RWB NOMADS 1st XI capped off a superb campaign in dramatic fashion as they lifted the Upton Trophy following an unforgettable victory over Channel Islands rivals Guernsey Cubs at Footes Lane on Saturday.
Guernsey Cubs 3 – 3 RWB Nomads
Scorers: Chrissie Helmholt-Kneisel x2, Izzy Heelis
RWB Nomads won on second sudden-death penalty shuffle
In a final packed with twists and turns, the sides could not be separated after regular time finished 3-3, forcing the contest into penalty shuffles. Even then there was nothing between the teams, with two rounds of sudden death required before the Jersey side finally emerged victorious in front of a stunned Guernsey crowd.
Izzy Heelis and Chrissie Helmholt-Kneisel, who struck twice, were on target for Nomads in regulation time as the teams traded blows throughout an enthralling encounter.
Having dominated the Ladies 1st Division this season, RWB Nomads arrived in Guernsey full of confidence after recording ten wins and just one defeat from their 12 league matches, finishing 15 points clear of their nearest challengers.
That form looked set to continue as they produced another composed display, although Guernsey Cubs repeatedly battled back to ensure the final went the distance.
The drama reached its peak during the shuffles, with both sides holding their nerve through multiple rounds before Nomads sealed the decisive score in sudden death when Izzy Heelis scored the winning penalty shuffle, sparking jubilant celebrations.
It was a fitting way for RWB Nomads to conclude an outstanding season, adding cup success to an already dominant league campaign and underlining their status as the Island’s leading women’s side.
RWB Nomads 1st XI: Kelly Cutting (c), Gemma Appleton, Charlie Maltby, Isabella Frost, Kate Follain, Emily Genee, Amy Guthrie, Sarah Heelis, Izzy Heelis, Chrissie Helmholt-Kneisel, Becky Henwood-Darts, Harley Little, Helen Maletroit, Zoe Smart, Holly Stearn
