UKAF wrap up third place with thumping win over Irish Defence Forces at Kingsholm Stadium

The UK Armed Forces have finished third at the 2025 International Defence Rugby Competition after a resounding 76-5 win over the Irish Defence Forces at Kingsholm Stadium.

The RAF's Daisy Fahey is usually known for her kicking ability, but it was her hat-trick of tries that was the highlight for the hosts.

Lou Langton, on her last-ever appearance for UKAF, also scored and was celebrated by her teammates.

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Sarah Mitchelson's team were disappointed on Saturday in a semi-final loss to France but showed resolve to put on a show in Gloucester.

Daisy Aspinall helped them to a perfect start with two tries in the first 10 minutes before Heidi Silcox crossed the line for her second try of the tournament.

Fahey's first of the game was followed by a superb carry and finish for Harlequins star Orla Proctor to give UKAF a 29-point lead.

The first half battering continued with Sophie Benavent and Fahey's second of the game as UKAF went into half-time with a 43-0 lead.

In the pool stages, UKAF beat the Irish by 65 points and looked in scoring mood again as the Welsh rugby league captain, Bethan Dainton, was next to cross the try line.

Ahead of the tournament, RAF star Langton confirmed she would be hanging up her UKAF boots after this game, and it was a celebratory moment for her and the UKAF team when she scored a try of her own.

Kim Grundy and Laika Swain also added their names to the scoreboard, but it was the hat-trick try from Fahey that will have surprised many, as she showed her skills on the wing shouldn't be underestimated.

The only downfall for UKAF was the lack of a shutout. Laura Biasiotto was brave in charging down a kick, and she scored a try to make it a 76-5 final score.