Masters rugby league sees first at Spotland

Maths teacher Dee Llwellyn is the first ever lady to join the Rochdale Masters

Hornets RL hosted the masters of Rochdale who all took part in a curtain raiser to the Hornets vs Blackpool Panthers match.

Mayfield masters took on the Swarm who are a combined team representing all other Rochdale rugby league clubs past and present.

As in usual masters tradition the match was strictly social with the score ending in a 0 - 0 draw and the emphasis of playing in the spirit of the game rather than proving a point or settling any scores.

Maths teacher Dee Llwellyn became the first ever lady to join the Masters, slotting in well with the Mayfield squad. Former 'Rochdale Ravens' player Ms Llwellyn wore the under represented gold shorts for the match meaning she could only touch in defence and be touched in attack. Ms Llwellyn settled into the match with ease scoring a well executed 2nd half try.

A spokesperson for the Hornets said: “It is hoped that this will see the start of ladies becoming more involved in Masters RL boosting numbers for teams in the area and also creating a pathway for retired ladies back into the sport.

“Hornets RL would like to thank The Co-operative for sponsoring the event with the provision of after match refreshments for the participants.”

If you would like to get involved with either of the Rochdale Masters teams, contact rugby league development officer Ryan Bradley on ryan.bradley@rfl.uk.com or 07807 510 350