WOMENS RUGBY: THE TWO south Essex players who helped England to their historic RBS Womens Six Nations win over Scotland at the weekend have revealed their excitement and pride at being part of the national team’s win. Thurrock T-Bird players Mercedes Foy and Rachael Burford were in the team which crushed Scotland 63-0.

Burford said: “We stepped up today, but still have plenty to work on. “All the players have put their hands up for selection. It’s now going to be a headache for the coaches,” she added.

Mercedes Foy – who is a PE teacher at William Edwards school in Grays – was delighted that she got the call-up to the England team following the side’s lacklustre display in the opening match of the tournament the weekend before. The front row player, who has been described as an inspirational leader by her colleagues at Thurrock’s T-Birds Oakfield ground said on twitter: “Luved every sec of 2day #Buzzing! “Winning 63-0 & playing with some amazing people. Thanks 4ur support.”

Foy spent much of the rest of the weekend thanking her Thurrock pals for their support. And the victory put a smile on the face of the England head coach Gary Street too.

He said: “I’m pleased with the win overall. Scotland is a difficult place to come to but some of our play today was fantastic including the play between our backs and forwards.

For the full story of T-Bird involvement in the weekend's international rugby see the THURROCK GAZETTE on Thursday