At Basford we have 3 girls who are in the Elite TDG squad at U18 level, Emily Scott, Sophie Russell and Natalie Mcclarnon.
We are pleased to announce that we now have some of our U15's following in their footsteps.
We have been informed that 6 of our girls have been selected to attend the Schools of Rugby.
The RFUW brief for the Schools of Rugby is that they are focussed towards high performance, elite players. They are looking at further developing the top players in the County who have demonstrated the potential to go on and play at a higher level.
The programme focuses on skill development with Players focussing on "basic skills done well".
The girls who have recieved invites into the SOR are
Alex Grant
Jess Harris
both the girls will attend the East Counties School of Rugby at Culford School
Yasmin Pemberton
Megan Robson
Lucie Wood
Jessica Wilkins
these 4 girls will join the elite girls from Herts at the Saracens Academy
Well done to all the girls
you have all done the Club and County proud!!
Tuesday, December 18, 2007
Basford v Hertford
Sunday 16th Dec
Last sunday the U15's travelled round to Ware to play against local rivals Hertford.
As usual the girls recieved a warm welcome from Hertford.
With the game being close to christmas, both teams were without key players and it was decided to play 11 a side.
This was the second time the girls had met this season and with all but a few of the girls being nominated for East Trials both sides gave their all.
The Basford forwards as they have been all season were dominant and gave little ball away to the Hertford girls.
Playing her first full game at Hooker Amy Browne had a fantastic game making some big hits and made a terrific break from the back of a ruck to run from the half way line to touch down under the posts.
We also welcomed back Hannah into the team after a long absence and she proved that she had not forgotten anything, making some timely challenges to thwart Hertfords attack.
The backs were given plenty of ball to run at the Hertford defence and used the space across the pitch to display some excellent ball handling and passing.
With all but 2 of the girls getting on the score sheet this week, the girls ensured that they finished the 1st half of the season on a winning note.
Although the final score of 62-5 to Basford may look flattering, the Hertford girls never stopped running at our girls and gave them a real run for their money.
Congratulations to all the girls for their efforts so far this season.
Also a big thank you and a Happy Christmas to all at Hertford for making the day enjoyable for the girls.
Last sunday the U15's travelled round to Ware to play against local rivals Hertford.
As usual the girls recieved a warm welcome from Hertford.
With the game being close to christmas, both teams were without key players and it was decided to play 11 a side.
This was the second time the girls had met this season and with all but a few of the girls being nominated for East Trials both sides gave their all.
The Basford forwards as they have been all season were dominant and gave little ball away to the Hertford girls.
Playing her first full game at Hooker Amy Browne had a fantastic game making some big hits and made a terrific break from the back of a ruck to run from the half way line to touch down under the posts.
We also welcomed back Hannah into the team after a long absence and she proved that she had not forgotten anything, making some timely challenges to thwart Hertfords attack.
The backs were given plenty of ball to run at the Hertford defence and used the space across the pitch to display some excellent ball handling and passing.
With all but 2 of the girls getting on the score sheet this week, the girls ensured that they finished the 1st half of the season on a winning note.
Although the final score of 62-5 to Basford may look flattering, the Hertford girls never stopped running at our girls and gave them a real run for their money.
Congratulations to all the girls for their efforts so far this season.
Also a big thank you and a Happy Christmas to all at Hertford for making the day enjoyable for the girls.
Monday, December 10, 2007
U15's
Sunday 9th Dec 07.
With a squad depleted by injury and illness, the girls travelled over to Saracens on sunday to play against Saracens, Welwyn and Hertford.
The aim behind the fixture was to give the coaches a final look at the girls before selection for Regional trials.
Each team seemed to be in the same position with girls missing for one reason or another.
Given the numbers available it was decided to play 10's Rugby.
With the weather wet, windy and an extremely heavy pitch to play on, the girls opened the day with a game against Hertford.
Having met earlier in the season with Basford coming out on top, confidence was high amongst the girls.
From the off, the basford girls went on the offensive with the forwards controlling the game in the middle of the park.
Some strong tackling from Ellie, Meg Lucie and Frances kept the Hertford forwards on the back foot which allowed the backs to play some neat passing rugby to open the scoring through Jessica.
As the game went on the Basford girls made their dominance pay with some deft handling on the 5m line which following a nicely weighted pass gave Meg the chance to go over in the corner.
Not wanting to be outdone, Frances collected a pass on the other wing shortly after and crashed over for the 3rd try.
Turning round at 15-0 the girls immediately went on the attack again which was quickly rewarded with a try for Olivia who minutes later went over again for her second.
The final try fell to Ellie who fully deserved her try after the work she had put in in keeping the Hertford forwards quiet.
the only conversion of the game was made by Yas.
Final score 32-0
In the 2nd game the girls came up against Welwyn, and again having beaten them earlier in the season at the Rochford Festival, the girls were ready to take the game to their opponents.
Whilst the game was a lot tighter than the first one, the forwards were keeping their counterparts quiet which allowed the backs freedom to run at the Welwyn line.
Abbie opened the scoring with a well worked try under the posts to give Maddy an easy shot at the conversion, which she calmly put away.
Shortly after Ellie went over after some strong defensive tackling from Welwyn looked like they might hold the girls at bay. Again Maddy was on hand to convert the kick.
A rare mistake from the pack saw them penalised for pushing too early in the scrum and from the resulting penalty Welwyn went over for their first try. Courtney duly converting the kick.
Turning round at 14-7 the girls again began to pressure the Welwyn defense and it wasnt long before Ellie went over for her 2nd try of the game. Maddy again made light work of the conversion.
with the minutes ticking away, some excelent play in moving the ball across the park gave the ball to Jessica W who evaded a couple of tackles to run in her try.
Unfortunately Maddies boot was on the wrong foot this time and the conversion went wide of the posts.
With the score nicely settled at 26-7 and with only a minute left on the clock, the Basford girls were penalised in a scrum and from the resulting penalty Welwyn went over for their 2nd try.
Final Score 26-12
The final game saw the girls play Saracens, and although they met on a couple of occasions last season, they had yet to meet this year.
Fully aware of the danger from the boot of Claire Shutler after the County meeting between Herts and Essex, the girls were intent on closing her down to restrict the damage she could cause.
With the forwards again putting in some big hits, it didnt take too long for the backs to open the scoring through Maddy, who duly converted her kick.
From the restart Lucie collected the ball and ran straight through the Sarries defence to go over under the posts,with Maddy stepping up to convert.
Amy who was playing her 1st competative game of Rugby in the front row was not going to be outdone by her more experienced team mates and made some excellent tackles and continually ran at the Sarries defence with ball in hand.
Just before half time Jessica W scored her 3rd try of the day , going over in the corner.
Turning round at 19-0 things were going according to plan.
Following some smart play in the centre, the ball was fed to Frances who seemed to forget that she was a 2nd row and went on a blinding run half the length of the pitch to go over for her 2nd try of the day.
Maddy presumably still shell shocked from seeing Frank run that far was too dazed to convert the kick.
As the game was drawing to its close, Jess Harris who has had a terrific season so far at Hooker raced clear to touch down.
Final score 29-0
But for two mistakes which gave away penalties close to the try line, the girls almost kept another clean sheet.
Congratulations to all the girls for some excellent performances out on the pitch.
It has certainly given Simon and Peter something to think about at Regional.
With a squad depleted by injury and illness, the girls travelled over to Saracens on sunday to play against Saracens, Welwyn and Hertford.
The aim behind the fixture was to give the coaches a final look at the girls before selection for Regional trials.
Each team seemed to be in the same position with girls missing for one reason or another.
Given the numbers available it was decided to play 10's Rugby.
With the weather wet, windy and an extremely heavy pitch to play on, the girls opened the day with a game against Hertford.
Having met earlier in the season with Basford coming out on top, confidence was high amongst the girls.
From the off, the basford girls went on the offensive with the forwards controlling the game in the middle of the park.
Some strong tackling from Ellie, Meg Lucie and Frances kept the Hertford forwards on the back foot which allowed the backs to play some neat passing rugby to open the scoring through Jessica.
As the game went on the Basford girls made their dominance pay with some deft handling on the 5m line which following a nicely weighted pass gave Meg the chance to go over in the corner.
Not wanting to be outdone, Frances collected a pass on the other wing shortly after and crashed over for the 3rd try.
Turning round at 15-0 the girls immediately went on the attack again which was quickly rewarded with a try for Olivia who minutes later went over again for her second.
The final try fell to Ellie who fully deserved her try after the work she had put in in keeping the Hertford forwards quiet.
the only conversion of the game was made by Yas.
Final score 32-0
In the 2nd game the girls came up against Welwyn, and again having beaten them earlier in the season at the Rochford Festival, the girls were ready to take the game to their opponents.
Whilst the game was a lot tighter than the first one, the forwards were keeping their counterparts quiet which allowed the backs freedom to run at the Welwyn line.
Abbie opened the scoring with a well worked try under the posts to give Maddy an easy shot at the conversion, which she calmly put away.
Shortly after Ellie went over after some strong defensive tackling from Welwyn looked like they might hold the girls at bay. Again Maddy was on hand to convert the kick.
A rare mistake from the pack saw them penalised for pushing too early in the scrum and from the resulting penalty Welwyn went over for their first try. Courtney duly converting the kick.
Turning round at 14-7 the girls again began to pressure the Welwyn defense and it wasnt long before Ellie went over for her 2nd try of the game. Maddy again made light work of the conversion.
with the minutes ticking away, some excelent play in moving the ball across the park gave the ball to Jessica W who evaded a couple of tackles to run in her try.
Unfortunately Maddies boot was on the wrong foot this time and the conversion went wide of the posts.
With the score nicely settled at 26-7 and with only a minute left on the clock, the Basford girls were penalised in a scrum and from the resulting penalty Welwyn went over for their 2nd try.
Final Score 26-12
The final game saw the girls play Saracens, and although they met on a couple of occasions last season, they had yet to meet this year.
