SARAWAK RUGBY INSPIRES WITH HISTORIC SEMIFINAL BERTH


The Sarawak women’s rugby team has carved its name in history by storming into the semifinals of the Selangor Rugby League, the first-ever achievement by a Sarawak women’s team, whether within the state or beyond its borders. In what has already been an inspiring journey, the young side claimed their spot with an emphatic 38-7 victory over KL Tigers, marking their second win in the competition.

Led by coaches Stephen Patrick and Shahradi Labiki, and guided by team manager Sylvia Alexander, the 28-strong squad has shown heart, resilience, and progress. From a rocky start, a 5-29 defeat to ATM Women and a 0-52 loss to Cobra Venom, they bounced back with conviction, including an earlier win against UPNM Barbarians.


The match against KL Tigers was especially historic. Valerie Juan, stepping up as playmaker, delivered a stunning performance and etched her name in Malaysian rugby history as the first Malaysian woman to score a drop goal in a 15s competitive match. She contributed eight crucial points that sealed a landmark victory for the team.

Ranked third among five teams, Sarawak’s semifinal qualification is more than just a result, it’s a statement. According to Sarawak Rugby Union Secretary Rashid Salleh, the progress seen in both players and officials is a huge leap for the state's rugby scene.


From underdogs to contenders, the Sarawak women’s team has already made history and they’re not done yet. This is just the beginning of something truly special.

THE MATCH

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