Newbury Women’s section had both their 1st and 2nd XV teams out for league fixtures on Sunday.

The 1st XV were facing Beckenham whilst the 2nd XV team hosted Farnham at Monks Lane.

Newbury’s 2XV started strong from the kick off. They attacked the opposition with intensity and passion resulting in Newbury getting the ball back into their possession from the off. Using that momentum, they pushed Farnham II back into their 22 with pretty swift work. A penalty from Farnham resulted in a precise penalty kick from fly half, Oli Johnson who has just returned from injury, setting up a Blues lineout. A strong push from the forward pack resulted in Laura Hewett making it over the try line but unfortunately not completing the try due to a knock on.

With Farnham now back in possession with a goal line drop out, Newbury set to receive. A swift take resulted in yet another charge from Newbury straight back to the 5m line. Another mistake from Farnham resulted in another penalty reset that Newbury used swiftly and with precision, resulting in a keen eyed Leah Bertram weaving her way through the gaps to the try line. Having received multiple warnings for high tackles, Farnham’s last line of defence infringed again on Bertram, resulting in the ref awarding a penalty try leaving the score at 7-0.

With the reset well under way Newbury continued their strong attack but were met by an equally strong and determined opposition in Farnham. Play moved up and down the field with each team looking like they had opportunities to score. Farnham managed to complete their offensive and left the first half with an unconverted try at 7-5.

The second half picked up where the first left off with both teams continuing the incredibly physical game. With the rain now setting in handling errors became more frequent for both sides as the ball became muddy and slippery. The Newbury backs awaited their moment as the weather dictated a more forward heavy game. With yet another high tackle from Farnham the ref was left with no choice but to give a team yellow. Newbury used this extra man advantage and got the ball out to Anna Krzyzanowska, who made a strong charge down the wing dodging the players that came at her with ease. Unfortunately, as she made it over the try line yet another knock on affected the Newbury score line.

The game continued with both teams playing with passion and intensity, more penalties from Farnham and an incredibly high tackle resulted in a red, whilst Newbury’s Captain Roisin Winston received a team yellow for a high clear out. Ultimately Farnham won the second half, with a strong forward pack drawing in the Blues and with pick and goes they eventually completed their attack with another try, which was swiftly converted. Leaving the final score at 7-12 to the away side.

The 2s next match is 3rd March at home to Camberley.

#COYB