Appleby adds four new faces

By Mark Stevens
17/8/21

Exeter Chiefs Women’s head coach, Susie Appleby, has today bolstered her options ahead of the new Allianz Premier 15s season with four new signings.

Having already tied down the futures of many of last season’s squad, Appleby has now switched her attentions to that of new additions, where she has moved swiftly to bolster her ranks.

Heading to Sandy Park is hooker Clara Nielson, together with scrum-half Brooke Bradley (Worcester Warriors), full-back/wing Olivia Jones and centre Kanako Kobayashi (Japan Sports University).

The quartet’s arrival is a huge boost to Appleby, who is readying her side for Saturday’s pre-season friendly against Wasps Women at Sandy Park (2pm).

“Obviously, we’ve done a huge amount of work in tying down players from last season’s squad, but we felt it was just as important to add some real quality and experience as well,” explained Appleby.

“The four girls we’ve brought in, I know, will really add to our group and help take us to that next level. They are all experienced, talented and great people, which is great!

“I’ll be honest, I don’t know a huge amount about Kanako, but all the reports we’ve had on her and having spoken to the coaches over in Japan, she comes very highly recommended. She’s young, she’s strong, she’s quick and she can kick off both feet

“We feel she will really add something, especially in the lead up to a World Cup, and with Sachi already here, she’s got a friendly face who can really help her settle in.”

Joining Kobayashi at the Chiefs are three players who are already well equipped to life in English women’s rugby’s top flight.

“Clara is vastly experienced at this level,” added Appleby. “She has been at Bristol a long time, captain for a number of years, but now she’s coming home. She’s Devon born and bred, she went to the Uni here in Exeter and was part of the team that won everything under Jo Yapp.

“She’s a natural leader, reads the game very well and her work around the field and set-piece is outstanding. She’s also an international and she’s someone we feel will really add to our pack.

“As for Brooke, she’s someone I liken to Jack Maunder in the men’s team. She’s quick-thinking, spots the gaps and goes for them, and we’ve seen her grow in confidence. Again, she’s another one who is coming home to Devon and has experience of the league.

“Finally, Liv initially started out as a seven, but has switched to the back three where she has been a real stand-out performer. She’s another who is proven quality at this level and we’ve challenged here to add real layers to her game.”

Appleby has also confirmed she has not ruled out adding further new faces to her squad ahead of the season, which starts with an away trip to Bristol Bears on September 11.