Defending champions Dundee Valkyries have got their Arnold Clark Caledonia Midlands East One rugby campaign off to the perfect start with a bonus-point win.

On Sunday they travelled to Grangemouth for their opening fixture of 2024-25 and returned to Mayfield with a 28-10 victory under their belts.

Jess Larkum’s try, converted by Emma Mackinnon, saw Dundee lead 7-5 at the interval and second-half tries from Natalie Cardosi (2) and Rachel Crawford, all converted, saw them home.

Valkyries skipper Steph Craig said: “Grangemouth really came out strong and it took us some time to switch on and get into a rhythm as a team.

“However, I can’t fault the team’s efforts in the second half. We showed great resilience and there were some excellent defensive plays.

“We stuck together and worked hard, ultimately securing the bonus-point win.

“Special recognition goes to the players of the match.

“Megan McCarry was outstanding as the forward of the match, excelling in defence and winning multiple turnovers in the rucks. Emma Mackinnon was not only our back of the match, but also the opposition’s player of the match.

“She controlled the backs brilliantly, creating numerous attacking opportunities. Both of them were phenomenal.”