Match Report

Stamford Ladies 19 - 45 Ampthill Ladies

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The Lionesses made the trip up the A1 to Stamford to be met with bright breezy conditions but a firm yet somewhat sloping surface. The first 40 the Lionesses had the elements in their favour, this soon told after continued pressure saw Number 10 Sammantha Godleman dive over for the first score.

This was soon followed up by a close-range effort from Number 8 Lilly Staniford.

Stamford hit back with a score of their own before Maya Abraham-Steele stumbled over to leave the half time score 7-19. It could have been much different had it not been for the defensive efforts of Michelle Howell, Sophie Roberts and Chloe Pearce, all making outstanding cover tackles.

The second half was a different story with the Lionesses now playing into the elements and seemingly camped in their own half for the first 20 minutes with another great defensive effort from Kim Yardley in only her second ever match. However, the Stamford pressure told and they soon scored to close the gap. Things were made worse when a moment of indiscipline saw a red card and the Lionesses reduced to 14 for the remainder of the afternoon. Two bone crunching hits from Sofia Kruszewska (Zof) forced a turnover and continued pressure with continuous phases led to a score from Maddie Moore.

Then two long range solo tries from Zof and Samantha Godleman secured the win before Bethany Knaggs crashed over to wrap things up.

Lilly Staniford kicking 5 out of 7 to leave the final score 19-45.

Coaches Comments

This was a much-improved performance from the Lionesses with another two Ladies playing their first ever game of rugby: Sophie Roberts producing a player of the match performance in her first ever senior game! We now have a great blend of youth and experience which will only get better with the current crop of mini and youth coming through, so watch this space!

Forward of the Match: Madeline Moore
Back of the Match: Sophie Roberts

Full Time

Stamford Ladies: 19
Ampthill Ladies: 45