Today’s game against Solihull Vixens gave the U14s a chance to shake off the winter and return to rugby. With three of our players joining the Vixens for each of the three periods of play, it gave us a chance to try players in different positions and develop our strength in depth. The conditions were wet, and the ball was greasy throughout. The ground was soft which meant that they had to work extra hard to get around the pitch.

The first period was fast-paced, and the girls had to work hard in both attack and defence. The Vixens pressed hard and brought the game to us, but we ended the first period 12-0 ahead. The second period saw the game open up a little more and as the girls got used to the slippery ball, the handling errors decreased, and the ball was passed around well. They attacked both narrow channels and drew defenders in before spreading wide to exploit the space. The footwork was excellent today and forwards demonstrated their growing confidence in pods with the tip ball being seen on multiple occasions to great effect. The backs did well to hit gaps in the defence and where they could, they used their strike moves to put points on the board. After 30 minutes the score was 26-0.

The final period saw us absorb some stronger attack from Vixens as our energy began to wane. We didn’t allow our heads to drop when the defence was needed. The girls went toe to toe and met the Vixens with controlled aggression and some big hits. The courage and determination around the breakdown was excellent today and ball was secured more often than not, despite the strong counter-rucking. The final score of 31-10 represented a great return to the pitch after the winter break. With confirmation this week that we are in the County Cup Final, every minute on the grass will be essential to give ourselves the best chance of victory. Well done to Amelia Tabberer for being nominated as player of the match.

Thanks to Solihull Vixens for a great afternoon of rugby. Thank you again to our parents’ group for bringing the girls to Solihull for the match and supporting them so well.