Penryn Ladies experienced their toughest match to date when they travelled to North Bristol with only 14 players to take on a side with their sights on promotion. The visitors, with two players taking to the rugby field for the very first time, and several other players with limited experience or out of position, were out classed in terms of rugby skill by a very well drilled and talented side but they certainly weren’t out done in terms of heart and commitment. Several times Penryn got their attack going, with forwards and backs interchanging well, and worked the ball to within metres of the try line, only to be stopped short by the powerful Bristol defence, who managed to turn every opportunity into a try, despite some crunching tackles from the Penryn defence.
Despite not making it over the try line, Penryn Ladies, refused to give up until the final whistle and can still take many positives away despite the score line. The new players gained valuable match experiences and raised their confidence in contact situations, while experienced players can take heart from their attitude, scrum techniques (almost winning one against the head despite having an entire pack that had never played or trained together in that formation), team spirit and physicality, all of which can be channelled into next week’s match.
Penryn Ladies will come back harder and even more determined after this tough battle as they look to take on old rivals Devonport Services, who came up to this league with them this season, at home next Sunday. Down but certainly not out (currently still sitting fourth in the table) Penryn Ladies will bounce back as one to show their true potential in this competitive league. With the potential shown from the new players added to the existing talent and experience, there are exciting times to come from this spirited, united, dedicated Penryn Ladies team.
Match report: Louise Dennis
