Bassetlaw Bulldogs U15s 20 – 28 Silsden Stormettes U15s
The Stormettes overcame an early Saturday morning start and a determined Bassetlaw Bulldogs side to secure a hard-fought 28-20 victory after making the long trip across the Pennines.
With the girls setting off at 7:30am for a 10:00am meet up, they knew they would need to be at their best against a Bassetlaw side that has improved dramatically in recent weeks. Although the Bulldogs currently sit at the bottom of the table and are new to the division this season, it quickly became clear that this was a very different team to the one many sides have faced earlier in the year.
Bassetlaw showed their intentions from the opening whistle, completing a strong first set before crossing in the corner to take an early 4-0 lead.
The Stormettes responded immediately. Following a great passage of play, Harriet powered over for an excellent try to level the scores. Silsden then began to find their rhythm and soon took the lead when Nell crashed over from close range, demonstrating the strength and determination that make her such an important part of the side.
Straight from the restart, Ev gathered the ball, slipped into top gear and danced her way around the oncoming defenders to score a magnificent full-length try. Moments later, Jess nearly produced a similar effort herself, racing the length of the field only to be held up on the line by some outstanding Bassetlaw defence. The hard work had already been done, however, and from the resulting pressure Bo powered over from short range to extend Silsden’s advantage.
At half-time, the Stormettes held a deserved 16-4 lead.
The second half began much like the first, but this time it was Bassetlaw who came flying out of the blocks. Two quick tries in succession reduced the deficit to just four points at 16-12 and suddenly set up a tense contest.
This wasn’t the Bassetlaw side many had expected. The hard work being put in by their coaches and players is clearly paying dividends, and they look set to become a force to be reckoned with as the season progresses.
Thankfully, the Stormettes dug deep and responded. Harriet grabbed her second try of the afternoon before Daisy, who had been struggling with an injury throughout the game, stepped up to land a superb conversion.
Bassetlaw continued to battle and asked plenty of questions of the Silsden defence, but what followed was arguably the move of the match. Bell broke through from deep inside her own 20 metres and carried the ball well beyond halfway, putting Bassetlaw firmly on the back foot. The Stormettes then produced some of their best rugby of the season, moving the ball from one wing to the other with slick passing and excellent support play. The move culminated in Kiesse finishing brilliantly in the corner.
It was a fantastic team try and a real showcase of what this young side is capable of when everything clicks into place. Daisy once again showed great composure to add the extras and give the Stormettes some valuable breathing space.
However, Silsden relaxed slightly and Bassetlaw once again proved why they are becoming serious competitors in this league. The home side piled on the pressure and crossed for two further tries, ensuring a nervy finish, but the Stormettes held firm to secure a deserved 28-20 victory.
There were plenty of lessons to take from the game and the coaching team have already identified several key areas to work on ahead of the next fixture.
Special mention must go to Maisie and India , who filled in across multiple positions due to injuries within the squad. Masies outstanding performance earned her Coaches’ Player, Parents’ Player and Opposition Player of the Match awards – a thoroughly deserved clean sweep.
Harriet collected the Captain’s Award after scoring two tries and producing another excellent defensive display.
The girls now enjoy a week off before returning to training as preparations begin for a local derby clash against rivals West Craven Warriors.
