Round 11 - 05.07.25

Women Deliver in Must win Clash

The Byron Shire Rebels Women’s team headed west to Kyogle for a season-defining showdown — and delivered a performance full of heart, grit, and flair.

With finals hopes hanging in the balance, the Rebels knew they had to lift. Emotions were already running high with three much-loved French players — Lilou Chaumard, Enya Bousseau, and Romane Combey — suiting up for their final match in Rebels colours before returning home for the French summer.

Kyogle came into the game just as desperate, knowing a win would keep their own finals dreams alive. But from the opening whistle, the Rebels looked a side on a mission.

It all clicked.

After weeks of hard work and growth, particularly from the team’s first-year players, everything came together. Dominance at the breakdown laid the foundation for the Rebels to control possession and dictate the pace.

Faith Taylor lit up the game with two trademark tries, her acceleration cutting straight through the defence. Shyanne Appleby, as ever, led from the front with a double of her own — one coming from a clever blindside move by Evie Eastwell that caught Kyogle napping.

Marsanne Chabert marked her return in vintage fashion, muscling over the line for a classic Rebels try. Indigo Simpson dazzled the crowd, slicing through defenders with footwork and power to round out the try tally.

Kari Massey coolly slotted a conversion to push the margin even further.

Final Score: Rebels 32 – Kyogle 12.

A huge win. A statement to the competition. And a perfect farewell for Romane, Enya, and Lilou — three players who’ve given their all on the field and brought so much joy off it.

Merci, mesdames. You’ll always be Rebels.

Written by Matt Ivers