Women lose to Henley - 100th cap for Meg Mason !

The new year started with an action packed Sunday at Monks Lane for both Women’s teams.

The 1st XV had their return fixture against Henley whilst the 2nd XV faced Basingstoke once more.

The first 25 minutes of the 1st XV fixture saw no scores but both teams threatened. Becks Reeves made a great steal at the back of a defensive line out and the Blues looked threatening in attack with controlled handling considering the conditions. Unfortunately Henley’s defensive pressure was too much and possession was gained through a jackal in the ruck. An attempt at an intercept by captain Meg Mason, on her 100th cap, was unfortunately knocked on and Henley continued their attack towards the try line. The Blues defended with grit and determination and it wasn’t until another unfortunate knock-on was capitalised by the Henley back line that they were able to put the first points on the board.

Newbury continued their attacking rhythm and structure and once again looked threatening to Henley as the defence was pushed backwards. Unfortunately, Henley capitalised on the width and space their backline had and ran in a further try.
Having gained the lead, Henley seemed to find their pace and managed to dismantle the Newbury defence enough to pile over the line once again.

The second half began again with aggression from both teams in attack and defence. Neither team were about to take advantage of their advancements until Henley’s fast-paced centre was able to make it past Newbury’s fullback to score once again.

Newbury benefited from a turnover of possession at the line out with a not-straight throw. They capitalised off the back of a strong and stable scrum allowing centre, Meg Carter to crash through the gain line and put Henley’s defence on the back foot.

A controlled attacking set from Newbury attacked the pitch from right to left and back, hunting for space. It was Meg Horwood who finally found the gap and crashed the ball over the line giving Newbury their first points of the game.

The final play of the game saw Henley secure the win with a further try carried over in the far left corner. Final score 27-7.

The 1st XV has an away fixture at Sutton and Epsom at the weekend as they continue to fight to stay in their league. The 2nd XV will be building towards their next fixture, away to Staines on 21st January.