Cambridge University Rugby Blues were defeated in both the men’s and women’s Varsity Matches against Oxford at StoneX Stadium in London this weekend, as the annual contest once again showcased the intensity, tradition and sporting spirit that define this historic rivalry.

The Cambridge women entered the fixture determined to respond to last year’s 27–7 defeat, but faced a powerful Oxford side who ran in eight tries to secure a 52–8 victory. It was a difficult afternoon for the Light Blues, marking their largest margin of defeat in 26 years.

Despite the scoreline, there were moments of resilience and quality. In the 56th minute, Esther Makourin collected the ball inside her own half and showed impressive pace and determination to evade several tacklers before finishing in the corner. Charlotte Cooper added a penalty to complete Cambridge’s scoring.

While the result was disappointing, the team could walk off the pitch proud of their commitment, resolve and fighting spirit throughout.

The men’s fixture proved a more closely fought contest, particularly in the first half. Cambridge, who had won the previous three meetings, were looking to continue their run of success.

James Wyse crossed the line for a crucial try, with Ollie East adding the conversion and a penalty to keep Cambridge firmly in contention at half-time, trailing 15–10. Early in the second half, Patrick Shrimpton went over for Cambridge as the sides traded tries.

Oxford ultimately seized control in the latter stages, adding three tries to extend their advantage. East slotted a further penalty for Cambridge before Alex Nimmo crossed for a late try, but the Dark Blues secured a 37–25 victory.

It marked the first time since 2014 that Oxford had claimed both the men’s and women’s Varsity fixtures in the same year.

While the trophies will reside in Oxford this year, the Varsity Matches once again demonstrated the very best of university sport: commitment, camaraderie and respect between fierce rivals.

We look forward to the challenge ahead for our CURUFC teams and to our Light Blues bringing the trophies back to Cambridge next year.

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source: www.cam.ac.uk