintains the robust Scottish presence at the Bears!
“I’ve been aware of Scott for many years but haven’t collaborated closely with him before. It’s been valuable to adapt to his methods and expectations for the squad as we prepare for the Leicester match and beyond.
“We uphold high standards for ourselves, which will persist, and the new players have assimilated well. Hopefully, we will see Rhea playing for the Bears alongside her sister Elliann, which would be truly wonderful.”
Gallagher’s game has been constructed on exceptional defensive capabilities – exemplified by 72 tackles in just four World Cup matches and numerous turnovers during the event in August and September – but the player, who is likely to be considered for the inaugural British & Irish Lions women’s tour in 2027, has also dedicated effort to enhancing her attacking skills.
With two tries, 44 carries, and five offloads at the World Cup, the back row has a solid base to expand upon. “I’ve always enjoyed having the ball in hand, but perhaps my focus has been on defensive responsibilities. I aspire to become a more comprehensive player if possible.
“I relished carrying the ball frequently for Scotland in the World Cup, attempting to run effective lines and identify gaps in defenses, and I aim to advance that further with Bristol this season and contribute to putting us on the front foot.
“We prefer playing an offensive style of rugby, and I want to contribute to that, whether it involves gaining hard yards through the middle and around the rucks or creating space and opportunities for our faster players in the wider channels with carries and then offloads. I will continue to develop the attacking aspects of my game and support the team in any manner I can.”