Fully aware of the danger from the boot of Claire Shutler after the County meeting between Herts and Essex, the girls were intent on closing her down to restrict the damage she could cause.
With the forwards again putting in some big hits, it didnt take too long for the backs to open the scoring through Maddy, who duly converted her kick.
From the restart Lucie collected the ball and ran straight through the Sarries defence to go over under the posts,with Maddy stepping up to convert.
Amy who was playing her 1st competative game of Rugby in the front row was not going to be outdone by her more experienced team mates and made some excellent tackles and continually ran at the Sarries defence with ball in hand.
Just before half time Jessica W scored her 3rd try of the day , going over in the corner.
Turning round at 19-0 things were going according to plan.
Following some smart play in the centre, the ball was fed to Frances who seemed to forget that she was a 2nd row and went on a blinding run half the length of the pitch to go over for her 2nd try of the day.
Maddy presumably still shell shocked from seeing Frank run that far was too dazed to convert the kick.
As the game was drawing to its close, Jess Harris who has had a terrific season so far at Hooker raced clear to touch down.
Final score 29-0
But for two mistakes which gave away penalties close to the try line, the girls almost kept another clean sheet.
Congratulations to all the girls for some excellent performances out on the pitch.
It has certainly given Simon and Peter something to think about at Regional.
Thursday, November 29, 2007
Basford Post Op Nutritional Advice
Nothing is left to chance at "Basford", and every effort is made to ensure that any player out through injury is continually monitored and is given the support and assistance to ensure that they make a quick recovery and fighting to get back into the team.
Finally on the road to recovery after two major operations to repair her leg, McB has been visited by the Basford Nutritionist(Dr Sarah Carmen MD, MBE, Big Mac ) who has put together a specially prepared programme to ensure that when the she has the cast removed,and resumes training, she will be in perfect shape to move up to the forwards.
Tuesday, November 27, 2007
Basford v Letchworth / Paviors
This was the Basford girls second trip to Letchworth this season (they played the season opener there), and the girls were all looking forward to another competitive game, along with a much anticipated game against Paviors – whom the girls met in last seasons National 7’s.
Due to injuries, Letchworth were down to 10 players, so many thanks to the Paviors girls who volunteered to play for Letchworth to make it an even numbered game.
Letchworth kicked off and, as usual Basford immediately went on the offensive, with their first attack nearly leading to a try, with only a fumble whilst grounding the ball keeping the score at nil all.
Letchworth defended well, with some big tackles and some runs from deep from Sasha, but the Basford girls weren’t in the mood for letting anyone across their line. The deadlock was broken when Scotty showed a turn of pace and ran in from 25m out to score. 0 - 5
Three minutes later, Natalie seemed to burst through the Letchworth defence from nowhere, and a run down the touchline saw her score in the corner 0 – 10.
Letchworth rallied from the restart and started to press Basford back into their own 20m but, again, Basford showed that they can defend with the best and managed to weather the storm. Before half time, Natalie again crossed the Letchworth line for her second try, born out of a forwards move 0 – 15.
Basford kicked off the second half, and Letchworth again pressed forward with Basford touching down behind their own line to give away a 5m scrum – and things looked good for Letchworth. Unfortunately, there must have been some sort of infringement within the scrum as the referee awarded a penalty to Basford – the ball was duly kicked in to touch and Basford were out on the attack again.
In a wonderful piece of individual skill Scotty made a tackle on a Letchworth girl, forced her to spill the ball, got to her feet, picked the ball up, and went over to score – all in about 3 nano-seconds!! 0 – 20
The final score of the match was provided by Sarah ‘wing prop’ Carmen, who made her usual 10m run with three opponents hanging on to her – great strength and determination! 0 - 25
Final result: Letchford RFC 0 Basford 25.
Following a match between Letchworth and Paviors - thanks to the Basford girls who played for Letchworth – and under the ‘quiet glow’ of the Letchworth floodlights, the Basford girls took on Paviors in the first 15-a-side meeting between the two clubs.
Basford kicked off and immediately went hunting for the ball, pinning the Paviors back in there own half for a while – but some very resolute defending from the girls from Nottingham, and Sasha ( she gets about a bit!!) kept the Basford girls at bay. But it was too good to last and Natalie, (playing at No. 8), picked the ball up from the back of the scrum and powered 10m to cross the line 0 – 5.
Basford kept pressing forward, but couldn’t break the defence of Paviors again in the first half.
The second half started as the first finished with Basford again camping for periods of time in the Paviors half, and then Sarah ‘wing prop’ Carmen scored a bizarre try. I think one of the Paviors girls tried to kick the ball clear, only for it to hit Sasha (her team mate) and rebound back over the try line, whereby Sarah was the first to react and dived on the ball for a score – if I have that wrong I’m sure someone will correct me! 0 – 10
Basford scored one more try – Sophie went in from 5m out following a string of passes 0 – 15 – before the game was brought to a slightly premature end by a bad, but accidental, injury to Sarah McB – our thanks go to everyone involved at Letchworth, Paviors, Basford and the Ambulance Service for their prompt attention and actions.
Final result: Paviors RFC 0 Basford 15.
Our thanks to Letchworth and Paviors for what, until the injury, was a great day of hard competitive rugby, played in the best of rugby spirits – perhaps we can all do it again later in the season.
And finally, our thoughts must go out to Sarah McB, and Paula and Darren (her parents) – I know all the girls from all the clubs wish to pass on their heartfelt best wishes to Sarah for a speedy recovery and the earliest possible return to the very best of health.
Due to injuries, Letchworth were down to 10 players, so many thanks to the Paviors girls who volunteered to play for Letchworth to make it an even numbered game.
Letchworth kicked off and, as usual Basford immediately went on the offensive, with their first attack nearly leading to a try, with only a fumble whilst grounding the ball keeping the score at nil all.
Letchworth defended well, with some big tackles and some runs from deep from Sasha, but the Basford girls weren’t in the mood for letting anyone across their line. The deadlock was broken when Scotty showed a turn of pace and ran in from 25m out to score. 0 - 5
Three minutes later, Natalie seemed to burst through the Letchworth defence from nowhere, and a run down the touchline saw her score in the corner 0 – 10.
Letchworth rallied from the restart and started to press Basford back into their own 20m but, again, Basford showed that they can defend with the best and managed to weather the storm. Before half time, Natalie again crossed the Letchworth line for her second try, born out of a forwards move 0 – 15.
Basford kicked off the second half, and Letchworth again pressed forward with Basford touching down behind their own line to give away a 5m scrum – and things looked good for Letchworth. Unfortunately, there must have been some sort of infringement within the scrum as the referee awarded a penalty to Basford – the ball was duly kicked in to touch and Basford were out on the attack again.
In a wonderful piece of individual skill Scotty made a tackle on a Letchworth girl, forced her to spill the ball, got to her feet, picked the ball up, and went over to score – all in about 3 nano-seconds!! 0 – 20
The final score of the match was provided by Sarah ‘wing prop’ Carmen, who made her usual 10m run with three opponents hanging on to her – great strength and determination! 0 - 25
Final result: Letchford RFC 0 Basford 25.
Following a match between Letchworth and Paviors - thanks to the Basford girls who played for Letchworth – and under the ‘quiet glow’ of the Letchworth floodlights, the Basford girls took on Paviors in the first 15-a-side meeting between the two clubs.
Basford kicked off and immediately went hunting for the ball, pinning the Paviors back in there own half for a while – but some very resolute defending from the girls from Nottingham, and Sasha ( she gets about a bit!!) kept the Basford girls at bay. But it was too good to last and Natalie, (playing at No. 8), picked the ball up from the back of the scrum and powered 10m to cross the line 0 – 5.
Basford kept pressing forward, but couldn’t break the defence of Paviors again in the first half.
The second half started as the first finished with Basford again camping for periods of time in the Paviors half, and then Sarah ‘wing prop’ Carmen scored a bizarre try. I think one of the Paviors girls tried to kick the ball clear, only for it to hit Sasha (her team mate) and rebound back over the try line, whereby Sarah was the first to react and dived on the ball for a score – if I have that wrong I’m sure someone will correct me! 0 – 10
Basford scored one more try – Sophie went in from 5m out following a string of passes 0 – 15 – before the game was brought to a slightly premature end by a bad, but accidental, injury to Sarah McB – our thanks go to everyone involved at Letchworth, Paviors, Basford and the Ambulance Service for their prompt attention and actions.
Final result: Paviors RFC 0 Basford 15.
Our thanks to Letchworth and Paviors for what, until the injury, was a great day of hard competitive rugby, played in the best of rugby spirits – perhaps we can all do it again later in the season.
And finally, our thoughts must go out to Sarah McB, and Paula and Darren (her parents) – I know all the girls from all the clubs wish to pass on their heartfelt best wishes to Sarah for a speedy recovery and the earliest possible return to the very best of health.
Frank's sniper got MCB!!!
As the U15's were having a weekend off, Franks sniper was on the prowl
After playing an excellent game with some superb tackles MCB broke her leg on Sunday. Sarah has broken both her Tibia and Fibia as well as dislocating her ankle.
She had an operation late on Sunday night to insert a steel plate and countless screws into her leg and will undergo a further operation on Wed morning to sort out the tendons and ligaments.
She will hopefully be home by the weekend.
The prognosis is that she will make a full recovery, but wont play again this season.
Sarah wants to thank all the girls who cheered her off on sunday, and apologises for the screaming on sunday..
Please post your messages to Sarah on the blog to wish her a speedy recovery.
After playing an excellent game with some superb tackles MCB broke her leg on Sunday. Sarah has broken both her Tibia and Fibia as well as dislocating her ankle.
She had an operation late on Sunday night to insert a steel plate and countless screws into her leg and will undergo a further operation on Wed morning to sort out the tendons and ligaments.
She will hopefully be home by the weekend.
The prognosis is that she will make a full recovery, but wont play again this season.
