Mud, Moments and Margins at Hove Women

By Amber Waitimas

17-10

On a muddy, rain-soaked afternoon, it was always going to be a test of composure and physicality. The heavy conditions made expansive rugby difficult, but the squad adapted well and delivered a determined, competitive performance from start to finish.

The forwards laid a strong foundation, working tirelessly in the tight exchanges and holding their own at scrum time. Emma Alleyne and Ellie Rowe combined excellently in the second row, consistently making powerful carries and helping to organise and control the defensive line. Their work rate and physical presence were key throughout. Meghan Rhodes also made a huge impression on her debut, smashing into contact with some excellent carries and showing real dominance in the scrum.

The impact from our forward replacements was also clear to see. Fresh legs brought renewed energy at important stages of the match, and they carried with purpose and defended with real intent. The challenging conditions did not faze them, and their contribution ensured we maintained momentum and intensity across the game.

Despite the slippery ball and heavy ground, there were still bright moments in attack. Lola Yuille-Clough was a constant threat throughout, somehow making running in what felt like a mud pit look easy. One of her powerful breaks resulted in a well earned try, and she later came agonisingly close to adding a second, only to be tackled into touch near the line. Emily Kent, Lily Philpott and El Crowe also made strong breaks, showing determination to create opportunities whenever space appeared.

Another highlight came from a well worked team move following a penalty on the five metre line. The squad showed great composure and accuracy in executing the phase play, creating the space for Alice Hayward to cross the line for a deserved try.

In defence, Emily Moriarty produced several outstanding try saving tackles that proved crucial in keeping the contest tight. Those moments of commitment and awareness made a significant difference.

Overall, it was a very good, closely fought game that could have gone either way. The opposition perhaps adapted slightly better to the conditions and the referee on the day, and the style of play suited their squad marginally more. Nonetheless, there is plenty to be proud of in what was a resilient, upbeat and committed team performance.