Great win for depleted U18 girls

Darts U18 girls made the trip up the M1 to play Harpenden in what were the first fixtures between the two clubs. It was perfect day for rugby and the team readied itself for a tough match. The girls started well and put together some good phase play straight from the kick off with Tiernet Jaz and both Emilys taking the ball on strongly and eventually it was Lizzie who broke through with a strong run and score the opening try , Ewa converted. Darts were also strong in defence when Harpenden moved the ball really well from side to side. A good kick from Ewa was well chased and it liked like another score but an infringement gave away a penalty and the home side cleared the lines. Another good attack but the ball was turned over and a breakaway try put the hosts back in the game. Darts were using their pods really well with Pelumi and Poppy offering themselves up to take the ball on. In defence both Nadia and Rhea playing their first full games were putting in some great tackles. Evie playing in the centre was linking really well with Lizzie but after a strong run which took her close to the line but she was unfortunately injured resulting in her being taken to hospital but she is now home suffering from strained back muscles.. This didn't deter Darts and after some good leadership from Lola the ball found Lizzie who again went over. The only downside in the visitors game was at ruck time when they were guilty of allowing Harpenden to steal the ball. The home team were particularly good at turning limited opportunities into points and another breakaway closed the gap again.
Having moved pitches Darts went about their work and Karis now playing in the backs was taking the ball on in cenrefield drawing in defenders and the Darts game plan of taken the ball through a few forward phases before moving the ball wide was working. Robyn playing for the first time at scrum half was doing particularly well and kept a good supply of ball going for the backs and when after a scrum Emily D picked the ball up and set up a ruck and the ball was moved to Lizzie who cut a great line to score another try. It was great to see Tierney ,Emily A both tackling hard as well as doing the hard yards with ball in hand and Jaz was starting to cause havoc taking defenders with her on her trademark runs. A great run by Rhea saw her drive on 20 metres and going over the line but the referee couldnt see a grounding however the ball was moved to Lola who crashed over Good tackles again by Nadia and a try saving one from Lola kept the momentum with Darts. The Darts defence was excellent throughout and this forced the home side to kick for position and when the ball wasn't controlled a good chase forced Darts to concede a penalty which was taken quickly and thsi sharpness gave the home side another try. Darts went back on the offensive but tiredness was beginning to set in and a string of penalties allowed Harpenden to move the ball wide while Darts were disorganised and a great try was the result.
This was a great match and the hospitality from Harpenden was excellent and we look forward to them coming to Bourne Rd later in the season. The team played really well and deserved their win but it was a great effort from the hosts who could have easily won it. With players out of position , Rhea and Nadia playing their first full game and Poppy back after injury the team spirit was incredible and after the match the players gave the Player of the Match award to Robyn who has not only just returned from injury but was playing in a totally new position. She was composed and a great link berween the forwards and backs.