Sarah wants to thank all the girls who cheered her off on sunday, and apologises for the screaming on sunday..
Please post your messages to Sarah on the blog to wish her a speedy recovery.
Monday, November 19, 2007
Brains and Brawn
Every young girls dream(so I am told) is to be a movie star or a beautiful model and marry a prince!!! To have their own pony etc etc blah blah
As the years role by and reality strikes and they stand more chance of finding shergar giving rides on Southend beach, they realise that an education might not be a bad thing. So they work hard at school, take up rugby and lo and behold they gain A*s and become the hero of their rugby team.
Now the story would go something like " the handsome hunk who is the 1st team captain sweeps them off their feet and they fall in love and live happily ever after".
Unfortunately our clever, intelligent, rugby playing girl still dreams of being that beautiful movie star adored by millions. So she forsakes her education and relatively small talent for the game of rugby and goes off to drama school.
After years of knocking on agents doors, and wearing out numerous casting couches!!!!
she finally gets her break on CHILDRENS TV as
GROTT BAGS
Basford Girls at County Festival.
Sunday 18th November 07
Last weekend saw the 2nd Annual Festival played at Harlow RFC.
A special Thanks is to go to Alan Brooking,Chris McFerren, Alan Webb and all the staff at Harlow Rugby Club for organising a terrific days rugby.
Kelly and the ladies section for a superb job as pitch marshalls despite suffering frostbite.
Linda and the girls in the Kitchens for the food and hot drinks throughout the day.
Alex Fleming the overworked Physio,
Ken & Callem Potter for getting up early to set up the pitches and marshalling points.
Last but not least Tony McClarnon, Paula Bates and Tina Turner whos tireless work in getting the thing off the ground didnt go unnoticed.
And all the coaches, girls and parents who braved the weather to ensure the day was a success.
The Essex girls started the day full of confidence following the back to back wins against Kent and Berkshire in the previous county fixtures.
The day started well with a 19-0 victory against Eastern Counties who put up a stirling display for what was a relatively new squad of players.
Scorers: Tries Alex (2) Abbie (1) Cons: Yasmin (2)
The 2nd Game against Middlesex saw the girls come up against a team with some pace out on the wings and only some resulute defending in the opening exchanges stopped Middlesex from opening up a lead.The forwards soon started to control the game and it wasnt long before the 1st try came from Yas. This spured on the girls who soon opened up a 15-0 lead.However a momentary lapse out on the wing, allowed a middlesex player to race through and touch down.
Final Score 15-5
Tries Yasmin, Lucie, Abbie.
The 3rd game was against unknown Leicestershire, however the girls quickly settled into their stride and with the forwards dominating at scrums and the breakdown, it wasnt long before Alex opened the scoring with the first of her two tries. Not to be out done, Abbie and Anna both grabbed a brace each before Lucie and Jessica added one apiece.
Final Score 44-0
Tries: Alex (2), Abbie(2), Anna(2) Lucie and JessicaCons Yasmin (2).
Going into the 4th Game, Essex and Herts both had maximum points and the winner would almost be certain to lift the trophy .Both sets of girls know each other well from club and regional rugby, and the game started at a terrific pace.
Both sets of forwards refused to give an inch and the game at half time was finely balanced.Towards the end of the 1st half, an Essex penalty on the Herts 5m line looked like it would be the opening score, but some excellent defense from the Herts girls withheld the onslaught and cleared the danger.
The game swung Herts way when a clever dummy from Claire gave her an opening to go outside the defense and go over in the corner 0-5.Again both teams were evenly matched and as the minutes ticked away, another break from Herts gave them their 2nd try of the game.
Final Score 0-10.
The last game for the girls saw them up against Oxford and having to win and hoping Herts slipped up against middlesex.
Although cold,tired and understrength due to injuries in the previous game, the girls were too strong for the Oxford girls and two well worked tries gave them a 10-0 victory.
Thanks to Herts for the loan of the 3 girls who played as our front row following the loss of 4 players in the previous game due to injury.
It was a terrific days rugby all round, and Herts were worthy champions for the 2nd year running.
The respect and friendship that has grown between Essex and Herts can only serve to make East a formidable force to be reckoned with in the coming Regional programme.
Here's to next year when we want our trophy back.Congratulations to all the girls who played some excellent rugby and did themselves, their coaches, clubs and county proud.
Essex County Festival U15's Champions Hertfordshire
Runners Up Essex
Basford Girls Frances Jess Alice Megan Lucie Alex Layla Yasmin Jessica Abbie Olivia Madeleine Emma (Mouse)
Before starting with the match reports, huge congratulations must be given to all the organisers and volunteers, who through their un-stinting efforts made the festival an extremely enjoyable and successful day.
Without their efforts, these events would not take place, and I know that all the girls, from all the County sides, want to say a massive thank you.
The day started cold – and remained that way(!), but at least forecast rain/sleet/snow held off until the last game of the day, leading to some excellent rugby being played.
The first game for the Essex girls was against Eastern Counties, with the girls from Suffolk/Norfolk/Cambridgeshire kicking off into a stiff breeze. From the start, the Essex girls took the initiative and pressed forward, with the impressive Essex pack leading the way. The Eastern Counties side put up some stout defence, but Essex were pressing the attack at all opportunities. The scoring was opened when Kes received the ball in her own half, gave a couple of steps and turned on the pace to sprint fully 55m to score near the corner 5 – 0.
Following the kick off, and a couple of passes, Danni also showed her pace to score virtually from the restart with another blistering run 10 - 0
Essex kept up the pressure, and the Eastern Counties girls were gradually driven back towards their line, with Essex knocking on 5m out.
From the resulting scrum, the Essex forwards again showed their strength, winning the ball against the head, and Scotty (scrum half) ran in to score the third Essex try 15 – 0.
Half time came and went with Essex still taking the game to their opponents – the forwards were now dominating the scrums, and providing a fantastic platform for the backs to work off. This allowed India to be on the receiving end of a good passing move, and she duly obliged by scoring with ease. 20 – 0.
The Eastern Counties girls rallied, but Essex were in no mood to ship any points and their defence was as good as their attacking play, with all the girls covering any move made by the opposition.Late in the game, Danni was again the beneficiary of a great passing move and went over to score her second try to bring the game to a close 25 – 0.
Final score: Essex 25 Eastern Counties 0
Next up for Essex were Leicestershire – an unknown quantity as the Counties had not met in recent history – and they proved to be a tight, well drilled, physical side.
Again Essex dominated territory from the start and applied the pressure through the whole team. The Leicestershire girls put in some excellent defensive play, but India managed to score after a period of sustained Essex pressure 5 – 0.
Play resumed with Essex attacking, and Leicestershire defending. The Essex pack were starting to have their way in the scrum, and the backs always looked dangerous. After a couple of scrums, Natalie managed to power over the line for the second Essex try 10 – 0 at half time.
The second half continued in the same vein as the first, with Leicestershire making some big defensive tackles to keep the Essex girls at bay, but following a tap penalty 10m from the Leicestershire line, Natalie again powered over the line for her second of the match 15 – 0.
The score line didn’t reflect the excellent effort that the Leicestershire girls put into the game – well done – and it would be nice for the two counties to meet each other on another opportunity. Final score: Essex 15 Leicestershire 0
The final game of the day for the Essex girls was a ‘winner takes all’ match up with their rivals from neighbouring Hertfordshire. The girls play a lot of club rugby against each other, and then form a large portion of the East Region representative side, so they know each other very well, and everyone was looking forward to a great match – and we weren’t disappointed.
From the outset, both teams played some excellent attacking rugby, combined with some excellent defensive rugby, culminating in a game mainly centred between the two 20m lines. As Essex tried to find a way through, the Hertfordshire girls shut the door firmly in their faces, and the Essex girls put in some great tackles whenever Hertfordshire looked like finding the telling pass. It was going to take something special to break the deadlock – and Essex found the move late on in the first half. Kes managed to step her marker and made a break out of her own half. Wonderful supporting play from the Essex girls resulted in Natalie offloading the ball from contact to Frenchie, who ran a great line to score from 10m out. 5 – 0 at half time.
With a game as tight as this, the Essex girls showed some maturity by playing for territory during the second half. With a great display of kicking for touch, combined with not giving an inch when Hertfordshire attacked, the Essex girls ran down the clock to successfully defend their title.Congratulations and commiserations must be given to the Hertfordshire girls who gave Essex a run throughout the whole game – lets hope the Essex and Hertfordshire girls, combined with the Eastern Counties girls combine after Christmas into an awesome East Region side.Final score: Essex 5 Hertfordshire 0
Essex County Festival U18 Champions Essex
Runners-up Hertfordshire
And finally, a message of thanks for all the players, from all the Counties, who made the day worthwhile with excellent displays of rugby – the future looks very bright indeed!!
Phil French Ace Reporter Daily Bugle
Last weekend saw the 2nd Annual Festival played at Harlow RFC.
A special Thanks is to go to Alan Brooking,Chris McFerren, Alan Webb and all the staff at Harlow Rugby Club for organising a terrific days rugby.
Kelly and the ladies section for a superb job as pitch marshalls despite suffering frostbite.
Linda and the girls in the Kitchens for the food and hot drinks throughout the day.
Alex Fleming the overworked Physio,
Ken & Callem Potter for getting up early to set up the pitches and marshalling points.
Last but not least Tony McClarnon, Paula Bates and Tina Turner whos tireless work in getting the thing off the ground didnt go unnoticed.
And all the coaches, girls and parents who braved the weather to ensure the day was a success.
U15's
The Essex girls started the day full of confidence following the back to back wins against Kent and Berkshire in the previous county fixtures.
The day started well with a 19-0 victory against Eastern Counties who put up a stirling display for what was a relatively new squad of players.
