Hens Come Back Against Driffield To Maintain Unbeaten Run

The Hens battled tough conditions and strong opposition to come away 31 - 19 winners.

The Hens took flight within 3 minutes of kick off, as full back Ailish Clear seized on a loose Driffield kick, running from half way tight against the sideline to round the Driffield defence to touch down and convert.

Harrogate's hopes of an easy tie were undone as Driffield's strong forward play saw them dominate in the scrums, equalising with a try of their own after immense pressure on the Harrogate line at 11 minutes, again converting despite strong winds to tie the score at 7 all.

Driffield's pressure continued, before Harrogate's backs broke to make up precious ground, eventually leading to a try from prop Chrissy Pratt midway through the first half.

Numerous breakdowns and penalties followed with possession continiously changing hands, before Clear touched down for her second of the afternoon out wide to give Harrogate some much needed breathing space.

Half time, 17 - 7.

The second half saw Driffield come out with fresh motivation, forcing multiple mistakes from Harrogate's defence leading to 2 yellow cards for a high tackle and hands in the ruck respectively. With Harrogate's numbers dwindling for a combined 20 minutes of the second half, Driffield took advantage, scoring 2 tries in the space of 10 minutes to take the score to 19 - 17 to the home team.

With time grinding down, Harrogate were in need of fresh legs, and they came in the form of sin binned player Caroline Cockshott, who's quick thinking and strong drive saw her catch Driffield's defence off guard, touching down brilliantly with 5 minutes remaining. Ailish Clear made sure to add to the celebrations, kicking over to make the score 24 - 19.

Despite Driffield's best efforts, Harrogate had the wind in their sails and had time for one more score, as Olivia Almond wrong footed a high Driffield defence at the half way line, running the rest herself to score between the sticks. Clear converted again to add extra shine to the final score line - 31 - 19.