A glorious day for rugby on Saturday just gone, and our Women's 1st XV were very happy to be on the top pitch of Stradbrook for what was to be a tough clash with local neighbours Old Belvo. Confidence was high from our Women heading into the fixture, as despite not clicking the final pieces of the puzzle together against Railway the week previous, the key elements were all there - just needed the finishing touches.
Things however did not start according to plan, as despite massive possession and territory wins, Rock were unable to capitalise and found themselves on the wrong side of two quick sucker punches, and Belvo led 0-14 within the opening 30 mins. Not to be deterred, the women kept chipping away and were rewarded on the stroke of half time when hooker Lynn Koelman crashed over after a tirade of pressure and a subsequent yellow card against the visitors.
Half time 7-14.
The second half swung back and forth and Rock were still struggling to break a stubborn Belvo down. We had to sustain some pressure in our own 22 and then wait until the last 5 mins to return the two earlier punches with two of our own. A great lineout drive allowed outhalf Lisa Mullen to then pull the trigger on a cross field kick, meant for Maggie Boylan but the wicked bounce eluded her and popped back up into the of fullback Andi Murphy who accepted the gift with open arms. 12-14 the score now stood but only about 2 minutes on the clock.
Strength and Conditioning coach Rob Elliott's hard work with the women paid off as Rock were able to turn the screw once more for one last push. Another great team drive into the opposite half saw breaks from Player of the Match Catherine Martin, hooker Lynn Koelman which had the defence pulled apart - teeing up Andi Murphy to dance her way through from about 30m out. Huge relief but nothing more than out Women deserved as they dominated for much of the game. Lisa Mullen calmly slotted the extra 2 from our wide.
Full time score 19-14.
Next up, is another home match this Thursday at 8pm where we host Wicklow RFC in a rescheduled round 15 clash.
All photographs provided by John Crothers/ JC Sports Photography.
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