Scorers: Tries Alex (2) Abbie (1) Cons: Yasmin (2)
The 2nd Game against Middlesex saw the girls come up against a team with some pace out on the wings and only some resulute defending in the opening exchanges stopped Middlesex from opening up a lead.The forwards soon started to control the game and it wasnt long before the 1st try came from Yas. This spured on the girls who soon opened up a 15-0 lead.However a momentary lapse out on the wing, allowed a middlesex player to race through and touch down.
Final Score 15-5
Tries Yasmin, Lucie, Abbie.
The 3rd game was against unknown Leicestershire, however the girls quickly settled into their stride and with the forwards dominating at scrums and the breakdown, it wasnt long before Alex opened the scoring with the first of her two tries. Not to be out done, Abbie and Anna both grabbed a brace each before Lucie and Jessica added one apiece.
Final Score 44-0
Tries: Alex (2), Abbie(2), Anna(2) Lucie and JessicaCons Yasmin (2).
Going into the 4th Game, Essex and Herts both had maximum points and the winner would almost be certain to lift the trophy .Both sets of girls know each other well from club and regional rugby, and the game started at a terrific pace.
Both sets of forwards refused to give an inch and the game at half time was finely balanced.Towards the end of the 1st half, an Essex penalty on the Herts 5m line looked like it would be the opening score, but some excellent defense from the Herts girls withheld the onslaught and cleared the danger.
The game swung Herts way when a clever dummy from Claire gave her an opening to go outside the defense and go over in the corner 0-5.Again both teams were evenly matched and as the minutes ticked away, another break from Herts gave them their 2nd try of the game.
Final Score 0-10.
The last game for the girls saw them up against Oxford and having to win and hoping Herts slipped up against middlesex.
Although cold,tired and understrength due to injuries in the previous game, the girls were too strong for the Oxford girls and two well worked tries gave them a 10-0 victory.
Thanks to Herts for the loan of the 3 girls who played as our front row following the loss of 4 players in the previous game due to injury.
It was a terrific days rugby all round, and Herts were worthy champions for the 2nd year running.
The respect and friendship that has grown between Essex and Herts can only serve to make East a formidable force to be reckoned with in the coming Regional programme.
Here's to next year when we want our trophy back.Congratulations to all the girls who played some excellent rugby and did themselves, their coaches, clubs and county proud.
Essex County Festival U15's Champions Hertfordshire
Runners Up Essex
Basford Girls Frances Jess Alice Megan Lucie Alex Layla Yasmin Jessica Abbie Olivia Madeleine Emma (Mouse)
U18's
Before starting with the match reports, huge congratulations must be given to all the organisers and volunteers, who through their un-stinting efforts made the festival an extremely enjoyable and successful day.
Without their efforts, these events would not take place, and I know that all the girls, from all the County sides, want to say a massive thank you.
The day started cold – and remained that way(!), but at least forecast rain/sleet/snow held off until the last game of the day, leading to some excellent rugby being played.
The first game for the Essex girls was against Eastern Counties, with the girls from Suffolk/Norfolk/Cambridgeshire kicking off into a stiff breeze. From the start, the Essex girls took the initiative and pressed forward, with the impressive Essex pack leading the way. The Eastern Counties side put up some stout defence, but Essex were pressing the attack at all opportunities. The scoring was opened when Kes received the ball in her own half, gave a couple of steps and turned on the pace to sprint fully 55m to score near the corner 5 – 0.
Following the kick off, and a couple of passes, Danni also showed her pace to score virtually from the restart with another blistering run 10 - 0
Essex kept up the pressure, and the Eastern Counties girls were gradually driven back towards their line, with Essex knocking on 5m out.
From the resulting scrum, the Essex forwards again showed their strength, winning the ball against the head, and Scotty (scrum half) ran in to score the third Essex try 15 – 0.
Half time came and went with Essex still taking the game to their opponents – the forwards were now dominating the scrums, and providing a fantastic platform for the backs to work off. This allowed India to be on the receiving end of a good passing move, and she duly obliged by scoring with ease. 20 – 0.
The Eastern Counties girls rallied, but Essex were in no mood to ship any points and their defence was as good as their attacking play, with all the girls covering any move made by the opposition.Late in the game, Danni was again the beneficiary of a great passing move and went over to score her second try to bring the game to a close 25 – 0.
Final score: Essex 25 Eastern Counties 0
Next up for Essex were Leicestershire – an unknown quantity as the Counties had not met in recent history – and they proved to be a tight, well drilled, physical side.
Again Essex dominated territory from the start and applied the pressure through the whole team. The Leicestershire girls put in some excellent defensive play, but India managed to score after a period of sustained Essex pressure 5 – 0.
Play resumed with Essex attacking, and Leicestershire defending. The Essex pack were starting to have their way in the scrum, and the backs always looked dangerous. After a couple of scrums, Natalie managed to power over the line for the second Essex try 10 – 0 at half time.
The second half continued in the same vein as the first, with Leicestershire making some big defensive tackles to keep the Essex girls at bay, but following a tap penalty 10m from the Leicestershire line, Natalie again powered over the line for her second of the match 15 – 0.
The score line didn’t reflect the excellent effort that the Leicestershire girls put into the game – well done – and it would be nice for the two counties to meet each other on another opportunity. Final score: Essex 15 Leicestershire 0
The final game of the day for the Essex girls was a ‘winner takes all’ match up with their rivals from neighbouring Hertfordshire. The girls play a lot of club rugby against each other, and then form a large portion of the East Region representative side, so they know each other very well, and everyone was looking forward to a great match – and we weren’t disappointed.
From the outset, both teams played some excellent attacking rugby, combined with some excellent defensive rugby, culminating in a game mainly centred between the two 20m lines. As Essex tried to find a way through, the Hertfordshire girls shut the door firmly in their faces, and the Essex girls put in some great tackles whenever Hertfordshire looked like finding the telling pass. It was going to take something special to break the deadlock – and Essex found the move late on in the first half. Kes managed to step her marker and made a break out of her own half. Wonderful supporting play from the Essex girls resulted in Natalie offloading the ball from contact to Frenchie, who ran a great line to score from 10m out. 5 – 0 at half time.
With a game as tight as this, the Essex girls showed some maturity by playing for territory during the second half. With a great display of kicking for touch, combined with not giving an inch when Hertfordshire attacked, the Essex girls ran down the clock to successfully defend their title.Congratulations and commiserations must be given to the Hertfordshire girls who gave Essex a run throughout the whole game – lets hope the Essex and Hertfordshire girls, combined with the Eastern Counties girls combine after Christmas into an awesome East Region side.Final score: Essex 5 Hertfordshire 0
Essex County Festival U18 Champions Essex
Runners-up Hertfordshire
And finally, a message of thanks for all the players, from all the Counties, who made the day worthwhile with excellent displays of rugby – the future looks very bright indeed!!
Phil French Ace Reporter Daily Bugle
Friday, November 16, 2007
Basford Tour 2008
Girls
Having been in touch with Mandy at the Yorkshire RFUW, we can now confirm that our Easter tour will be to the North East, and in particulatr the scenic coastline around Whitby.
The dates are the 21st to 24th March inc and the plan is to stay at a local youth Hostel for 3 nights and to play games on the Saturday and sunday against local teams.
More information will be posted in due course, in the mean time put your thinking heads on to come up with this years theme.
Ideas so far
Gavin Village People
Gavin Super Hero's
Gavin Any thing where he can dress up in spandex and tights.
Simon and Myself will be voting for a scooby doo theme ( cos we have the gear)!!!!!!
So get thinking the best idea wins a ???????????????????
Phil
Having been in touch with Mandy at the Yorkshire RFUW, we can now confirm that our Easter tour will be to the North East, and in particulatr the scenic coastline around Whitby.
The dates are the 21st to 24th March inc and the plan is to stay at a local youth Hostel for 3 nights and to play games on the Saturday and sunday against local teams.
More information will be posted in due course, in the mean time put your thinking heads on to come up with this years theme.
Ideas so far
Gavin Village People
Gavin Super Hero's
Gavin Any thing where he can dress up in spandex and tights.
Simon and Myself will be voting for a scooby doo theme ( cos we have the gear)!!!!!!
So get thinking the best idea wins a ???????????????????
Phil
Tuesday, November 6, 2007
Basford Girls shine at County
Sunday 4th November 07
Last Sunday saw the 2nd County Game of the season take place at Rochford Rugby Club.
Our own Basford girls turned out to represent Essex at Rochford against a very good Kent County side.
From the off, the game was played at a terrific pace with both teams playing some excellent rugby.No quarter was given by either side with some big tackles being made across the park.
Kent took the lead after some poor handling by the Essex side allowed them to break through the normally robust defense for Iona Todd to touch down. 5-0.
The Girls kept on playing to their game plan, and the forwards continued to make in roads into the Kent half of the park.
Following yet another turn over at the scrum, the ball was fed to mouse who pulled a perfect pass to Abby out on the wing who then raced through the Kent defence to touch down. 5-5, although the conversion was pulled wide the girls now had the upper hand.
The forwards were dominating the scrum with some excellent play by Ellie, Jess and Frances in the front row with Meg and Lucie providing that push from second row. Alex as usual was ever alert and quick of the back of the scrum to support Jessica at scrum half.
It would be fair to say that up to the moment when Frances went off injured we were totally in control of the scrum. However having lost Frances, we had to revert to uncontested scrums due to the lack of an experienced prop to replace her, and our physical advantage went along with frances.
The backs were seeing plenty of ball throughout the game and some strong running and tackling kept Kent at bay.
Maddy playing her first game at full back had the safest hands on the pitch and continually ran at the Kent side whenever she got a chance.The support play from Layla, Yasmin and Olivia in the centre allowed the girls to mount another attack on the Kent line and some deft handling from Ellie, Meg and Lucie fed the ball to Alex who broke through to go over for the 2nd and what proved to be the winning try. 10-5.
Kent did not give up and a mistake by the Essex girls from a scrum gave Iona Todd from Kent the opportunity to run at the line for what would have been an equalising try. However a deft little tap tackle on the ankle of Iona by Yasmin caused her to stumble forward and spill the ball.
