Due to the progression and expansion of the Ladies section at Harrogate Rugby Club, for the first season ever it has been possible to field two teams simultaneously.

The introduction of a development side, the Harrogate Hens, allows for new and returning players to enjoy the sport alongside the Ladies first team, who are competing in the Championship North 2. The team are an exciting development for both the club and women’s sport in Harrogate.

It was the first run out as a squad for the Hens and for the first 10 minutes local visitors, Northallerton were definitely on the front foot. This didn’t last long however, as youngster Niaimh Frost started to dictate play from 9; with great tackling, footwork and passing.

Harrogate were beginning to get comfortable in Northallerton’s half of the pitch, playing the phases. The home side got a bit too comfortable allowing Northallerton to suddenly break.

The opposing player had some speed but not enough for Winger, Roisin McCulloch who stopped her short with a stunning tackle.

The ball was won from the following breakdown then shipped to Captain, Kirstie Plummer who powers through score the first try on the 15 minute mark. Fullback, Ailish Clear converts to add the extra 2 points.

The second score set in just 5 minutes later, after some perfectly placed passes across the Harrogate backline saw Jess Deacy touchdown to make it 12 - 0.

Next, it was time for the forwards to get involved, with Props, Chrissy Pratt and Ciara Mullane putting in some hits and hard work.

A few breakdowns later the ball fell into the hands of Clear who then made a run from the halfway line, showing off her pace whilst dancing through their defence. The Fullback boots over the extras, 19 - 0.

With the last quarter to go, Natasha Duggan finally makes her mark on the scoreboard after a succession of strong runs. She scored the final try for Harrogate to make it 24 - 0.

With a number of substitutions made Harrogate lost a bit of stability, allowing Northallerton to score with 10 minutes on the clock.

A try had been on the cards for the visitors however, after strong play and perseverance. They dominated the remainder of the match, but with Harrogate holding the defence it was too little too late.