Mary’s Topple Leaders

St Mary’s travelled to unbeaten league leaders Chew Valley Cats on Sunday looking to put themselves back in the mix with a win. From the start it was clear that both sides were in the mood with tries being swapped after 9 minutes. Mary’s first with an excellent finish from the outstanding Phoebe Beer before Chew’s direct and powerful running led to an almost immediate response. 5-7. Both sides looked well matched early in but Mary’s looked really dangerous with ball in hand. On 15 minutes Beer was in the right place again and after some nifty footwork she dropped on the ball to score hers and Mary’s second. Jade Gamlin then hit the kick of the season from the touch line and it was 5-14. On top now Mary’s were in control. Following some great work from the pack and a series of good drives Mary’s finished off their best try of the day with good hands before an excellent flat pass from Ann Webb saw Beer cross for her hat trick. Gamlin missed this one and it was now 5-19. 7 minutes later Mary’s looked like they’d completed an excellent first half when Webb crossed herself in the opposite corner, which Gamlin converted for a 5-26 lead. However, momentum then swung back the way of the home side when Mary’s committed 1 penalty on the trot and were given a team warning?? Next breakdown Jess Cogan off her feet and a harsh yellow card awarded. Chew however took full advantage and despite some great defence they powered over for their second try. Conversion added and game on again 12-26 at half time. Second half and arm wrestle time with both sides showing great commitment in both attack and defence. 20 minutes to go and the hosts were on top and when they scored their 3rd try and converted it was squeaky bum time. But, Mary’s then wrestled back control. From an excellent set piece they moved the ball wide where winger Lianne Everett raced home to score and secure Mary’s a bonus point. That was pretty much it and Mary’s were able to see the game out, although they’ll be unhappy that they allowed Chew a losing bonus point. This was a strong performance against a really good and much improved Chew side who showed the competitive nature of the league this season. Pats on the backs in the pack to everyone it was a really strong effort. Set piece looked great and the work rate from all was really impressive. A special mention to debutant Jess Cogan. In the backs Ann Webb went really well at 15, Laura McGlone made a welcome return at 9 and Phoebe Beer was exceptional on the wing. Player of the match this week was Abigail Berry who stepped up after a late cry off and put in a brilliant 80 minute shift.
Mary’s are back at home on Sunday against North Petherton. Your support is encouraged