RIPON Ladies RUFC are eyeing an historic double success.

Having wrapped up the National One North League title with a 33-6 victory at home to Shelford, the ladies are hoping to add the National Shield to their collection this Sunday.

Ripon will head to the neutral venue of Droitwich looking to topple Midlands-based Camp Hill in the final of the competition.

And already the ladies, coached by Mick Hamill, have conquered the likes of Harlequins and St Albans on their way to the last stage.

"We've every chance of winning," explained press officer Katie Bell. "As long as we can keep our heads we should stand a chance.

"We've had a fantastic season, our fitness has come on and our skills and handling have improved."

Five of the Ripon squad - Katie Bell, Elaine Entwistle, Rebecca Warters, Sam Spence and Caroline Bell - have been helped along the way by their inclusion in the England high performance academy.

Caroline Bell and Spence, who both play in the centres, have gone on a stage, earning call-ups to the England Academy set-up.

Ripon can also boost full Ireland international Bridget Montgomery among their number, although the back-rower has dislocated her shoulder and will miss Sunday's final and potentially the Women's World Cup in Spain at the end of next month.

Unfortunately for the ladies the final will not be at Twickenham, but Katie Bell is quite happy with that fact.

"It would have been amazing to play there, completely unreal," added 25-year-old Bell. "But I'm quite happy we're not as I don't think my nerves could have taken it really."

Updated: 11:53 Friday, April 26, 2002