Women's Match Report: Cardiff Demons

Sophie Messem

London Broncos 26 - 14 Cardiff Demons

Broncos Start Campaign Strong with Victory Over Cardiff Demons


London’s efficiency and determined defence in key moments outweighed Cardiff’s second-half fightback in a Round 1 victory at Home for the Broncos.


London Broncos Women opened their Women’s National Championship campaign with a deserved 26–14 victory over Cardiff Demons at the Hazelwood Centre, combining clinical finishing with resilient defence. A dominant first half saw the Broncos lead 14–0 at the break through tries from Treco, Hughes and Kennedy, before Cardiff closed the gap to 14–8 early in the second half. London responded with further scores from Kennedy and McCusker to extend their lead to 26–8, and despite a late Cardiff try, the Broncos’ defence held firm to secure the win.


The performance showcased a promising blend of returning experience and new faces, with a squad rich in international pedigree. With several players still to feature, including 2026 Gladiators Champion Emily Bell, there are clear signs of depth for the season ahead.


Played in difficult conditions, with strong winds and intermittent showers, both sides still produced moments of real quality. The fixture also marked the Broncos’ first outing at their new home, where a well-prepared pitch and modern facilities were enjoyed by supporters, offering plenty of promise for a strong atmosphere in the summer months.


On the sidelines, new assistant coach Matt Bayliss, Head Coach of the Royal Navy Rugby League Women's Team, joined Head Coach Colin Baker. Several Royal Navy players featured in the Broncos line-up, highlighting a growing and productive relationship within the women’s game.


The hosts started brightly and opened the scoring when Treco powered over under the posts, with Salter converting for an early 6–0 lead. London continued to press and, after sustained pressure, Hughes crossed following a strong run involving debutante Redfern, though the conversion was missed. The Broncos’ defensive line then proved crucial, repeatedly denying Cardiff with strong goal-line stands before Kennedy broke through just before half-time to extend the lead to 14–0.


Cardiff responded with intent after the break, exploiting space to score two quick tries and reduce the deficit to 14–8. However, London answered decisively, as Mullen’s clever kick was gathered superbly by Kennedy for her second try, before McCusker stretched over to cap another attacking spell, with Salter converting both to make it 26–8. Cardiff added a late converted try, but the Broncos remained in control, with key defensive interventions, including a try-saving tackle from Titcombe and another from Salter, ensuring the visitors could not mount a comeback. A late yellow card further dented Cardiff’s efforts.


Overall, London’s blend of attacking sharpness and defensive resilience proved decisive, with Tamsin Barber’s outstanding all-round display earning Player of the Match honours.


Match Stats Summary


Final Score: London Broncos 26–14 Cardiff Demons
Half-Time: London Broncos 14–0 Cardiff Demons


Tries Scored

  • London Broncos: 5 (Treco, Hughes, Kennedy x2, McCusker)
  • Cardiff Demons: 3

Conversions

  • London Broncos: 3/5 (Salter)
  • Cardiff Demons: 1/3


Discipline

  • Cardiff Demons: 1 yellow card (high tackle)
  • London Broncos: 0 cards


Player of the Match

  • Tamsin Barber (London Broncos)


Photos by Paul Cowan MediaPac Sports

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