The referee deciding that there wasnt time to scrum down, blew the whistle to bring to an end a fantastic display of rugby and a well deserved win for the Essex Girls.
After a brief respite, the girls took to the field again to play against a Kent Development side who had travelled over with their A team.
Although the first game had taken its toll on the girls, with Frances being unable to carry on and Anna (Westcliff) having to leave early, the girls played on against 13man Kent with 12 players, but proved far too strong for their opponents and ran out eventual winners 51-0.
A big thanks to Kent for coming over today to give the Girls what was undoubtedly the hardest game they had faced this season.
(Essex Squad Basford Girls)
Megan (Capt), Ellie, Alex, Jess H, Frances,Lucie, Jessica, Yasmin, Layla, Olivia, Mouse, Maddy, and Abby.
Tries: Abby, Alex 10-5
Tries: Lucie (2), Alex(2), Jessica, Layla, Mouse, Abbie(2)
Cons: Yasmin (3) 51-0
Well done to all those girls.
Last Sunday saw the 2nd County Game of the season take place at Rochford Rugby Club.
Our own Basford girls turned out to represent Essex at Rochford against a very good Kent County side.
From the off, the game was played at a terrific pace with both teams playing some excellent rugby.No quarter was given by either side with some big tackles being made across the park.
Kent took the lead after some poor handling by the Essex side allowed them to break through the normally robust defense for Iona Todd to touch down. 5-0.
The Girls kept on playing to their game plan, and the forwards continued to make in roads into the Kent half of the park.
Following yet another turn over at the scrum, the ball was fed to mouse who pulled a perfect pass to Abby out on the wing who then raced through the Kent defence to touch down. 5-5, although the conversion was pulled wide the girls now had the upper hand.
The forwards were dominating the scrum with some excellent play by Ellie, Jess and Frances in the front row with Meg and Lucie providing that push from second row. Alex as usual was ever alert and quick of the back of the scrum to support Jessica at scrum half.
It would be fair to say that up to the moment when Frances went off injured we were totally in control of the scrum. However having lost Frances, we had to revert to uncontested scrums due to the lack of an experienced prop to replace her, and our physical advantage went along with frances.
The backs were seeing plenty of ball throughout the game and some strong running and tackling kept Kent at bay.
Maddy playing her first game at full back had the safest hands on the pitch and continually ran at the Kent side whenever she got a chance.The support play from Layla, Yasmin and Olivia in the centre allowed the girls to mount another attack on the Kent line and some deft handling from Ellie, Meg and Lucie fed the ball to Alex who broke through to go over for the 2nd and what proved to be the winning try. 10-5.
Kent did not give up and a mistake by the Essex girls from a scrum gave Iona Todd from Kent the opportunity to run at the line for what would have been an equalising try. However a deft little tap tackle on the ankle of Iona by Yasmin caused her to stumble forward and spill the ball.
The referee deciding that there wasnt time to scrum down, blew the whistle to bring to an end a fantastic display of rugby and a well deserved win for the Essex Girls.
After a brief respite, the girls took to the field again to play against a Kent Development side who had travelled over with their A team.
Although the first game had taken its toll on the girls, with Frances being unable to carry on and Anna (Westcliff) having to leave early, the girls played on against 13man Kent with 12 players, but proved far too strong for their opponents and ran out eventual winners 51-0.
A big thanks to Kent for coming over today to give the Girls what was undoubtedly the hardest game they had faced this season.
(Essex Squad Basford Girls)
Megan (Capt), Ellie, Alex, Jess H, Frances,Lucie, Jessica, Yasmin, Layla, Olivia, Mouse, Maddy, and Abby.
Tries: Abby, Alex 10-5
Tries: Lucie (2), Alex(2), Jessica, Layla, Mouse, Abbie(2)
Cons: Yasmin (3) 51-0
Well done to all those girls.
Monday, October 29, 2007
Basford U18's v Worthing
Sunday 28th October 2007
Overcast, grey, damp and showers – much more like the weather we come to expect when playing and watching rugby!
Rochford were pleased to welcome the girls and coaches from Worthing RFC for this first meeting of the clubs outside of the Worthing 10’s Festival – the Basford girls really appreciate the long journey made by Worthing and hope they enjoyed the day.
The game was played with 14 a side, with Worthing taking the kick off to start the game. Basford immediately started to press forward and took the ball into the Worthing half. Unfortunately, an intercepted pass led to the Worthing no 12 making the most of her pace, and she streaked away for the first score of the game with the Basford girls left for dead. An excellent kick took the extra points and Worthing led 0 – 7.
Going behind seemed to spur the Basford girls on and after two tries being ‘held up’ by some great Worthing defence, Sophie managed to get the ball down for the first Basford score 5 – 7.
A period of play between the 20m lines followed until the Basford forwards showed their dominance, pressing forward until Natalie managed to break the Worthing defence to score 10 – 7.
Basford continued to press forward through their pack, with the Basford ‘wing prop’ Sarah C making a storming run with three defenders hanging onto her! Some excellent Worthing defence led to another three opportunities being ‘held up’, until Sophie again, running from scrum half, managed to score her second 15 – 7, which was promptly followed by her hat trick (Cheers for the jug Dom!) 20 – 7 at half time.
The second half started with Worthing again being quicker out the blocks and providing the first score of the half 20 – 12.
Again this spurred the Basford girls on, and they pressed forward winning a penalty on the Worthing 20m line. The ball came out to the backs, with Frenchie making a good run up to the 5m line. The ball eventually came out to Shivy who crossed the line for a Basford score 25 – 12.
Basford continued to dominate territory and following a line-out on the 5m line, Natalie run in to score her second 30 – 12.
The Basford girls then produced the best move of the game – just outside their own 20m, Charlie took the ball in to contact, gave a great off-load to Frenchie who ran 35m, popped the ball to Sarah C, who then gave the ball for Natalie to score her hat trick (Cheers for the jug Tony!) – a great move and a great try 35 – 12.
Having done it once, Basford repeated the feat with another great move that led to Sarah C scoring a much deserved try, to make the final score 40 – 12.
Again, many thanks to Worthing for making the journey, and well done to the Worthing girls for putting up such stout resistance – we all hope that the player who had to be carried off after being injured in the last tackle of the game makes a speedy recovery. We look forward to meeting you all again later in the season.
Final result: Rochford / Basildon 40 – Worthing RFC 12.
Overcast, grey, damp and showers – much more like the weather we come to expect when playing and watching rugby!
Rochford were pleased to welcome the girls and coaches from Worthing RFC for this first meeting of the clubs outside of the Worthing 10’s Festival – the Basford girls really appreciate the long journey made by Worthing and hope they enjoyed the day.
The game was played with 14 a side, with Worthing taking the kick off to start the game. Basford immediately started to press forward and took the ball into the Worthing half. Unfortunately, an intercepted pass led to the Worthing no 12 making the most of her pace, and she streaked away for the first score of the game with the Basford girls left for dead. An excellent kick took the extra points and Worthing led 0 – 7.
Going behind seemed to spur the Basford girls on and after two tries being ‘held up’ by some great Worthing defence, Sophie managed to get the ball down for the first Basford score 5 – 7.
A period of play between the 20m lines followed until the Basford forwards showed their dominance, pressing forward until Natalie managed to break the Worthing defence to score 10 – 7.
Basford continued to press forward through their pack, with the Basford ‘wing prop’ Sarah C making a storming run with three defenders hanging onto her! Some excellent Worthing defence led to another three opportunities being ‘held up’, until Sophie again, running from scrum half, managed to score her second 15 – 7, which was promptly followed by her hat trick (Cheers for the jug Dom!) 20 – 7 at half time.
The second half started with Worthing again being quicker out the blocks and providing the first score of the half 20 – 12.
Again this spurred the Basford girls on, and they pressed forward winning a penalty on the Worthing 20m line. The ball came out to the backs, with Frenchie making a good run up to the 5m line. The ball eventually came out to Shivy who crossed the line for a Basford score 25 – 12.
Basford continued to dominate territory and following a line-out on the 5m line, Natalie run in to score her second 30 – 12.
The Basford girls then produced the best move of the game – just outside their own 20m, Charlie took the ball in to contact, gave a great off-load to Frenchie who ran 35m, popped the ball to Sarah C, who then gave the ball for Natalie to score her hat trick (Cheers for the jug Tony!) – a great move and a great try 35 – 12.
Having done it once, Basford repeated the feat with another great move that led to Sarah C scoring a much deserved try, to make the final score 40 – 12.
Again, many thanks to Worthing for making the journey, and well done to the Worthing girls for putting up such stout resistance – we all hope that the player who had to be carried off after being injured in the last tackle of the game makes a speedy recovery. We look forward to meeting you all again later in the season.
Final result: Rochford / Basildon 40 – Worthing RFC 12.
Sunday, October 28, 2007
U15's v Worthing.
Despite the weather turning just before kick off, the U15's today put on an excellent display of team rugby.
We were pleased to welcome Worthing along to Rochford today and although we had taken part in their annual 10's Tournament for the past two years, we had never actually come up against them in a game.
We also welcomed two new players into the team today, Jessica (Clacton) and Olivia(Romford).
It would seem that word of the U15's ability is spreading, and we are starting to attract new players from around the county.
With the surface being greasy and the continuous drizzle making handling difficult the forwards played a tight game, keeping the ball in the pack and driving towards the Worthing line.
Once the forwards had gained the territorial advantage, the ball was swiftly fed to the backs who ran in 12 tries to set up a convincing win over their opponents.
The backs making use of the width of the pitch ran at spaces in the Worthing defense time and time again, and only some stirling defense by Worthing stopped the girls running up an even bigger score.
The traffic was not all one way and only some excellent defending meant that the girls again kept a clean sheet.
Well done to all the girls today it was a terrific performance from all of you.
