Thurrock 15 - 3 Henley Hawks Women

In a tough, tension-filled battle at Thurrock’s home ground, the Hawks were unable to break the 17-game defeat against Thurrock losing 15-3. Despite the score and the cold, wet, and windy conditions, Hawks showcased their well-put-together set plays and resilience in defence.

The game kicked off with both teams fighting for possession. Henley moving the ball well and building phases, however struggling to find the try line. Thurrock gave up a penalty, resulting in Lauren Knowler kicking for the sticks, gaining the first points of the match. Due to the conditions, the game was led by both forward packs with Thurrock dominating the scrums in the early minutes of the first half. With the Hawks falling under pressure and Thurrock gaining metres to the try line, Dani Willmore’s defensive pressure held up the first try attempt of the match. A good kick from Thurrock and an unlucky bounce of the ball meant a converted try for Thurrock finished the first half 7-3.

The wet conditions continued to upset the play and continuity of the game resulting in many more penalties and scrums going into the second half. Fresh legs from Henley's subs helped secure some dominance in the second-half scrums. With windy conditions and Thurrock's defensive skills, Henley started falling under pressure giving away loose balls and Thurrock securing possession.

As Thurrock converted a penalty, Henley fell under the strain nearing the end of the second half. Although their continuous defensive efforts and untidy open play Henley fell from their structure and lost control of the game. Thurrock were able to make use of this and secure their final try.

Outstanding work rate from Kara Herbst and Kat Robinson throughout the 80 minutes lead them to gain the well-deserved players of the match.