Just a piece about a memorable game for the u15s against Houghton in the County Cup. The date was 19-2-20, the girls had to meet at 1 o’clock; I got myself there early to meet the girls that were playing. Gemma was ready to give them their shirts as they arrived, as they girls gathered one by one I could feel the excitement in their attitude that they were looking forward to the game. Everyone changed and down to warm up, we are now ready for the challenge. I thought Houghton are a decent side and my worry was the front row. Off we go even though we had an experienced back line that wasn’t of great concern, five minutes into the game a scrum formed then my fear came Houghton pushed us back and went though us to score a try. Waiting for the conversion i had a quick word to the girls, after that something clicked our captain Amy started to lead and it showed on everyone. The whole team lifted with the forwards dominating and the backs were attacking and defending brilliant. It was at that point my fear for the front row disappeared these girls were now playing without fear. To sum up the game which we lost by one score was the best committed and team game for girls of that age I’ve witnessed all the girls left nothing on the pitch all of them gave everything. When the final whistle went I could see and feel their disappointment after the effort they all put in and it made me proud to be part of that team. It was great after the game to see the girls congratulate the other team and see the smiles and laughter again, brilliant.

Bill Coatsworth