Team
Megan (C)
Ellie
Mouse
Alex
Frances
Jessica
Yasmin
Layla
Maddy
Lucie
Abby
Olivia
Scorers
Tries: Layla(2), Ellie(2), Frances, Yasmin, Maddy, Lucie(2), Jessica(2), Olivia
Cons: Lucie (2) Yasmin(5)
Well done to all a terrific team display.
We were pleased to welcome Worthing along to Rochford today and although we had taken part in their annual 10's Tournament for the past two years, we had never actually come up against them in a game.
We also welcomed two new players into the team today, Jessica (Clacton) and Olivia(Romford).
It would seem that word of the U15's ability is spreading, and we are starting to attract new players from around the county.
With the surface being greasy and the continuous drizzle making handling difficult the forwards played a tight game, keeping the ball in the pack and driving towards the Worthing line.
Once the forwards had gained the territorial advantage, the ball was swiftly fed to the backs who ran in 12 tries to set up a convincing win over their opponents.
The backs making use of the width of the pitch ran at spaces in the Worthing defense time and time again, and only some stirling defense by Worthing stopped the girls running up an even bigger score.
The traffic was not all one way and only some excellent defending meant that the girls again kept a clean sheet.
Well done to all the girls today it was a terrific performance from all of you.
Team
Megan (C)
Ellie
Mouse
Alex
Frances
Jessica
Yasmin
Layla
Maddy
Lucie
Abby
Olivia
Scorers
Tries: Layla(2), Ellie(2), Frances, Yasmin, Maddy, Lucie(2), Jessica(2), Olivia
Cons: Lucie (2) Yasmin(5)
Well done to all a terrific team display.
Wednesday, October 24, 2007
Memberships
Could all Girls please ensure that they have paid their club memberships to either Basildon or Rochford as without this you are not insured.
For those girls who are joining Basildon if you havent already had a membership pack please speak to Gavin who has plenty of spare packs.
For Rochford, please speak to either Tina or Paula.
If you do not have a membership you will not be able to play, as you will not be insured.
For those girls who are joining Basildon if you havent already had a membership pack please speak to Gavin who has plenty of spare packs.
For Rochford, please speak to either Tina or Paula.
If you do not have a membership you will not be able to play, as you will not be insured.
Sunday 28th Oct 07
This coming sunday (28th) we are at "Home" to Worthing.
Venue: Rochford RFC
K/O 1.30PM
Meet 12.30 pm
Could all girls please let either Paula or myself know if you are available for this game.
No1's are required for after the match.
Thanks
Phil
Venue: Rochford RFC
K/O 1.30PM
Meet 12.30 pm
Could all girls please let either Paula or myself know if you are available for this game.
No1's are required for after the match.
Thanks
Phil
Sunday, October 14, 2007
U15's @Rochford Festival
Well done to all the girls in the U15's squad who retained their hold on the Rochford Hundred Charity trophy this year.
The girls played 4 tough games and came away worthy winners.
In the first game against Aylesford B some excellent play by the forwards kept their opponents on the back foot allowing the backs to run in 6 tries, 3 of which were converted.
Tries: Alex 2, Jess, Abby 2, Lucie
Cons Lucie 3
The second game against Aylesford A proved to be a bruising encounter and although going behind to an early try from Aylesford, the girls fought back and crossed the line 3 times to ensure the 2nd victory of the day.
Tries: Alex, Layla, Ellie
Cons: Lucie 3
The 3rd Game against Hertford saw a changed side take to the field and both the backs and forwards played extremely well. The Basford girls again went behind to an early try but rallied to run in 8 tries in response
Tries: Ellie, Anna 2, Mouse, Abby 2, Alex, Yaz
Cons: Yaz 6
In the final game a draw would be suffice to retain the trophy but the girls wanting to finish on a high came up against old foes Welwyn with whom they have enjoyed many a fine battle.
For a change it did not take going behind to kick the girls into action, in fact they tore into welwyn from the off and quickly went over for the 1st of 5 tries.
Welwyn hit back with a fine effort from Courtney but on the day the Basford girls were just too strong.
Tries: Alex 2, Lucie, Abby, Anna.
Cons: yaz, Frances, Lucie
Well done to all the girls
Megan, Alex, Abby, Frances, Yasmin, Jess, Layla, Ellie, Lucie, Maddy, Alice,Mouse and Anna.
The girls played 4 tough games and came away worthy winners.
In the first game against Aylesford B some excellent play by the forwards kept their opponents on the back foot allowing the backs to run in 6 tries, 3 of which were converted.
Tries: Alex 2, Jess, Abby 2, Lucie
Cons Lucie 3
The second game against Aylesford A proved to be a bruising encounter and although going behind to an early try from Aylesford, the girls fought back and crossed the line 3 times to ensure the 2nd victory of the day.
Tries: Alex, Layla, Ellie
Cons: Lucie 3
The 3rd Game against Hertford saw a changed side take to the field and both the backs and forwards played extremely well. The Basford girls again went behind to an early try but rallied to run in 8 tries in response
Tries: Ellie, Anna 2, Mouse, Abby 2, Alex, Yaz
Cons: Yaz 6
In the final game a draw would be suffice to retain the trophy but the girls wanting to finish on a high came up against old foes Welwyn with whom they have enjoyed many a fine battle.
For a change it did not take going behind to kick the girls into action, in fact they tore into welwyn from the off and quickly went over for the 1st of 5 tries.
Welwyn hit back with a fine effort from Courtney but on the day the Basford girls were just too strong.
Tries: Alex 2, Lucie, Abby, Anna.
Cons: yaz, Frances, Lucie
Well done to all the girls
Megan, Alex, Abby, Frances, Yasmin, Jess, Layla, Ellie, Lucie, Maddy, Alice,Mouse and Anna.
5th Annual Rochford Charity Rugby Festival
A warm sunny day in downtown Rochford was the setting for an excellent days rugby at both age groups.
Todays festival was in aid of the Little Havens Childrens Hospice in Thundersley, and in keeping with previous years there was a good turn out from the various clubs to ensure that as well as a full day of rugby on the board the club were able to raise much neededfunds for a well deserving charity.
A big thanks to Pete and Tina and ALL at Rochford who worked hard to ensure the day was a success.
Todays festival was in aid of the Little Havens Childrens Hospice in Thundersley, and in keeping with previous years there was a good turn out from the various clubs to ensure that as well as a full day of rugby on the board the club were able to raise much neededfunds for a well deserving charity.
A big thanks to Pete and Tina and ALL at Rochford who worked hard to ensure the day was a success.
U15's
Results
Aylesford Bulls B 0 Basford 36
Aylesford Bulls A 29 Hertford 17
Welwyn Warriors 31 Aylesford Bulls B 10
Basford 21 Aylesford Bulls A 10
Hertford 0 Welwyn Warriors 28
Aylesford Bulls A 10 Aylesford Bulls B 15
Basford 52 Hertford 7
Welwyn Warriors 19 Aylesford Bulls A 19
Aylesford Bulls B 25 Hertford 10
Basford 31 Welwyn Warriors 7
Table Standings
Basford 19 points
Welwyn 13 points
Aylesford A 10points
Aylesford B 9 points
Hertford 4 points
Congratulations to the Basford girls who retain the trophy for the second year.
U18's
All those sides taking part played some exceptional games of rugby which were as good an advertisment for Girls rubgy as you will see.
Unfortunately the individual team scores are not available at this time but the final standings in the group as as follows.
Final Standings
Basford 23 points
Westcliff 22 points
Welbeck College 15 points
Letchworth 15 points
Aylesford 13 points
Sudbury 12 points
Hertford 1 point
Unfortunately Hertford were forced to withdraw due to injuries early on in the competition
Congratulations to the Basford Girls for winning their age group.
Thursday, October 4, 2007
Basford Girls retain TDG places.
U18 Talent Development Group (TDG) 2007/08
The RFUW have announced its 2007/08 Talent Development Group, who were selected following nomination by their Regional Coaches to the High Performance Academy’s held this summer.
The Under 18 TDG of 35 includes players, 3 of which are Basildon/Rochford Players. 2 Basildon Players, Emily Scott and Sophie Russell, have been re-selected and they have been joined this Season by teammate Natalie McClarnon. The TDG will participate in sessions held both nationally and locally throughout the season.
The TDG focuses on individual player and athletic development through core rugby skills and by providing players with an understanding and knowledge of the requirements to play rugby at the highest level.
Whilst not all players involved with the TDG will progress to present England in future years, the RFUW performance staff anticipate that the TDG will prove to be a high quality, player centred environment from which future world class international players progress and develop.
The RFUW have announced its 2007/08 Talent Development Group, who were selected following nomination by their Regional Coaches to the High Performance Academy’s held this summer.
The Under 18 TDG of 35 includes players, 3 of which are Basildon/Rochford Players. 2 Basildon Players, Emily Scott and Sophie Russell, have been re-selected and they have been joined this Season by teammate Natalie McClarnon. The TDG will participate in sessions held both nationally and locally throughout the season.
The TDG focuses on individual player and athletic development through core rugby skills and by providing players with an understanding and knowledge of the requirements to play rugby at the highest level.
Whilst not all players involved with the TDG will progress to present England in future years, the RFUW performance staff anticipate that the TDG will prove to be a high quality, player centred environment from which future world class international players progress and develop.
Wednesday, September 26, 2007
U15's Sunday 23rd September
Along with the U18's, the girls travelled the short distance around the M25 to Crawley RFC.
The U15's took part in a double header against Crawley/East Grinstead and then London Irish.
First game saw the Basford girls up against Crawley and East Grinstead. Although the end result of 49-0 to Basford looks like a one sided game, the girls from Crawley put up a terrific fight and caused the Basford defence some hairy moments.
Some excellent play by the forwards enabled the backs to find spaces in the Crawley line to go over for their tries.
Try scorers on the day Mouse, Alex, Ellie, Megan Frances, Lucie and Maddy (apologies if I have missed you off)
The 2nd game against London Irish followed after a short 10 min break.
