Harrogate played their first game of the season at home on Sunday 11th September, excited to get started and put their summer training to the test against new comers Bradford Salem.

With a shaky start from Harrogate they soon seemed to find their feet with Centre, Caroline Cockshott, breaking through Bradford’s defensive line and quickly scoring a try, unfortunately no conversion but Harrogate were ahead by 5.

Harrogate quickly reset once again pushing up to Bradford which lead to a second try from quick footed Winger, Leah Birkin, again no conversion followed but the score was now 10-0

It was clear that Harrogate had control of the game in all areas, but Bradford continued to pressure the home team which resulted in Bradford’s first try. No conversion brought the score to 10-5 in Harrogate’s favour.

Harrogate was able to show their strong teamwork with the forwards breaking through Bradford’s defensive line which led to a first try for Winger, Sarah-Jayne Pritchard. Bradford started to struggle which resulted in a couple of their players coming off due to injury and Harrogate lending two of their subs to keep the game going.

The second half started strong again for the home team which resulted in a second try for Leah Birkin and also new player Chantelle Keller who ran more than half of the pitch for her first ever try for Harrogate bring the score to 25-5.

Bradford showed some strength in the scrum proving stronger than before the half time whistle, but Harrogate continued to be quick off the mark and managed to break for the try line once more with two more try’s by speedy Megan Kenyon pushing the the score to 35-5.

Play became fiery from both sides as both teams were warned about their high tackles. Harrogate, full of confidence wanted more which led to the final try of the game coming from Centre, Evie Jackson; it was a firm win for the home team with the score ending on 40-5.

Despite Harrogate’s dominance both team should be proud of how well they played. Harrogate were able to show how much they had grown as a team over the summer especially by the continued lending of their own players making enjoyment throughout the game for both sides and a true demonstration of the Rugby Core Values.

Women of the match were awarded to Flanker Emma Gentry for her quick reactions during the breakdowns and Leah Birkin for those speedy little feet.

Harrogate Ladies would like to thank Andrew Jackson from Shutter42 for the game photographs and Will Payne-Grant from WPG Sport Therapy for being the team physiotherapist.

Harrogate Ladies next face local team York RI at home, kick off at 14:45 on Sunday 18th September