Newark 41 – 0 Ashbourne

A perfect day for flowing rugby and the women put on a show for the enthusiastic crowd.
It was agreed with the opposition to play thirds, this would allow both teams to make alterations without disrupting the flow of the game to much.
Newark started well with their defensive line causing disruption, confusion and winning the collisions around the breakdown area. This continued throughout the game allowing the women to turn defence into attack several times throughout the contest.
Newark’s ability to involve multiple players, through excellent support and good continuity between forwards and backs was noticeable today. This created many opportunities for all the players to show off their skills and how far they have developed as a team since Christmas.
Most of the tries today were scored by the attacking back line up, even though this was changed several times. Their running lines and set plays which have been worked on over several dark, cold nights came together. Creating space for others and taking the ball at pace to enable others the opportunity to score.
Scrummaging had been worked on over the week and this was prevalent today along with the reliable lineout. The forwards work hard throughout and covered the pitch well. Linking up play and maintaining procession as well as dominating the collision areas. Everyone putting in a shift, supporting and recognising each other’s efforts throughout the afternoon.
The women’s fitness was also noticeable as they kept the pressure on the Ashbourne team throughout the game.
Seven tries and three conversions were scored today, not by seven individuals but by seven team opportunities of supporting each other, and a togetherness as being ONE TEAM.

By Mark Dobb