Dartfordians U16 Girls showed determination, adaptability and tremendous team spirit in their second league game of the season against Dartford Valley.

With injuries affecting availability and a busy season leaving little scope to rearrange, Dartfordians took on the fixture under Game On rules. The teams played 12-a-side for the full 70 minutes. With just two substitutes, Dartfordians faced a tough challenge against a Dartford Valley squad with greater depth. The girls’ bravery, adaptability and determination to compete for one another shone through.

Dartford Valley made a fast start, building a 21–0 lead. Dartfordians responded with ten minutes of sustained pressure in the opposition’s half but could not turn that pressure into points.Despite another Dartford Valley try, the girls kept working, with tries from Lily-Mai P and Freya getting us on the scoreboard. Further opposition scores left Dartfordians trailing 38–10 at half-time.

The second half response showed exactly what this group is about . Sophie, standing in as captain for Mollie, led by example with a try after an early opposition score. Olivia then crossed, with Elizabeth converting both tries to help build momentum.

Although Dartford Valley pulled away again, Dartfordians kept their heads high and fought to the final whistle. Olivia completed her hat-trick with two late tries, both converted by Elizabeth, taking our total to 38. The girls’ strong finish was a real credit to their fitness, determination and belief in one another.

Across the squad, players stepped into unfamiliar roles to support their teammates. A special mention goes to Lucy, Aimee and Lily May for moving from the forwards into the backs. Aimee’s speed to the ruck stood out, while Sophie’s leadership set the tone and Ellie worked tirelessly throughout, piling up the tackles. Anna’s brilliantly timed snatch provided another memorable moment.

Back of the Match went to Liv, whose three tries helped drive the Dartfordians response. Lily May O earned her third Forward of the Match award of the season, continuing her impressive run of performances.

There is plenty to build on from a performance full of grit, unity and commitment. These girls kept working for one another throughout the full 70 minutes and finished strongly.

Thank you to Dartford Valley for the game, and to our coaches and supporters for their encouragement throughout. We look forward to meeting Dartford Valley again on 6 December.

We now have a week off and the chance to rest, recover and hopefully return refreshed for our next big challenge against Tonbridge Judds on 1 November.