With a refresh to the coaching team and under new leadership, the dreaded injuries, work and travel commitments had us down to 14 players. But as our first league game, the team spirit was high and we were undeterred.
Stuart Aimer, Director of Rugby and Women’s Head Coach, tasked the team to run hard, dominate the tackle and play to our strengths. Adapting to the situation presented, namely a squad of 21, we rose to the challenge, utilising the structures and techniques from pre-season to bring a physical and intelligent game.
With a Thamesians try early on, the Vixens were quick to equalise, which only added to our fire and desire. With another try for Thamesians, we were settling quickly in attack but needed to apply some much-needed pressure in defence. With a third try and conversion for Thamesians, the Vixens made it over our try line again. As we headed into the second half, we knew the game was ours if we played to our strengths. The Vixens worked hard to get through us and scored their third try. With tenacity and everything to play for, Thamesians comfortably won the ball back in rucks, mauls and line outs, scoring two more team tries in the second half for a bonus point win.
The forwards led by Courteney Ellis were formidable. Delivering phenomenal scrums, they had enough power to drop both flankers whilst retaining our ball and causing utter destruction to the Vixens.
With the forwards working hard across the pitch, the backs were in control and with Vice Captain Hannah Jacques overseeing things as fullback, they delivered great passes, supported rucks and effortlessly shifted the ball to create space and options.
Everyone rose to the challenge of playing a little out of position to provide cover, and worked that little bit harder to deliver over and above for each other. Led by Captain Aminah Olaniyan and echoed by all, the team's success was built on passion and commitment to the game and to Thamesians.
17-29
Forward of the match: Jess Warrior
Back of the match: Isobel Leikis
