Women Reggae Warriors Make History with 20–6 Victory Over Greece

CHANIA, Crete — Jamaica’s Women Reggae Warriors have celebrated a historic milestone on the international stage, defeating Greece 20–6 at the Elena Venizelou Stadium in Chania, Crete, in a landmark victory for women’s rugby league in Jamaica.

The impressive performance capped a determined effort from the Reggae Warriors, whose defensive resilience and clinical finishing proved decisive against a Greek side that dominated possession during the opening half.

The victory represents a significant achievement for Rugby League Jamaica (RLJ) and its continued efforts to develop women’s rugby league and establish Jamaica as a competitive force on the international stage.

Despite sustained pressure from Greece in the first half, Jamaica defended resolutely to keep the hosts scoreless, with both teams heading into the break locked at 0–0.

The Reggae Warriors returned from the interval with renewed purpose, and loose forward Hannah McPherson broke the deadlock in the 44th minute, powering over from close range to give Jamaica the lead.

London Broncos player Emily Bell extended Jamaica’s advantage just before the hour mark, finishing a well-executed attacking move as the visitors spread the ball wide. Veronica Blair added the conversion before kicking a penalty goal to increase the lead to 14–0.

Bell then crossed for her second try of the match, burrowing over from dummy-half to strengthen Jamaica’s grip on the contest. Greece responded with five minutes remaining through Sophia Anagstopoulou, with Georgia Kalomenopoulou adding the conversion, but Jamaica remained composed to secure a memorable 20–6 triumph.

Lead Coach Darren Collins expressed immense pride in the team’s achievement, describing the victory as the culmination of the players’ hard work, commitment and belief in the programme.

“I’m incredibly proud of this group of players and what we’ve achieved together. This victory is the result of hard work, commitment and belief in what we are building as a team. We came to Greece with ambition, determination and a desire to make history, and the players delivered a performance that will be remembered for a long time,” Collins said.

Collins emphasized that the significance of the result extended well beyond the final score, highlighting the team’s responsibility to represent Jamaica with pride while inspiring future generations of female rugby league players.

“This is bigger than just a result. It’s about representing Jamaica with pride, growing women’s rugby league and showing what can be achieved when you believe in a shared vision. I’m proud of every player who put on that shirt and represented our country.

“This is an important step forward for Jamaica Women’s Rugby League, and I hope it inspires the next generation to be part of our journey,” he added.

Jamaica’s disciplined defensive performance was central to the victory, particularly during a first half in which Greece enjoyed significant possession but struggled to penetrate the Reggae Warriors’ defensive line. The Jamaicans’ ability to absorb pressure before capitalising on their attacking opportunities demonstrated the team’s growing maturity and cohesion.

Greece Head Coach Nick Stephanou praised his players’ determination despite the defeat, noting that his squad included 14 players from the local Greek competition.

“I’m very proud of my girls who never stopped trying, especially in defence,” Stephanou said.

For Jamaica, the 20–6 victory marks an important moment in the development of the Women Reggae Warriors. It reflects the dedication of the players and coaching staff, the progress made in building a unified squad, and the growing potential of Jamaica’s women’s rugby league programme.