Galway Tribeswomen made history competing in the inaugural All Ireland Women's Rugby League final, but found it a difficult arena against a well-organised Dublin City Exiles at Malahide Rugby Club.
The more experienced Exiles finished 44-0 winners to take the trophy, but the Tribeswomen gained valuable experience from their first campaign which was hit by the inability of opposition clubs to field during the season.
The Exiles registered their first score after five minutes when No 7 Alex McGuinness crossed the line, and they began to dominate possession, orchestrated by halfbacks Syphonia Pua and Alex McGuinness.
After experienced centre Stephanie Carroll made a break to score another try, the Tribeswomen tried to establish a foothold with strong running from Louise Kelly and Stacey Hanley, but the Dublin defence was too strong.
Galway's cause was not helped when they lost influential standoff Ella Synott with a serious leg break as the Exiles carried on from where they left off with Carroll adding her second try.
The Exiles continued to dominate this period of play while the Tribeswomen tackled tirelessly, but eventually the pressure saw them take a 34-0 lead at half time.
The Galway women looked more energized in the second half, and led by captain Celia Killalea, they began to question the Dublin defence. Repeat sets organised by No 9 Amanda Forde, close to the Dublin goal line had the Exiles on the back foot, and although the Tribeswomen were close to scoring on several attempts, the Dublin defence held strong and went on to add to their score.
