York 5
Lancaster 17
LUWRUFC 7s B team opened Lancaster rugby account with a steady 17-5 victory over York B’s. Two first half tries from Charlotte Neal – one of which was converted by team captain Catriona Haye – saw Lancaster go into the break 12-0, with York looking shaky in the face of some thunderous Lancaster defence.
The second half saw York begin to open up, and Lancaster found themselves tested across the field defensively. Some strong running from York was haulted only by the stalwart commitment of Lancaster. Earlier in the week, VP Activities, Liz Ashworth, had sent out a plea for all supporters and teams of the Red Rose to take the fight to York on their own turf. As red shirted supporters continued to flood off the coaches, this was an early opportunity for Ashworth to rally her troops with an exemplary performance.
Despite Lancaster’s dogged defence, York managed to sneak a try round the blindside of the breakdown, bringing the score to a far less comfortable 5-12. However, Lancaster pulled away again in immediate reply, with a well worked try. York managed a final foray into Lancaster’s 22, but the ever reliable Ashworth was there to bundle the York wing into touch; the last act of the game. There were tremendous efforts and performances from all the team; Catriona Haye led with example from the front, whilst Charlotte Neal’s brace of tries were a fine example of team work and individual finishing. Special mention must go to Ashworth; her work at the breakdown, alongside a fantastic tackling display, was the perfect start to a weekend which could still see the Red Rose unhorse their Yorkshire rivals.
Team Sheet:
Kitty Stearne; Catriona Hay; Liz Ashworth; Emma Prior; Charlotte Neal; Rhiannon Metcalfe; Lorna Wickings
Subs: Lucy Duffy; Philli McCormick
