After a long wait, the women’s team were keen to get back on the pitch on Sunday. A home game against Uckfield saw two debuts for the women’s team - Millie, who has joined us from the girls team, and Sophie, new to the club and raring to go. Unfortunately, Uckfield arrived with only 13 players. But in the spirit of rugby, two EG players were happy to get some game time by playing for the opposition. Vicky T and Kirsty, back from injury, got ready to face up against the EG women.

Building on the previous games performance, EG were determined to make a good start. Lots of fast balls and powerful lines from key ball carriers in the forwards, saw ground made very quickly. And it didn’t take long before the women pleased the crowd with a cracking try from Vicky P, who was ready on the wing for the ball to make it across the pitch.

Uckfield were determined to get some points on the board, helped by an in-form Kirsty, who made some excellent tackles and great lines to keep the game exciting.

With a bit of back and forth down the pitch, it eventually ended up down the right end for EG. Debut player Sophie made some excellent runs to gain ground, and with the forward pack ready to pounce, another try was scored by Emily for EG. The game ploughed on and Uckfield made some ground. With a lineout on the 5 meter line, EG were ready to compete. But a great play from Uckfield saw them score a try, by none other than Kirsty, her first try in a rugby match.

The second half was just as close and tense. Some great runs from Steph, Millie and Sophie saw ground made at important moments. Ruby as full back was always there to support and also ran some great lines. Emilia was everywhere on the pitch from beginning to end, making some cracking tackles and generally getting in the way of Uckfield’s advances. An advance by Hobbit, teamed up with Sophie on the wing saw EG come close to another try, which was held up by Uckfield. This would happen again, until eventually Ella came soaring through to get one over the line and on the ground for EG.

Uckfield did not let up on their attack and this gained them another try. With the score so close, Uckfield were determined to get another try to equalise the score. With only a minute left, and an Uckfield lineout, EG were able to win back possession of the ball, which left Hobbit to kick the ball out when the clock was in the red. What a battle it was on the pitch. Whilst EG came away with the win, it was women’s rugby that won the day. The values of the game were upheld throughout and the sportsmanship shown by Vicky T and Kirsty who played the full 80 minutes for Uckfield, meant that all got to play and enjoy a good game of rugby. Everyone came away smiling and it was a good day for rugby.

Forward of the Match - Ella
Back of the Match - Hobbit
Player of the Match - Lynne