May the best team win!

Friday 01 November 2019

24 hours before lining up together for their first home game of the season, Guernsey Raiders Ladies Team's half-back pairing will be cheering on rival sides as England take on South Africa in the Men's Rugby World Cup final.

The six-week competition will come to a head tomorrow morning at 09:00 when 2003 winners England renew their rivalry with South Africa, who beat them to the Webb Ellis trophy four years later.

And there is a friendly rivalry in the Raiders' dressing room, with South African fly-half Justeen Baker and England supporting scrum-half Aimee Le Bachelet set to line up together the next day no matter the result.

Celebrations or commiserations will be kept in check until after the Raiders' important home fixture against Canterbury Ladies. 

"On Sunday I'll probably be celebrating or crying into a pint," said Justeen, who will watch the RWC final with her partner Steve, who will be supporting England.  

"We are the strongest team," she said of the Springboks' chances. "Tactically we are a little more physical than England, and we will bring it for the World Cup final."

Pictured: The Raiders team will be playing against Canterbury on Sunday at Footes Lane. 

"I think it is going to be an incredible game because either team can take it - it is about who has the best mindset on the day and who makes the best decisions."

Like Justeen, Aimee thinks the game could be one for the ages, with both nations closely matched.

"England have got a really good team at the moment, we have got a very physical team and a bit more experience," she said. "They have all the standout players but they all mix well together."

Aimee will be watching it at home with her boyfriend and family, but anyone who wants to watch the game in public can do so at the Raiders Clubhouse at Footes Lane. 

The bar will be open from 08:30, with kick off at 09:00.

The Guernsey Raiders Ladies team's first home game of the season kicks off at 12:30 on Sunday at the Garenne Stand pitch, with free entry for anyone who wants to support the team in their bid to climb the table. 

Pictured top: Justeen Baker and Aimee Le Bachelet at training on Thursday evening.