The girls from London Irish were predominantly the same girls who last season represented Cranberleigh.
The clubs met twice last year in the Herts 7's final and the National 7's final and on both occassions the Cranberleigh girls edged it.
Sundays game was no different from the first two encounters with both sides testing each other from the start.
Some excellent play from the Basford forwards kept Irish pinned in their own half for most of the 1st half with the Basford backs continually running at the Irish try line only to be thwarted by Super Alex in the Irish defence..
Just before half time, a speculative punt up field from the Irish found the Basford girls defending on their 5m line.
A misplaced clearance gave Irish a run at the line and they went over to open the scoring following up with the conversion..
Basford kept up the pressure and were rewarded with an excellent try of their own to go in 7-5 down at the break.
The second half carried on in the same vein, with Basford giving no quarter and harrasing the Irish forwards.
As the game edged to its conclusion another long punt upfield from Irish put the ball into the final 5m and it was the fresher legs of the Irish winger who narrowly beat the Basford defence to the ball to kick it over the line and drop on it for the try.
The final score of 12-5 mirrored the National 7's result, but Basford can count themselves extremely unlucky to not have walked away with their 1st win over the Girls at London Irish.
A well rounded performance on the day has shown that there is plenty to come from the girls this season, starting with the defence of their Rochford 7's title in a couple of weeks.
Thanks to all at Crawley rugby club for your hospitality and to both teams for a terric days rugby.
The U15's took part in a double header against Crawley/East Grinstead and then London Irish.
First game saw the Basford girls up against Crawley and East Grinstead. Although the end result of 49-0 to Basford looks like a one sided game, the girls from Crawley put up a terrific fight and caused the Basford defence some hairy moments.
Some excellent play by the forwards enabled the backs to find spaces in the Crawley line to go over for their tries.
Try scorers on the day Mouse, Alex, Ellie, Megan Frances, Lucie and Maddy (apologies if I have missed you off)
The 2nd game against London Irish followed after a short 10 min break.
The girls from London Irish were predominantly the same girls who last season represented Cranberleigh.
The clubs met twice last year in the Herts 7's final and the National 7's final and on both occassions the Cranberleigh girls edged it.
Sundays game was no different from the first two encounters with both sides testing each other from the start.
Some excellent play from the Basford forwards kept Irish pinned in their own half for most of the 1st half with the Basford backs continually running at the Irish try line only to be thwarted by Super Alex in the Irish defence..
Just before half time, a speculative punt up field from the Irish found the Basford girls defending on their 5m line.
A misplaced clearance gave Irish a run at the line and they went over to open the scoring following up with the conversion..
Basford kept up the pressure and were rewarded with an excellent try of their own to go in 7-5 down at the break.
The second half carried on in the same vein, with Basford giving no quarter and harrasing the Irish forwards.
As the game edged to its conclusion another long punt upfield from Irish put the ball into the final 5m and it was the fresher legs of the Irish winger who narrowly beat the Basford defence to the ball to kick it over the line and drop on it for the try.
The final score of 12-5 mirrored the National 7's result, but Basford can count themselves extremely unlucky to not have walked away with their 1st win over the Girls at London Irish.
A well rounded performance on the day has shown that there is plenty to come from the girls this season, starting with the defence of their Rochford 7's title in a couple of weeks.
Thanks to all at Crawley rugby club for your hospitality and to both teams for a terric days rugby.
Monday, September 24, 2007
Blog Header
Something about the Basford* blog (see below) has been bothering me... and its the header.
"Play with the spirit of the game. Enjoy, make lasting friendships, but above all win!!!"
There is a degree of tongue-in-cheekness about this, obviously, but even so it has had me thinking... "but above all win"... is winning really the most important thing?
The above extract has been lifted from the excellent Letchworth blog.
As John says, is winning the most important thing.
Enjoyment and making lasting friendships is a vital part of the whole rugby scene, to be admired by your peers for your achievements and the way in which you conduct yourselves is sufficient reward in itself.
However how many people remember the runners up in competitions.
So is winning the be all and end all, is it more important to participate than to win.
I suppose each person has their own views on the subject.
Its your blog so have your say,
a) is winning more important than just taking part.
b) does the header give a misleading impression of how we participate in the sport.
Before you rush into print however please read Johns article on the Letchworth Blog and digest exactly what he is saying.
It is not a critisism just a question.
It is easy to pass this off as sour grapes following the Basford Victory last week, however John has raised a valid point and it is worthwhile looking at how people percieve participation in the game.
Over to you.
"Play with the spirit of the game. Enjoy, make lasting friendships, but above all win!!!"
There is a degree of tongue-in-cheekness about this, obviously, but even so it has had me thinking... "but above all win"... is winning really the most important thing?
The above extract has been lifted from the excellent Letchworth blog.
As John says, is winning the most important thing.
Enjoyment and making lasting friendships is a vital part of the whole rugby scene, to be admired by your peers for your achievements and the way in which you conduct yourselves is sufficient reward in itself.
However how many people remember the runners up in competitions.
So is winning the be all and end all, is it more important to participate than to win.
I suppose each person has their own views on the subject.
Its your blog so have your say,
a) is winning more important than just taking part.
b) does the header give a misleading impression of how we participate in the sport.
Before you rush into print however please read Johns article on the Letchworth Blog and digest exactly what he is saying.
It is not a critisism just a question.
It is easy to pass this off as sour grapes following the Basford Victory last week, however John has raised a valid point and it is worthwhile looking at how people percieve participation in the game.
Over to you.
Basford v Crawley
Basford Girls U18
Vs.
Combined Crawley / East Grinstead Girls U18
Sunday 23rd September 2007
Match report courtesy of Phil French
Another girls rugby match, another sunny day! Even Mr. Carmen turned up! (only to show off his new car though!)
The game was played with 14 a side - both teams blooding some new players – and very well they all did.
Crawley kicked off and with a sign of things to come, the Basford girls pressured the home side right from the start - forcing a scrum 5m out on their first attack. The Crawley girls tried to defend, but Basford’s pressure forced another scrum 5m from the line. The scoring was opened when a Crawley player mishandled the ball and Scottie picked up and dived over the line 0 – 5.
From the restart, Crawley brought the ball in to Basford’s half and forced a line out 5m from the Basford line. The line out went Basfords way and they worked the ball from the danger area with Sarah McB making a great run to over the half way line. The ball was popped to Scottie who completed the length of the pitch for her second score 0 – 10.
Basford kept the pressure on with most of the play taking place within Crawley’s half. Crawley cleared to touch and from the resulting line out, the ball was passed across the backs for Sarah McB to touch down 0 – 15.
In what was rapidly becoming a one-sided game, after the restart the ball was recovered by Basford, and passed to Frenchie who broke through the line with a run of 40m. She popped the ball the Shivvy (note the spelling!) who finished the move with ease 0 – 20. Scottie converted 0 – 22.
With Basford’s forwards dominating the set piece and linking well with the backs, there was still time in the half for another score – Frenchie supplying yet another telling off-load for Scottie to score her third try of the game, (yes – that was a jug Gav had to buy!), with a run from 20m out 0 – 27. Scottie again converted 0 – 29 and the half time whistle blew.
The second half started much as the first ended with Basford pressing forward and Crawley having to kick into touch to clear their lines. From the line out, the ball came to you-know-who, who ran over the line from 5m out, and then converted her own score 0 – 36.
Basford were starting to enjoy their game with great play from both the forwards and backs. Special mention to Cherelle, who took off down the wing with a look on her face that said ‘I don’t do running, will someone come and get this bloody ball off me’. Her team mates obliged but not until she had run for 40m or so!
Basford forced Crawley to clear to touch again and from the line out, after a good set of passes, the ball came to Sarah McB,who went over for her second of the game 0 – 41.
After another 5 minutes of Basford pressure, up stepped you-know-who again, and went over for her fifth try of the game 0 – 46.
The Basford girls wouldn’t let the pressure off and this time Natalie broke off the back of a scrum to go over from 5m out 0 – 51. Scottie kicked the extras 0 – 53.
Before the end of the game, the forwards decided they would have a try, and after some excellent forward play, Sarah C went over with a dive from 2m out 0 – 58. Scottie again converted 0 – 60.
As a spectator, I’d like to congratulate all the girls from both teams for the spirit in which the game was played – hard but fair. Special thanks to the girls from Crawley / E Grinstead for not letting their heads drop and for making a game of it right until the final whistle – well done – we look forward to meeting you again later in the season.
And from a Rochford / Basildon perspective, a special ‘well done’ to Kate, Natasha, Sam, Amy, and Katie on making their debut for the team – I hope you all enjoyed it and look forward to seeing you play many more times!
One last word – Scottie! 5 trys, 5 conversions – fantastic game!
Final result: Crawley / E Grinstead RFC 0 Rochford / Basildon 60.
Vs.
Combined Crawley / East Grinstead Girls U18
Sunday 23rd September 2007
Match report courtesy of Phil French
Another girls rugby match, another sunny day! Even Mr. Carmen turned up! (only to show off his new car though!)
The game was played with 14 a side - both teams blooding some new players – and very well they all did.
Crawley kicked off and with a sign of things to come, the Basford girls pressured the home side right from the start - forcing a scrum 5m out on their first attack. The Crawley girls tried to defend, but Basford’s pressure forced another scrum 5m from the line. The scoring was opened when a Crawley player mishandled the ball and Scottie picked up and dived over the line 0 – 5.
From the restart, Crawley brought the ball in to Basford’s half and forced a line out 5m from the Basford line. The line out went Basfords way and they worked the ball from the danger area with Sarah McB making a great run to over the half way line. The ball was popped to Scottie who completed the length of the pitch for her second score 0 – 10.
Basford kept the pressure on with most of the play taking place within Crawley’s half. Crawley cleared to touch and from the resulting line out, the ball was passed across the backs for Sarah McB to touch down 0 – 15.
