27/10/2026
Milton Keynes v Brackley Phoenix – 25/10/26 Match Report
Brackley Phoenix travelled down the A5 to a blustery Milton Keynes.
Captain Bella du Plooy chose to play with the conditions. MK soon started to take control of the game, putting Brackley under lots of pressure, with most of the game played in the Brackley 22. No one can defend forever and, after 20 minutes, ex-Brackley girl, now living in MK, Ciara Northern broke the Brackley line, 5-0.
BP started to come alive, with FH Triggers’ exceptional kicking putting MK back in their 22. Continued pressure from BP saw Caitlin Philp snipe through to score, converted by Trigger. Half-time 5-7.
The second half saw MK come out with renewed passion. Playing downhill with the wind, they pinned Brackley back and scored three quick tries, none converted, 20-7.
Most teams might have folded then, but not this team. Like a Phoenix rising from the ashes, there was a new bite and self-belief about this squad. Playing to their strengths and getting the ball to the edges, flying winger Lily Smith scored out wide, 20-12.
Against the run of play, MK scored a breakaway try, 25-12.
23 minutes to play and the game’s physicality was immense, with both teams losing players. BP’s Jolene Docherty was trying to play on with a gash above her eye, and injured players were desperate to get back on the field. It was all Brackley now. The forward pack went phase after phase, showing great patience and ball retention. Eventually, the MK line was breached as powerful centre Eleanor Iles dotted down over the line. 25-17.
10 minutes on the clock and BP were in control, going phase after phase. MK were lucky not to receive a yellow after multiple penalties in their 22. Phoebe Kilmister was eventually rewarded for her constant desire to get on the ball and take the game to MK with a try. The conversion was missed and the final whistle blew. MK breathed a sigh of relief, winners 25-22.
Both teams deservedly celebrated. Brackley, two leagues below MK, have shown the level they can play at.
Special mention to Niamh (it looks like I have played forever) and Caitlin Philp, mother and daughter on the pitch together for the first time. Forward of the Match: Amelia Button, and Back of the Match: Caitlin Philp, in their first senior game. Players’ Player: Kasey Wright, putting in an unbelievable shift in attack and defence.
Head Coach Neil Taylor said afterwards, “They all deserve a mention. They should all be so proud of themselves. The heart, care and determination that was shown today on that pitch was of the highest standard. Thank you to the four girls from Hitchin who came and helped, giving us a squad of 23, which you need on a day like today.”
No game for the Phoenixes for a couple of weeks. Time to rest some battered bodies and prepare for our next Inner Warrior game.
