WIN FOR WITHAM BUT WHAT A BATTLE

Written by Dawn Stevens

Dartfordians Women welcomed Witham Women for the second time this season. It was a windy start and from the off Witham wanted Dartfordians to know that this was going to be a tough game.

Witham played well with a series of rucks, passes and disciplined game play which resulted in them getting on the scoreboard early doors. Witham took a quick conversion and the score was at 0-7 within 7 minutes of play.

Witham dominated the first 20 minutes of the match with rapid runners and excellent ball play but Dartfordians went on the attack and managed to make it down to the Witham’s five-meter line after a series of penalties in our favour. Dartfordians put in good strong hits but Witham’s defence was just too strong for us to go over the line.

More of Witham’s fast legs and unfortunately, they managed to find space to score another two tries and a conversion. The last 10 minutes of the first half and Dartfordians were on the attack and showing Witham what we are capable of. Finally with the pressure on, Becca found space and went for over for a try! Half time score 5-19.

Encouraging and enthusiastic words from Jenna, Georgia and Coach Vicky at half time with some positive position advice from Ellie, Dartfordians were ready to go again.

Five minutes into the second half, Witham made great ground from outside their 22 and one of their players went on her own storming towards our try line, brilliantly stopped with a top tackle by Ciara meant we denied the visitors a further try.

Continuing the attack with great pods of play by the forwards and quick balls out to the backs was great to watch but also put Witham under pressure. Pick and goes were the way forward for Darts with Jenna going over for our second try. A cracking conversion by Sarah took the score to 12-19.

A lot of play for the next 15 minutes centered around the middle of the field with both sides holding their own and great rugby was demonstrated by both sides. Unfortunately, Darts defence line broke and Witham managed to get past to score another try.
Whilst we did not win, it was recognized by the coaches, team and our supporters that the performance was the best so far this season.

Final Score 12-29

Next match 25th February, at home against Bexley.