Harrogate Ladies loss against York RI

The match begun with an uncertain start, with neither team looking stronger than the other however, after a few scrums going Yorks way, York scored the first try of the game. Harrogate came back strong and continued to fight back, overturning multiple rucks and regaining possession of the ball, despite this, York scored their second try of the match, this time with a conversion.

After being 12-0 down, Harrogate began to look frantic. This was reflected in the scrums that continued to go wrong due to an inexperienced second row. Due to Harrogate’s hectic playing, they continued to let another York try past this time without a conversion.

After a stern team talk, Harrogate stepped onto the pitch looking determined and collected. After a stolen ball from a Harrogate player, the ball was passed down the line and Megan Kenyon scored the first and only Harrogate try of the game, unfortunately without a conversion.

After half time, York came back with two tries in quick concession, one with a conversion and the other without. Harrogate seemed anxious again after half time and struggled to get into the game, leading to a few high tackles and penalties from both sides. The sixth York try was a result of a penalty being kicked towards the Harrogate side and a Harrogate player dropping the ball and it being received by York then placed over the try line followed by a conversion. Despite their best efforts, Harrogate struggled to defend two more tries, scored by York as both teams begun to tire.

As the final play was announced, the winger ran down the wing followed by Harrogate’s full back and hooker. Despite their best efforts, they failed to catch her and as she placed the ball over the try line, the final whilst was blown however, a knock on had taken place as she received the ball and so the try was disallowed.

Harrogate should not be deterred by the result, not only was it a massive improvement upon the previous result against York RI, but they also put out a great performance. The forward of the match was Josie Riggs and the back of the match was Ailish Clear.

Harrogate will be playing away against Morpeth Ladies on the 2nd October.

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.