Ladies undefeated run continues

Following the kick-off, the chase is on as each team frantically dash - ready for first contact. Mary's make some big hits, turnover possession and put pressure on the Oaks line but a sterling defence effort from the home side keep SMOBL points to 0. Following a shaky start, Oaks score their first points on the scoreboard with their fast pack racing past SMOBL with their first try on the 17th. Oaks’ quick hands and discrete off-loads mean four minutes later they get their second try and are able to convert. Maintaining the pace, Oaks gain their third try at 22 minutes but are unable to convert. Just as the teams slow down for half time Oaks managed to get yet another try on Mary’s at 36 minutes in, the conversion is missed.

HT Score: 22-0 to Oaks

SMOBL regroup themselves at HT and come out more determined than ever. This is quickly proven in the 42nd minute by a Tammy Howells’ self-made try – handing off every Oakmedian that attempts to get in her way with some beautiful footwork. The first try for Mary’s sets the pace for the ladies and at 48 minutes Laura Schulze gets another on the board, followed by Jo Smith’s stunning conversion. Mary’s ensure 9 minutes of solid defence until Sarah Barker, making her debut, completes a sensational interception, feeds to Kath Fok who gets another try! Only 5 points behind, stand in fly half Jo Smith puts a cute chip in behind the Oaks defence resulting in an unlucky clearance from Oaks and allows Kyara Martin to take full advantage of the gap and with fast feet she’s able to get under the posts – again, beautifully converted by Jo Smith. Mary’s are now leading by two points, but of course that isn’t enough for these ladies, Jo Smith intercepts and scores SMOBL’s 5th try of the match.

Player's player: Ellie Clarke for her fine defensive effort and positional play
Coaches players: Sarah Barker for her impact and dangerous attacking form on debut and Jo Smith for her role in standing in for our playmaker Sammy Knighton who unfortunately came off injured.

FT: 29-22 to SMOBL

The ladies next league match is a top of the table clash away to Ellingham & Ringwood on 22 October with both teams both sitting on 14 points in the league table.

Match report written by Sarah Wright.
Match dedicated to: Pearl the chicken