In what was rapidly becoming a one-sided game, after the restart the ball was recovered by Basford, and passed to Frenchie who broke through the line with a run of 40m. She popped the ball the Shivvy (note the spelling!) who finished the move with ease 0 – 20. Scottie converted 0 – 22.
With Basford’s forwards dominating the set piece and linking well with the backs, there was still time in the half for another score – Frenchie supplying yet another telling off-load for Scottie to score her third try of the game, (yes – that was a jug Gav had to buy!), with a run from 20m out 0 – 27. Scottie again converted 0 – 29 and the half time whistle blew.
The second half started much as the first ended with Basford pressing forward and Crawley having to kick into touch to clear their lines. From the line out, the ball came to you-know-who, who ran over the line from 5m out, and then converted her own score 0 – 36.
Basford were starting to enjoy their game with great play from both the forwards and backs. Special mention to Cherelle, who took off down the wing with a look on her face that said ‘I don’t do running, will someone come and get this bloody ball off me’. Her team mates obliged but not until she had run for 40m or so!
Basford forced Crawley to clear to touch again and from the line out, after a good set of passes, the ball came to Sarah McB,who went over for her second of the game 0 – 41.
After another 5 minutes of Basford pressure, up stepped you-know-who again, and went over for her fifth try of the game 0 – 46.
The Basford girls wouldn’t let the pressure off and this time Natalie broke off the back of a scrum to go over from 5m out 0 – 51. Scottie kicked the extras 0 – 53.
Before the end of the game, the forwards decided they would have a try, and after some excellent forward play, Sarah C went over with a dive from 2m out 0 – 58. Scottie again converted 0 – 60.
As a spectator, I’d like to congratulate all the girls from both teams for the spirit in which the game was played – hard but fair. Special thanks to the girls from Crawley / E Grinstead for not letting their heads drop and for making a game of it right until the final whistle – well done – we look forward to meeting you again later in the season.
And from a Rochford / Basildon perspective, a special ‘well done’ to Kate, Natasha, Sam, Amy, and Katie on making their debut for the team – I hope you all enjoyed it and look forward to seeing you play many more times!
One last word – Scottie! 5 trys, 5 conversions – fantastic game!
Final result: Crawley / E Grinstead RFC 0 Rochford / Basildon 60.
Tuesday, September 18, 2007
Basford v Letchworth
Last Sundays match report courtesy of Phil French.
Thanks to Letchworth for stepping in at the last moment to give both teams a vital run out before the season starts in earnest.
Sunday 16th September 2007
On a sun drenched Sunday morning, the Basford girls made the journey to Letchworh, keen to get the new season underway.
Due to injuries and the tail end of the holiday season, the game was played 11 vs 11, meaning there was space on the pitch for both sides to show what they could do.
Scotty kicked off for Basford with a wonderful kick that meant Letchworth had to touch the ball down behind their posts, giving Basford a 5m scrum, and putting the home side under immediate pressure. From the scrum the ball went wide and Letchworth managed to put the player in touch for a lineout. Basford again applied pressure and from another 5m scrum, the ball was passed to Chivvy who ran for the line only to spill the ball as she crossed it – slight case of cobwebs having to be blown away from the summer break. Still it was a sign of things to come, and within 2 minutes Charlie, playing as stand-in scrum half, forced her way over the line to score the first try of the season 5 – 0. From the kick off, Basford again went on the attack, with the forwards winning good ball and working their way up the field. From 35m out, Cherelle ‘I don’t do running’, broke free and ran in to score under the posts. Scotty duly slotted the conversion over 12 – 0. From the kick off, the Basford forwards again worked the ball up the pitch for Charlie to run in from 10m to score her second of the match. Scotty did the business with the kick again 19 – 0.
The Letchworth girls were looking a bit shell shocked at this point – they had a number of key players missing – but credit to them, they rallied round and put up some sterling defence to keep the Basford girls out of their 22.
Unfortunately, it was about this time that the Basford backs decided that they wanted a bit of ball, and following a series of good passing moves, Sarah McB ran in for a try 24 – 0.
Basford were still applying pressure whenever Letchworth had the ball, and after wining a scrum against the head, the Basford forwards and backs worked in perfect harmony to allow Frenchie to run in to score under the posts. Scotty kicked the extras 31 – 0 at half time.
After half time, there came a period of play that, we hope, shows the shape of things to come. The Basford forwards took the ball into contact, it was re-cycled, and shipped out along the line, with the backs looping around each other for support, and resulting in Sarah McB scoring her second try. A fantastic move from their own 22 in which all 11 players were involved! 36 – 0.
It must have felt good to the players, because 2 minutes later, they did it again, with Frenchie benefiting from receiving the final pass to score 41 – 0.
There was just enough time left for the forwards to show a bit more of their power and dominance with Sarah C going over to make the final score 46 – 0.
The Basford coaches wanted to point out that they were extremely impressed with the way that the whole team were involved in the game, and the fact that the forwards and backs functioned as a unit, with effective communication and support being made available when it was needed. If this is how the girls can play in the first match of the season, how good could they be with a few more matches under their belts! It looks like it may be a good season ahead!
Team:
Sarah C (fastest ‘wingprop’ in the world),
Robyn (good supporting role),
Cherelle( I don’t do running but I can if I must!),
Gemma (great scrumaging),
Alice (pops up everywhere),
Natalie (excellent distribution),
Charlie (is there a position she can’t play?),
Scotty (she’s here, she’s there, she’s every bloody where)
Sarah McB (great running!),
Chivvy (I think that’s boosted your confidence! Excellent!)
Frenchie (just loving it!!)
Final result: Letchford RFC 0 Rochford / Basildon 46.
Thanks to Letchworth for stepping in at the last moment to give both teams a vital run out before the season starts in earnest.
Sunday 16th September 2007
On a sun drenched Sunday morning, the Basford girls made the journey to Letchworh, keen to get the new season underway.
Due to injuries and the tail end of the holiday season, the game was played 11 vs 11, meaning there was space on the pitch for both sides to show what they could do.
Scotty kicked off for Basford with a wonderful kick that meant Letchworth had to touch the ball down behind their posts, giving Basford a 5m scrum, and putting the home side under immediate pressure. From the scrum the ball went wide and Letchworth managed to put the player in touch for a lineout. Basford again applied pressure and from another 5m scrum, the ball was passed to Chivvy who ran for the line only to spill the ball as she crossed it – slight case of cobwebs having to be blown away from the summer break. Still it was a sign of things to come, and within 2 minutes Charlie, playing as stand-in scrum half, forced her way over the line to score the first try of the season 5 – 0. From the kick off, Basford again went on the attack, with the forwards winning good ball and working their way up the field. From 35m out, Cherelle ‘I don’t do running’, broke free and ran in to score under the posts. Scotty duly slotted the conversion over 12 – 0. From the kick off, the Basford forwards again worked the ball up the pitch for Charlie to run in from 10m to score her second of the match. Scotty did the business with the kick again 19 – 0.
The Letchworth girls were looking a bit shell shocked at this point – they had a number of key players missing – but credit to them, they rallied round and put up some sterling defence to keep the Basford girls out of their 22.
Unfortunately, it was about this time that the Basford backs decided that they wanted a bit of ball, and following a series of good passing moves, Sarah McB ran in for a try 24 – 0.
Basford were still applying pressure whenever Letchworth had the ball, and after wining a scrum against the head, the Basford forwards and backs worked in perfect harmony to allow Frenchie to run in to score under the posts. Scotty kicked the extras 31 – 0 at half time.
After half time, there came a period of play that, we hope, shows the shape of things to come. The Basford forwards took the ball into contact, it was re-cycled, and shipped out along the line, with the backs looping around each other for support, and resulting in Sarah McB scoring her second try. A fantastic move from their own 22 in which all 11 players were involved! 36 – 0.
It must have felt good to the players, because 2 minutes later, they did it again, with Frenchie benefiting from receiving the final pass to score 41 – 0.
There was just enough time left for the forwards to show a bit more of their power and dominance with Sarah C going over to make the final score 46 – 0.
The Basford coaches wanted to point out that they were extremely impressed with the way that the whole team were involved in the game, and the fact that the forwards and backs functioned as a unit, with effective communication and support being made available when it was needed. If this is how the girls can play in the first match of the season, how good could they be with a few more matches under their belts! It looks like it may be a good season ahead!
Team:
Sarah C (fastest ‘wingprop’ in the world),
Robyn (good supporting role),
Cherelle( I don’t do running but I can if I must!),
Gemma (great scrumaging),
Alice (pops up everywhere),
Natalie (excellent distribution),
Charlie (is there a position she can’t play?),
Scotty (she’s here, she’s there, she’s every bloody where)
Sarah McB (great running!),
Chivvy (I think that’s boosted your confidence! Excellent!)
Frenchie (just loving it!!)
Final result: Letchford RFC 0 Rochford / Basildon 46.
Club Fixtures 23/9/07
Ladies
There is now a change to this weekends fixture.
We are travelling to Crawley Rugby club
U15's will play East Grinstead & London Irish
U18's will play East Grinstead.
We need to be at East Grinstead by 12.30 LATEST
PLEASE CONFIRM YOUR AVAILABILITY.
Crawley Rugby Club
Willoughby Fields
Highfield Ave
Crawley
Surrey
Please arrive in your kit, changing will be sparse as the minis will be finishing when we arrive.
All players to wear No1's after the game
There is now a change to this weekends fixture.
We are travelling to Crawley Rugby club
U15's will play East Grinstead & London Irish
U18's will play East Grinstead.
We need to be at East Grinstead by 12.30 LATEST
PLEASE CONFIRM YOUR AVAILABILITY.
Crawley Rugby Club
Willoughby Fields
Highfield Ave
Crawley
Surrey
Please arrive in your kit, changing will be sparse as the minis will be finishing when we arrive.
All players to wear No1's after the game
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