Vipers Claim First Home Win in Historic Vale Centre Debut

Match Snapshot

Opening Overview

A bright, sunny day on the banks of the River Foyle set the scene for a landmark moment in Northwest Vipers history, as the Women’s Flag team hosted their first ever fixture at The Vale Centre. With the pitch freshly cut and the home crowd getting behind the team from the first snap, this wasn’t just another Claddagh Bowl game — it was a chance to set a standard for what Vipers football at home should look like. The result matched the occasion: a gritty 13-12 win over the Belfast Knights, sealed by a late defensive stand and a clutch pass breakup on the final extra-point attempt.

First Half Summary

The game started at a high tempo, and it was the Knights who struck first, taking an early 6-0 lead. The Vipers responded well, settling quickly and answering with a passing touchdown from Cara Phillips to Rachel McDaid to level the score at 6-6, though the extra point attempt didn’t convert.

From there, the Vipers began to build momentum on both sides of the ball. The offense found a better rhythm and, just before halftime, Phillips connected with McDaid again — this time finding her at the back of the end zone for the second score of the day. Under heavy blitz pressure on the conversion, Phillips got the ball up and out on a high pass that was reeled in by Tia Sadlon for the extra point, giving the Vipers a 13-6 lead going into the break.

Second Half Summary

The second half became a test of discipline and game management. With a one-score lead, the focus shifted to staying composed, protecting field position, and making the Knights work for every yard. The Vipers defence dug in, holding firm through sustained pressure and keeping the Knights’ offence from finding easy scores.

Late in the game, the Knights managed to pull within one score, bringing the game to 13-12 and setting up a decisive extra-point attempt that would have tied it. In the biggest moment of the day, the Vipers defence delivered. Rachel McDaid came up with a crucial pass breakup on the conversion attempt, shutting the door and securing a historic first home win at The Vale.

Key Performers

Rachel McDaid was named overall MVP for the Gameday. Tia Sadlon was named Offensive MVP. Amy Gorham was named Defensive MVP.

Closing & Next Fixture

This was a milestone day for the Northwest Vipers Women’s team: first time hosting at The Vale Centre, and the first home win to go with it. It wasn’t perfect, but it was resilient — and it showed the group can protect a lead and finish games under pressure. With momentum building in Week 2, the Vipers now turn their attention to the next Claddagh Bowl matchup, looking to carry the same energy and composure into Game 2 against the North Down Dragons as the season continues.