Aylesford Bulls Ladies v Lichfield Ladies

Review

In round 8 of the RFU Women’s Premiership games Lichfield Ladies travelled to Aylesford in Kent and came away with another victory to continue their excellent form so far this season, maintaining third place in the Women’s Premiership.

In atrocious conditions, on a pitch made extremely difficult by heavy rain, Aylesford Bulls started strongest and dominated early possession. But it was Lichfield who scored first, when Sarah Nicholas landed a penalty after 9 minutes. The remainder of the first half saw Aylesford enjoy plenty of possession and territory, but Lichfield remained strong in defence, with both sides finding it very difficult to build any momentum due to the conditions. After going close several times, Aylesford eventually scored through a converted Catherine Spencer try on 37 minutes, to lead 7-3 at half time.

Lichfield reorganised at half time and started much better in the second half. As they adapted to the conditions, Lichfield created more opportunities, orchestrated by scrum half Lucy Nye and scored on 50 minutes, when after sustained pressure, Stacy Maguire scored a well worked try. Aylesford came back strongly and scored another try on 70 minutes through their dominant forwards. But again, Lichfield refused to be beaten and after a break by Amy Cokayne, she kicked ahead, Jasmine Coyne raced through to beat the defence and touched down in the corner on 73 minutes.

Lichfield held on for the win, despite Aylesford missing a last minute penalty.