Title win a surprise, say Bulls

Aylesford ladies have won the Women’s Premiership after a remarkable turnaround. Bulls had finished bottom three years running before relocating to Surrey to join forces with Harlequins last summer. Their aim this season was to stay out of the bottom two but they’ve ended up winning the league – beating Bristol 17-8 in the final at Sixfields last weekend. Michela Sillari scored twice, with Hannah Field also crossing the line. Victory completed the double having already won the Women’s Cup. Coach Gary Street said: “At the start of the season we said we wanted to finish out of the bottom two and maybe get into the semi-finals of the cup. “The players have been outstanding and we probably underestimated the strength of the group and the leaders in it. “It’s been a hell of a ride but I’m thrilled that we’ve won the double.” Captain Rachael Burford said: “This means everything to everyone, not just all the players but all of the staff involved with Aylesford Bulls. “It’s down to us as the players to repay everyone and make sure we come away with these wins. “It’s a credit to everyone at this club for all the hard work on and off the pitch.”