THE Lionesses at Westcliff Rugby Club are roaring with delight after success both on and off the pitch.

The ladies team carried on their fine season with a 36-12 victory at Pulborough to stay top of the table.

And captain Kay Edwards was then further boosted by the club’s RFU ‘Inner Warrior’ event which saw 19 new ladies turning up to take part.

“With so many ladies coming to the event it shows rugby really is the new fitness sport that includes every lady,” said Edwards.

“It is great to see so many ladies come and try our sport.

“This team is a family and we always have room for new members.

“It was a pleasure to show these ladies a taster and we look forward to seeing them all at training in the future.

“There’s some ladies that showed great potential, strength and ability and it was a great advert for the sport.”

All of the ladies in attendance took part in a training session which saw them experience all aspects of the sport.

Back in the clubhouse, everyone then sat down for beers and bagels, which were supplied by the Market Place Bagel Bar in Southend.

And manager Julia Cripps has also been delighted by the growth of the club.

“I was so happy to see so many ladies and it just goes to show how inclusive this sport is,” said Cripps.

“I even gave it a go myself and I loved it.

“A massive well done must go to the coaches for managing over 40 ladies at the training session.

“All the ladies had a great evening and we can’t wait for them to train with us and join our pride.”

The Lionesses are currently top of the table by two points and continued their fine season with a hard-fought 36-12 win at Pullborough.

And Lionesses star Charlotte Grant felt the victory showed the progress being made.

“I think the game just showed that all the hours of training have really been worth it and it’s amazing to see how far we’ve come,” said Grant.

“I almost don’t recognise the team we were at the beginning of the season and our development is really a testament to the team and the coach’s dedication and hard work.

“I’m looking forward to seeing where else the season takes us. It’s exciting.”

The Lionesses hold training sessions every Monday and Thursday, at Westcliff Rugby Club, between 7pm and 8.30pm.

Any budding female players are welcome to attend and join in