In the opening fixture of the day, Alana scored a vital try in the all-Scottish clash against Scáthach, helping secure a 36–22 win for the Selkies. Her try came from a bold move she had never attempted in a match before.
“It was the first time I tried an 8 pick-and-go in a 15s game – and it worked!” she said.
Building on that momentum, the Selkies went on to defeat the Netherlands 26–20 – a significant result as it marked the first-ever victory for a Scottish U16 girls’ side against international opposition. With the U16 programme now in its third year, and this being only the second time Scotland has faced the Dutch at this level, the result represents a landmark moment for the national pathway.
Reflecting on her progress, Alana said, “Since last summer’s series, the October and December camps, and the Regional Games, I’ve been able to develop so much as a player.”
The match against the Netherlands demanded adaptability and teamwork from the squad.
“We knew they had great support, so a lot of the time we were targeting the ball and getting in quickly,” Alana explained. “There were a few times we slipped up, but our captain kept us encouraged and focused.”
Looking ahead, Alana is excited about what’s to come, “I’m only 15, so I hope I get the chance to stay in the age group a bit longer. I’m excited to see what I can develop next.”
She also credits her training with Strathallan’s Rugby Academy for strengthening both her technical skills and physical game.
“I was able to apply the rifle passes Mr Henderson taught me at the Rugby Academy in my games and all the squats I’ve done in the gym with our Head of Athletic Development, Mr Webb, have really helped my scrum form – I could see the improvements in my review videos.”
