Lichfield Ladies v Saracens Women

Review

In round 10 of the Women’s Premiership games, Lichfield entertained last season’s champions Saracens. In a very tight game, Saracens overcame the home side to maintain their 2015/16 title challenge.

In a continuation of their recent good form, Lichfield started the game really well and after going close a couple of times, were able to open the scoring after 4 minutes with a try from inside centre Chrissie Siczowa. Lichfield continued to dominate Saracens in the early exchanges, particularly in the scrum but after a couple of defensive lapses from Lichfield, Saracens were able to add two tries of their own after 15 and 30 mins to give them a 10-5 half time lead.

After the break, Saracens upped the intensity of their game and began to stretch the home side. Lichfield maintained an excellent defensive line and held firm until the 50^th and 55^th minutes when Saracens added two further unconverted tries to lead 20-5.

As Lichfield brought on replacements to try to change the game, the momentum switched again, but as a result of superb defence from Saracens, Lichfield were unable to convert opportunities into points. With the penalty count against Saracens increasing, a yellow card for Saracens provided Lichfield with one final chance, which their outstanding captain Tash Jones took with a well worked try in the corner at the final whistle, leaving Saracens with a 20-10 win.

Commenting on the match, Lichfield’s Head Coach Rich Bennett said “In difficult conditions, this was an excellent game from both sides and a great advert for Women’s rugby.

I was really pleased with our work rate and efficiency throughout the team, but ultimately we just needed a bit more composure at critical times to be able to convert more scoring opportunities.

We must give credit to a very good Saracens side, who weathered the storm when we had them under real pressure, took their chances and deserved the win.

I was delighted with our replacements, who all made a positive impact on the game, demonstrating the excellent depth we have developed in our squad this season”